The thyroid gland plays a vital role in the body as it produces hormones that regulate metabolism, brain development, and many other bodily functions.

When the thyroid gland is not functioning properly, it can lead to various health complications such as weight gain or loss, fatigue, and depression. Here are some signs that your thyroid may not be working properly:.

1. Unexplained Weight Changes

Changes in weight are one of the most common signs of a thyroid issue. If your thyroid gland is overactive, it can result in unintended weight loss, whereas an underactive gland can lead to weight gain.

You might notice that your appetite is different or that you’re eating the same amount of food but putting on weight.

2. Fatigue and Weakness

If you’re getting enough sleep but still feel tired during the day, it could be related to thyroid problems. Weakness and fatigue are common symptoms of hypothyroidism, which is an underactive thyroid.

Hormonal imbalances can also cause muscle weakness, which may make everyday activities more difficult to perform.

3. Changes in Heart Rate

Your heart rate can be affected by your thyroid gland, so changes in your heart rate and rhythm could be a clue that your thyroid is acting up.

Hyperthyroidism may speed up your heart rate or cause palpitations, while hypothyroidism may have the opposite effect, leading to a slower heart rate.

4. Depression and Anxiety

Depression and anxiety can be the result of thyroid issues. Underactive thyroid glands, in particular, can cause depression, but anxiety is also a symptom of hyperthyroidism.

If you’re experiencing anxiety or depression, it is worth scheduling an appointment with your doctor to have your thyroid through assessment.

5. Intolerance to Cold or Heat

If you have an underactive thyroid, your body may have trouble regulating temperature, which may result in feeling cold when others are warm. In contrast, an overactive thyroid may cause you to feel hot or sweat excessively even in colder temperatures.

6. Dry Skin and Thinning Hair

Thyroid dysfunction can affect the condition of your skin and hair. A lack of thyroid hormones can result in dry and flaky skin, especially on the face, and hair that falls out or breaks more easily. Hypothyroidism can also cause brittle nails.

7. Irregular Menstrual Cycle

Thyroid gland dysfunction can manifest in a range of ways for females, including changes in menstruation.

An overactive or underactive thyroid gland might result in irregular and infrequent periods or heavy bleeding, which can take a toll on quality of life. Thyroid disorder can even affect fertility, which makes it vital for women who plan to get pregnant or are struggling with period issues to have their thyroid hormone levels checked.

8. Muscle Stiffness, Joint Pain, and Swelling

An underactive thyroid gland or hypothyroidism can cause joint pain and stiffness, as well as swelling in the joints. Muscle aches and stiffness may be more pronounced in the morning and can affect your mobility.

If you have these symptoms, it’s essential to have your thyroid hormone levels checked by your doctor.

9. Digestive Problems

Thyroid disease can result in constipation, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), bloating, and other signs of stress in the digestive system, which can affect your overall health.

People suffering from hypothyroidism might have reduced motility in the intestine, causing constipation and bloating. If these symptoms persist, especially if combined with other symptoms on this list, it is essential to get tested for thyroid dysfunction.

10. High Cholesterol

If you eat a low-fat, healthy diet and engage in regular exercise, yet still struggle with high cholesterol, it could be due to an underlying thyroid issue.

Hypothyroidism, in particular, can cause high cholesterol levels and increase your risk for cardiovascular disease and other heart conditions. It is essential to have cholesterol levels tested and checked for underlying thyroid disorder.