Thyroid gland is an essential part of our body. It is a small, butterfly-shaped gland located at the base of the neck. This gland produces hormones that regulate metabolism, which is the rate at which the body uses energy.
The thyroid gland also influences other body processes, such as growth and development, temperature regulation, and heart rate. When the thyroid gland is not functioning properly, it can lead to a variety of health problems. Here are 12 indicators that your thyroid is not functioning optimally:.
1. Fatigue
Feeling tired is a common symptom of an underactive thyroid gland. This is because the thyroid gland plays a vital role in regulating energy levels.
When your thyroid gland is not producing enough thyroid hormone, it can lead to persistent fatigue, even if you are getting enough rest.
2. Weight Gain
Unexplained weight gain can be a sign of an underactive thyroid gland. This is because the thyroid hormone plays a crucial role in regulating metabolism.
When your thyroid gland is not producing enough thyroid hormone, it can lead to a slower metabolism, which can make it harder to maintain a healthy weight.
3. Depression
Depression is a common symptom of an underactive thyroid gland. The thyroid gland produces hormones that affect brain chemistry, which can influence mood.
When your thyroid gland is not functioning properly, it can lead to a range of emotional symptoms, including depression.
4. Constipation
Constipation is a common symptom of an underactive thyroid gland. This is because the thyroid hormone helps regulate digestion.
When your thyroid gland is not producing enough thyroid hormone, it can lead to slower digestion, which can result in constipation.
5. Dry Skin
Dry skin is a common symptom of an underactive thyroid gland. The thyroid hormone plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy skin. When your thyroid gland is not functioning properly, it can lead to dry, flaky skin.
6. Hair Loss
Hair loss is a common symptom of an underactive thyroid gland. The thyroid hormone helps regulate hair growth. When your thyroid gland is not producing enough thyroid hormone, it can lead to hair loss.
7. Sensitivity To Cold
Feeling cold all the time is a common symptom of an underactive thyroid gland. The thyroid hormone helps regulate body temperature.
When your thyroid gland is not producing enough thyroid hormone, it can lead to a lower body temperature, which can make you feel cold.
8. Muscle Or Joint Pain
Muscle or joint pain is a common symptom of an underactive thyroid gland. The thyroid hormone helps regulate muscle and bone health. When your thyroid gland is not functioning properly, it can lead to muscle weakness and joint pain.
9. Irregular Menstrual Periods
Irregular menstrual periods can be a sign of an underactive thyroid gland. This is because the thyroid hormone plays a crucial role in regulating the menstrual cycle.
When your thyroid gland is not producing enough thyroid hormone, it can lead to changes in your menstrual cycle.
10. High Cholesterol
High cholesterol can be a sign of an underactive thyroid gland. The thyroid hormone helps regulate metabolism, which can influence cholesterol levels. When your thyroid gland is not functioning properly, it can lead to higher cholesterol levels.
11. Anxiety
Anxiety is a common symptom of an overactive thyroid gland. The thyroid gland produces hormones that affect brain chemistry, which can influence mood. When your thyroid gland is overactive, it can lead to a range of emotional symptoms, including anxiety.
12. Rapid Heartbeat
A rapid heartbeat is a common symptom of an overactive thyroid gland. The thyroid gland produces hormones that affect heart rate. When your thyroid gland is overactive, it can lead to a faster heart rate.
Conclusion
The thyroid gland is an essential part of the body that plays a vital role in regulating metabolism, growth, and development. When the thyroid gland is not functioning properly, it can lead to a range of health problems.
If you are experiencing any of the symptoms listed above, it is essential to talk to your healthcare provider and get your thyroid levels checked.