The thyroid gland, located in the neck area, is responsible for regulating a lot of bodily functions, including metabolism, energy levels, and body temperature.

A properly functioning thyroid gland is essential for maintaining good health, and if it’s not functioning correctly, it can lead to a host of health problems.

There are a few signs and symptoms that may indicate that your thyroid is not functioning properly. Here are some of the most common symptoms:.

Unexplained Weight Gain or Loss

If you are experiencing unexplained weight gain or loss, it could be due to an underactive or overactive thyroid gland.

Hypothyroidism, or an underactive thyroid, can lead to weight gain, while hyperthyroidism, or an overactive thyroid, can lead to weight loss.

Fatigue and Lack of Energy

Feeling tired and sluggish all the time, even after a good night’s sleep, can be a sign of an underactive thyroid gland. Hypothyroidism can lead to fatigue, depression, and difficulty concentrating.

Hyperthyroidism, on the other hand, can cause anxiety and restlessness.

Hair Loss and Brittle Nails

The thyroid gland plays a role in the growth and maintenance of hair and nails. If your thyroid gland is not functioning properly, it could lead to hair loss, dry and brittle nails, and skin problems.

Irregular Menstrual Cycles

If you are a woman and experiencing irregular menstrual cycles, it could be a sign of an underactive thyroid. Hypothyroidism can lead to heavy periods, lighter than usual periods, or irregular periods.

Increased Sensitivity to Cold or Heat

If you find that you are always cold or always hot, it could be due to thyroid problems. A thyroid hormone imbalance can lead to intolerance to cold or heat.

Muscle and Joint Pain, and Weakness

Hypothyroidism can lead to aches and pains in the muscles and joints, as well as weakness. Hyperthyroidism can cause muscle weakness as well.

Poor Memory and Concentration

If you find yourself forgetting things or have difficulty concentrating, it could be due to an underactive thyroid gland. Hypothyroidism can lead to memory and concentration problems.

Elevated Cholesterol Levels

If your cholesterol levels are high, it could be due to hypothyroidism. An underactive thyroid can lead to elevated levels of LDL cholesterol, which is the “bad” cholesterol.

Difficulty Losing Weight

If you are trying to lose weight but find it difficult, it could be due to an underactive thyroid gland. Hypothyroidism can slow down your metabolism, making it harder to lose weight.

Assessment for Thyroid Problems

If you are experiencing any of the above symptoms, it’s important to see your doctor for a proper evaluation. Your doctor may order a blood test to check your thyroid hormone levels.

However, you can also do a simple self-assessment to help determine if your thyroid gland is functioning properly. Here are some questions to ask yourself:.

Do I feel tired and sluggish all the time?

If you are constantly tired, even after getting enough sleep, it could be a sign of an underactive thyroid gland.

Do I feel overly anxious or restless?

If you find yourself feeling anxious or restless, it could be a sign of an overactive thyroid gland.

Do I have unexplained weight gain or loss?

If you have gained or lost weight without changing your diet or exercise habits, it could be due to a thyroid hormone imbalance.

Do I have dry skin or hair loss?

Dry skin or hair loss could be a sign of a thyroid hormone imbalance.

Do I feel cold or hot all the time?

Feeling cold or hot all the time can be a sign of thyroid problems.

Do I have irregular menstrual cycles?

If you are a woman and have irregular menstrual cycles, it could be due to an underactive thyroid gland.

Do I have muscle and joint pain or weakness?

Muscle and joint pain or weakness could be a sign of thyroid problems.

Do I have difficulty concentrating or poor memory?

If you are experiencing concentration problems or poor memory, it could be due to an underactive thyroid gland.

Do I have elevated cholesterol levels?

High cholesterol levels could be a sign of an underactive thyroid gland.

Do I have difficulty losing weight?

If you find it difficult to lose weight, even with diet and exercise, it could be due to an underactive thyroid gland.

Results

If you answered “yes” to some or all of the above questions, it could indicate that your thyroid gland is not functioning properly.

Remember, this self-assessment is not a substitute for a proper evaluation by a doctor, so it’s important to schedule an appointment with your healthcare provider to discuss your symptoms.