5 Common Signs of a Thyroid Disorder

Sometimes, the most minor things can have the most significant impact. That’s especially true when you consider your thyroid gland. 

This small, butterfly-shaped gland in the front of your neck is not the most prominent part of your anatomy, but it plays a major role in your well-being. 

Hormones produced by the thyroid gland help regulate your metabolism, support bone health through calcium production, spur brain development, and control muscle contractions — just to name a few. 

Unfortunately, your thyroid can malfunction and overproduce hormones (hyperthyroidism) or underproduce hormones (hypothyroidism — the most common thyroid disorder). 

Either way, knowing the warning signs of a thyroid disorder is crucial. Our team at Leading MDs can evaluate your hormone levels and start you on a treatment plan to restore balance. 

This Thyroid Awareness Month, we’re exploring some of the most common warning signs of a rogue thyroid so you can get the help you need. 

1. Problems with your weight

Many people are unhappy with their weight, but there comes a point where fluctuations in the numbers on the scale point to an underlying health problem. 

For instance, if your body doesn’t produce enough thyroid hormones, you might unexpectedly gain weight and struggle to lose it. An overactive thyroid might cause sudden weight loss. 

2. Changes in your energy or mood

It’s common to feel sluggish now and then, but chronic fatigue and mood swings are not typical. Hypothyroidism tends to drag down your energy levels and cause depression; hyperthyroidism can trigger feelings of anxiety and make it difficult to sleep. 

3. Hair loss

Both hyper- and hypothyroidism can cause hair loss. Fortunately, once you’ve replaced your thyroid hormones, you should see that hair grow back. 

4. Sensitivity to hot and cold

One of your thyroid’s most essential responsibilities is regulating your body temperature. An underactive thyroid can make you feel chilly all the time, and the opposite is true for an overactive thyroid. 

5. Changes in heart rate

Your thyroid hormones affect nearly every organ in your body, including your heart. Hypothyroidism can slow down your heart rate, and hyperthyroidism can cause your heart rate to speed up, leading to increased blood pressure and the sensation of a pounding heart or heart palpitations. 

Other symptoms

Thyroid disorders don’t stop there. If you have hypothyroidism, you might notice:

• Dry skin
• Brittle nails
• Numbness and tingling in your hands
• Constipation

Hyperthyroidism can trigger symptoms like:

• Muscle weakness
• Trembling hands
• Vision disturbances
• Diarrhea

Both low and high thyroid levels can also affect your menstrual cycles. 

Should I get checked?

The short answer? Yes, you should have your symptoms evaluated by your Leading MDs provider. 

Thyroid disorders are treatable, starting with a simple blood test to diagnose and medication to correct thyroid levels. Rarely, surgery may be necessary to address the underlying issue.

Don’t spend another day wondering what to do about your symptoms. Call or click to request an evaluation with our specialists. We proudly serve communities in and around Goodyear, Mesa, and Sun City, Arizona.