Thyroid disorders are often overlooked and misdiagnosed because they can cause a wide range of symptoms that mimic other conditions.

The thyroid gland produces hormones that regulate a variety of body functions, including metabolism, heart rate, and body temperature. When the thyroid gland produces too much or too little of these hormones, it can cause a wide range of symptoms that can be difficult to diagnose without proper testing. Here are some common symptoms of thyroid disorders that you should be aware of:.

1. Fatigue and Weakness

One of the most common symptoms of thyroid disorders is fatigue and weakness. If you’re feeling tired all the time, even after getting a good night’s sleep, it could be a sign that your thyroid gland isn’t functioning properly.

This is because the thyroid gland regulates your body’s energy production, and when it isn’t working correctly, you may feel more tired than usual.

2. Weight Changes

Thyroid disorders can also cause changes in your weight.

If you’ve noticed that you’re gaining weight even though you’re not eating more than usual, or if you’re losing weight even though you’re eating more than usual, it could be a sign that your thyroid gland isn’t functioning properly. This is because the thyroid gland regulates your metabolism, and when it isn’t working correctly, it can cause your weight to fluctuate.

3. Mood Changes

Another common symptom of thyroid disorders is mood changes. If you’ve noticed that you’re feeling more anxious or depressed than usual, or if you’re having trouble concentrating, it could be a sign that your thyroid gland isn’t functioning properly.

This is because the thyroid gland regulates your brain function, and when it isn’t working correctly, it can cause changes in your mood and cognitive function.

4. Hair Loss

Thyroid disorders can also cause hair loss. If you’ve noticed that your hair is thinning or falling out more than usual, it could be a sign that your thyroid gland isn’t functioning properly.

This is because the thyroid gland regulates your hair growth cycle, and when it isn’t working correctly, it can cause your hair to fall out.

5. Changes in Heart Rate

Thyroid disorders can also cause changes in your heart rate. If you’ve noticed that your heart is racing or pounding, or if you’re experiencing palpitations, it could be a sign that your thyroid gland isn’t functioning properly.

This is because the thyroid gland regulates your heart rate, and when it isn’t working correctly, it can cause your heart to beat faster or slower than usual.

6. Changes in Body Temperature

Thyroid disorders can also cause changes in your body temperature. If you’ve noticed that you’re feeling cold all the time, or if you’re sweating more than usual, it could be a sign that your thyroid gland isn’t functioning properly.

This is because the thyroid gland regulates your body temperature, and when it isn’t working correctly, it can cause your body to feel too hot or too cold.

7. Dry Skin

Thyroid disorders can also cause dry skin. If you’ve noticed that your skin is dry or itchy, even though you’re using moisturizer, it could be a sign that your thyroid gland isn’t functioning properly.

This is because the thyroid gland regulates your skin’s moisture levels, and when it isn’t working correctly, it can cause your skin to become dry and flaky.

8. Muscle Weakness

Thyroid disorders can also cause muscle weakness.

If you’ve noticed that you’re having trouble lifting things that you used to be able to lift easily, or if you’re having trouble climbing stairs, it could be a sign that your thyroid gland isn’t functioning properly. This is because the thyroid gland regulates your muscle function, and when it isn’t working correctly, it can cause your muscles to become weak.

9. Menstrual Irregularities

Thyroid disorders can also cause menstrual irregularities in women.

If you’ve noticed that your periods are becoming irregular or heavier than usual, or if you’re experiencing more severe PMS symptoms, it could be a sign that your thyroid gland isn’t functioning properly. This is because the thyroid gland regulates your reproductive hormones, and when it isn’t working correctly, it can cause changes in your menstrual cycle.

10. Swelling in the Neck

If you’ve noticed swelling in your neck, it could be a sign of a thyroid disorder. This is because the thyroid gland is located in your neck, and when it isn’t functioning properly, it can cause the gland to become enlarged.

This can result in a visible swelling in your neck, known as a goiter.

If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s important to talk to your doctor about getting tested for thyroid disorders.

Your doctor can perform a blood test to measure your thyroid hormone levels, and if necessary, refer you to an endocrinologist for further testing and treatment.