Symptoms of thyroid problems can be vague and difficult to pinpoint, so it is important to find a doctor as soon as you suspect a problem. The article describes the different symptoms associated with hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism, lists the tests that can help diagnose these conditions and treatment options, and provides information on treatment.
What is a thyroid?
You may have never heard of the thyroid gland before, but it is a key player in your body, regulating everything from metabolism to mood and helping you keep a steady weight. It is located in the front of your neck, just below your Adam’s apple. The thyroid also produces hormones that help regulate your body’s metabolism. When there are too many hormones from the thyroid gland circulating in your system, then the symptoms can come about.
What are the symptoms of low thyroid?
The symptoms of low thyroid may vary depending on the type of low thyroid present. Symptoms may include a general feeling of fatigue and exhaustion, weight gain, thinning hair, constipation, dry skin, abnormal menstrual cycles and mood swings. The symptoms of low thyroid are varied but can include: decreased energy, weight gain or loss, depression, a feeling of cold all the time, constipation, and even hair loss. These symptoms may be indicative of a lack of iodine in the diet or may indicate an underlying autoimmune disorder that is causing inflammation throughout the body.
Causes of low thyroid
Thyroid problems can be diagnosed by the low production of thyroid hormones, the presence of hyperthyroidism, or failure to produce adequate hormone levels. The most common causes are Hashimoto’s disease, Grave’s disease, and autoimmune disorders that cause a decrease in thyroid hormone output. Other factors that can cause this condition include obesity and aging as well as certain medications like chemotherapy and radiation therapy.
How to diagnose low thyroid
You can test your thyroid hormones by taking a saliva sample at home. If you are taking the test, it is important to be conscious of how much time has passed since your last meal because this can affect the results. If you feel tired, have a dry mouth, constipation, weight gain, or thinning hair that are all symptoms of low thyroid function, see a doctor for an accurate diagnosis. Be careful though and don’t self-diagnose a low thyroid issue. A thyroid issue can be detrimental if left untreated so see your doctor to get the proper treatment.
Treatments for low thyroid
Low thyroid can be the result of a number of different causes. The most common cause is Hashimoto’s disease, which is an autoimmune condition where the body attacks itself and destroys the thyroid gland.
Other causes include Graves’ disease, pituitary tumors, and autoantibodies.
The treatments for low thyroid are varied depending on the type of disease. It’s important to find out if you are experiencing symptoms of low thyroid. If you have symptoms, it’s a good idea to seek medical treatment. Symptoms can include feeling tired all the time, weight gain despite a healthy diet and exercise, cold hands and feet, depression and irritability, hair loss or thinning, dry skin and trouble losing weight.
Review of best practices
It’s never easy to know when you have a thyroid condition, but we’ll break down the most common symptoms and provide some helpful tips for what to do when you experience them. The thyroid is a small gland located in the front of your neck. This gland produces hormones which regulate a number of bodily functions and affects how your body uses energy. The thyroid also controls how quickly you gain or lose weight. A common thyroid problem, called hypothyroidism, is when the body’s system doesn’t produce enough thyroid hormone as it should. This can cause fatigue, depression, constipation, and insomnia.
Disclaimer
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is limited to general guidelines. If you are experiencing any symptoms that you are concerned may be a symptom of thyroid problems, please consult with your medical professional before beginning any treatment protocols.
