The thyroid gland is a small, butterfly-shaped gland located in the neck that produces hormones that regulate metabolism, growth, and other vital bodily functions.

Occasionally, the thyroid may not function properly, which leads to an array of symptoms that may seem unrelated. In this article, we will discuss seven signs that may indicate your thyroid isn’t working properly and what you can do about it.

1. Fatigue and Weakness

Do you constantly feel tired and exhausted, no matter how much sleep you get? This could be a sign of an underactive thyroid, also known as hypothyroidism. This condition slows down your metabolism, leading to a decrease in energy levels.

You may also experience muscle weakness, making it difficult to perform everyday activities. If you experience any of these symptoms, consult with your doctor.

2. Weight Gain or Difficulty Losing Weight

Weight gain or difficulty losing weight can indicate an underactive thyroid. The hormones produced by your thyroid gland play a crucial role in regulating metabolism, which affects how your body burns calories.

If your thyroid isn’t producing enough hormones, your metabolism slows down, which leads to weight gain. If you’re having trouble losing weight despite a healthy diet and regular exercise, it’s worth getting your thyroid levels checked.

3. Mood Swings and Depression

Thyroid hormones are involved in regulating serotonin and dopamine levels in the brain, which are neurotransmitters that affect mood. Therefore, an imbalance in thyroid hormones can lead to mood swings and depression.

If you’re feeling down for an extended period, don’t hesitate to seek professional help.

4. Constipation

Constipation can be a sign of hypothyroidism. The thyroid hormone plays an important role in regulating gut motility, which affects bowel movements. An underactive thyroid can lead to slow digestion and constipation.

If you’re experiencing constipation for more than a few days, it’s worth mentioning it to your doctor.

5. Hair Loss

Thyroid hormones regulate hair growth and the life cycle of hair follicles. Therefore, an imbalance in thyroid hormones can lead to hair loss. If you notice an unusual amount of hair loss or your hair is thinning, consult with your doctor.

6. Irregular Periods

Thyroid hormones also play a role in regulating the menstrual cycle. An underactive thyroid can lead to irregular periods or heavy periods. If you’re experiencing irregular periods, it’s worth getting your thyroid checked.

7. Dry Skin

The thyroid hormone affects the moisture levels in the skin, so an underactive thyroid can lead to dry skin. If you’re experiencing dry skin despite using moisturizing products, it might be worth checking your thyroid levels.

In Conclusion

If you’re experiencing one or more of these symptoms, don’t panic. They may not necessarily indicate a problem with your thyroid, but it’s worth getting your thyroid levels checked to rule out any underlying issues.

Consult with your doctor, and they can conduct blood tests to check your thyroid function. Early detection and proper treatment can prevent complications and help you lead a healthy life.