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8 Silent Signs That Indicate You've Got A Thyroid Disorder

Dr. Uma M

3 Min Read

The signs and symptoms of thyroid disorder can be subtle and silent. The gland which is shaped like a butterfly can certainly sting like a bee. While certain symptoms of thyroid problems can disrupt your life, some of them like tiredness and fluctuations in weight can be hard to associate with the thyroid.

Additionally, certain symptoms of thyroid disorders are common with other health conditions making them confusing. Accurately identifying the symptoms of thyroid can encourage you to seek timely treatment and manage your condition better.

Mentioned below are some of the major silent symptoms of thyroid disorder that you should watch out for.

Fatigue

Fatigue or feeling tired is a symptom that is common to a lot of conditions. However, this is also a sign of hypothyroidism, which is a condition where the thyroid gland doesn’t produce enough hormones leading to feeling chronically fatigued. If you are suffering from hypothyroidism, it can be confirmed with a simple blood test and can be identified as the reason for your terminal tiredness.

Weight Fluctuation

A thyroid disorder changes the body’s metabolism. Hyperthyroidism results in the overproduction of hormones by the thyroid gland resulting in unplanned weight-loss and hypothyroidism results in weight gain.

Change in bowel movement routine

If you experience a sudden change in the frequency of your bowel movement, then it can point towards a thyroid problem. Constipation points towards an underactive thyroid gland, whereas going more than usual is a sign of an overactive gland.

Hair loss and change in texture

While hair loss is a symptom of thyroid problems, other signs of hair trouble that points towards a thyroid issue are changes in hair texture, thinning of strands and hair losing its strength.

Excessive energy and shaking

When suffering from hyperthyroidism, the increased level of hormones in the body speeds up metabolism resulting in excessive energy and feeling hyper. It can even cause heart palpitations when relaxed and can result in shaky hands.

Menstrual irregularities

Menstrual irregularities experienced by women can be a possible indicator of a thyroid disorder. Women suffering from hyperthyroidism often experience irregular or missed periods. On the other hand, hypothyroidism results in more than usual menstrual bleeding.

Sensitivity to temperature changes

Random shifts in body temperature can be a sign of thyroid problems. Hypothyroidism increases the sensitivity to cold so you feel cold when room temperatures are normal or more. On the other hand, hyperthyroidism results in an increase in body temperature with room temperature being normal or cold and you might even start sweating without any kind of physical exertion.

This primarily happens due to changes in body metabolism. When the metabolism rate is low, it makes us feel cold, and when it is high it results in us feeling hot and sweating.

Depression and anxiety

The mental problems associated with a thyroid disorder often go unnoticed. Depression is definitely a sign of hypothyroidism if they are accompanied by other symptoms mentioned here. On the other hand, an overactive thyroid gland can result in random episodes of anxiety. You should definitely consult a doctor if you experience mood disturbances along with these other symptoms.

The takeaway

The identification of a thyroid disorder is done via blood tests, where doctors analyze the levels of thyroid hormones in your bloodstream. Being aware of these subtle symptoms can help you seek medical care on time.

Apart from ensuring proper medical care and sticking to the prescribed medications, you can also make changes in your daily lifestyle such as getting adequate exercise and following a thyroid-specific diet to manage these conditions. Thyroid specific diet includes having iodized salt, avoiding cabbage, cauliflower, broccoli and soya in the diet. It is recommended that you get a thyroid test once every 3 months.

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms for quite a while, it is best that you consult a medical professional. Find the best doctors near you on the MFine app.