Symptoms of thyroid problems

Thyroid Problems Unraveled

When we talk about thyroid problems, we can be referring to wither hyperthyroidism –overactive thyroid - or hypothyroidism – underactive thyroid. The symptoms of thyroid problems are not symmetrical for all sufferers. Research will reveal completely different sets of symptoms of thyroid gland problems cited by varied sources. If you talk to a cross section of persons who have been diagnosed with thyroid problems, you will see that hardly any of them display a picture perfect match of symptoms of thyroid problems.

It fact, it is not uncommon for your treating doctor to list symptoms of thyroid gland problems that you never experience, and you may have effects not at all mentioned by the same practitioner. One person mentioned that she experienced alopecia, fatigue, depression, heavy frequent menstruation and flaky, dry skin. Another patient reported feelings of nervousness and sudden gain in weight even though her eating habits had not changed.

Because of this, it is no wonder that you can easily become confused and second guess what you physician has told you. Uncertainty as to the status of your health is no doubt scary. After all, your doctor is whom you depend upon to give you crucial advice as your health is for all intents and purposes all you have, and if it seems that he does not know what he is saying because the symptoms of thyroid disease that he has detailed to you are in conflict with your own experience, it is no wonder that you are worried!

Signs and symptoms of thyroid problems

Medical professionals, though, seem to have come to a general consensus as to what the more common symptoms of thyroid disease are. Mentioned here are signs of underactive thyroid:

- Mental and physical tiredness and general over exhaustion
- Feelings of depression and hopelessness
- Trouble concentrating on matter that may be routine, even more so when something out of the ordinary occurs
- Precipitated and unnatural weight gain
- Dry and flaky skin and nails
- Hair loss – alopecia
- Inability of the body to adjust to cold temperatures, with numbness and tingles in the fingertips, toes and the tips of the nose and ears
- Digestive problems – constipation
- Heavier and maybe more frequent menstrual periods
- Instances of miscarriage or even barrenness

Now, let us look at the symptoms of thyroid disease as relates to hyperthyroidism:

- Hyperhydrosis, or excessive sweating, caused by resulting metabolic issues
- Hair is brittle and breaks easily
- Weight loss even though eating habits have remained unchanged
- Light periods, even perhaps missed cycles
- More regular, softer bowel activity
- Inability to sleep and stay asleep
- Panic and anxiety
- Loss of muscular continence, particularly in the thighs and upper arms
- Trembling, sweaty hands
- Increased and inconsistent heart rate

external links
wikipedia: thyroid problems