Hypothyroidism is a condition in which the thyroid gland does not produce enough of certain hormones which can lead to a range of symptoms including fatigue, weight gain, depression and dry skin.

But did you know that there are some signs of hypothyroidism that can go unnoticed, or be easily mistaken for other conditions?.

Let’s take a look at some of the ways hypothyroidism can hide and go unnoticed in your body:.

1. Gradual Weight Gain

Weight gain is a common symptom of hypothyroidism. However, the weight gain can be gradual and may not necessarily be a large amount all at once. In fact, people with mild forms of hypothyroidism may not notice any weight gain at all.

Weight gain can also occur due to other factors such as poor diet, lack of exercise or medications and this can make it harder to identify hypothyroidism as the root cause.

2. Fatigue

Feeling tired is a symptom of many different health conditions, and hypothyroidism is no exception. However, fatigue caused by hypothyroidism can be easily written off as stress, depression or even just a lack of sleep.

People with hypothyroidism often complain of feeling tired even after a full night’s sleep or needing to take naps during the day.

3. Hair Loss

Hair loss is a common symptom of hypothyroidism, but it can also be a symptom of many other health conditions. As a result, people with hypothyroidism may not realize that their hair loss is due to an underactive thyroid.

Hair loss due to hypothyroidism can be gradual and diffuse, meaning it occurs all over the scalp and not just in certain areas.

4. Dry Skin

Dry skin is another symptom of hypothyroidism that may go unnoticed. While dry skin can be caused by a variety of factors, including dehydration and cold weather, it can also be a result of hypothyroidism.

People with hypothyroidism may also experience coarse or thickened skin as well as brittle nails.

5. Constipation

Constipation can be a symptom of hypothyroidism, but it can also be a symptom of a range of other health conditions. This means that people with hypothyroidism may not connect their slow bowel movements to their underactive thyroid.

Hypothyroidism can also cause other digestive symptoms such as bloating and abdominal discomfort.

6. Sensitivity to Cold

People with hypothyroidism may feel cold all the time, even when in normal temperature conditions. This is because hypothyroidism can slow down the body’s metabolic rate and reduce heat production.

However, feeling cold can be a symptom of many other conditions as well.

7. Depression and Anxiety

Depression and anxiety can be symptoms of hypothyroidism, but they can also be a result of a range of other factors such as stress, trauma or life changes.

People with hypothyroidism may experience symptoms such as mood swings, irritability and difficulty concentrating which can often be attributed to other conditions.

8. Muscle Weakness

Hypothyroidism can cause muscle weakness, especially in the legs. This can make it difficult for people with hypothyroidism to exercise or perform activities that require physical strength.

However, muscle weakness can also be caused by a range of other health conditions such as nerve disorders.

9. Elevated Cholesterol Levels

Hypothyroidism can cause cholesterol levels to rise, which can increase the risk of heart disease. However, high cholesterol levels can also be caused by other factors such as genetics and poor diet.

This means that people with hypothyroidism may not always connect their high cholesterol levels to their underactive thyroid.

10. Hoarseness and Snoring

Hoarseness can be a symptom of hypothyroidism, as the condition can cause the vocal cords to thicken. However, hoarseness can also be a symptom of a range of other health conditions such as allergies and infections.

Snoring can also be a sign of hypothyroidism, especially if it is new or has gotten worse over time.

With so many different symptoms that can be attributed to other conditions, it can be difficult to diagnose hypothyroidism. However, if you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to speak with a healthcare professional.

Proper diagnosis and treatment can help manage the symptoms and improve your overall health.

Conclusion

Hypothyroidism can be a difficult condition to diagnose, as many of its symptoms can be attributed to other health issues.

However, it is important to be aware of these undercover signs of a sluggish thyroid to ensure proper treatment and avoid any potential complications.