The thyroid gland is a butterfly-shaped gland located in the neck, just below the larynx. It is responsible for producing hormones that regulate the body’s metabolism.

When the thyroid gland is not functioning properly, it can produce too much or too little thyroid hormone, leading to a variety of symptoms. Here are 13 visual signs of thyroid trouble to watch for:.

1. Swelling in the Neck

One of the most common visual signs of thyroid trouble is swelling in the neck. This swelling, also known as a goiter, can occur on one or both sides of the neck.

In some cases, the swelling may be small and barely noticeable, while in other cases it can be quite large and make it difficult to swallow or breathe.

2. Bulging Eyes

Patients with thyroid disorders can develop bulging eyes, or exophthalmos, as a result of inflammation in the tissues surrounding the eye. This condition, known as Graves’ disease, can cause the eyes to appear to be bulging out of the sockets.

In severe cases, it can also lead to vision problems like double vision or blurred vision.

3. Dry Skin

Thyroid hormone is involved in many bodily functions, including skin health. When thyroid hormone levels are too low, patients may develop dry, flaky skin that feels rough to the touch. This can also lead to itching and skin irritation.

4. Hair Loss

Another common symptom of thyroid trouble is hair loss, particularly on the scalp. This is because thyroid hormone is integral to the growth and maintenance of hair follicles.

When there is a deficiency of thyroid hormone, hair follicles can become weak, leading to hair loss.

5. Brittle Nails

The thyroid gland also plays a role in the health of nails, and patients with thyroid disorders may notice that their nails become brittle, weak, and prone to splitting or breaking.

This can be caused by a deficiency of thyroid hormone, which is needed for nail growth and maintenance.

6. Weight Gain

One of the most well-known symptoms of an underactive thyroid gland is weight gain. This is because thyroid hormone helps to regulate metabolism, and a deficiency of thyroid hormone can slow down the body’s metabolic rate, leading to weight gain.

7. Muscle Weakness

Patients with thyroid disorders may also experience muscle weakness, particularly in the legs. This can be due to a deficiency of thyroid hormone, which is needed for muscle growth and maintenance.

8. Hoarse Voice

The thyroid gland is located near the voice box, and when it becomes enlarged or inflamed, it can put pressure on the voice box, leading to a hoarse voice. This is particularly common in patients with an enlarged thyroid gland, or goiter.

9. Menstrual Irregularities

Thyroid hormone also plays a role in the regulation of menstrual cycles, and women with thyroid disorders may experience irregular periods, heavy bleeding, or even missed periods. This can be due to a deficiency or excess of thyroid hormone.

10. Fatigue

Patients with thyroid disorders may also feel fatigued or sluggish, even after a good night’s sleep.

This can be due to a deficiency of thyroid hormone, which is responsible for maintaining energy levels and regulating the body’s metabolic rate.

11. Intolerance to Cold

When thyroid hormone levels are too low, the body’s metabolic rate slows down, and patients may experience intolerance to cold temperatures. This can cause them to feel cold even in warm environments and may lead to chills or shivering.

12. Depression and Anxiety

Patients with thyroid disorders may also experience mood changes, including depression and anxiety. This can be due to an imbalance of thyroid hormone, which can affect the brain’s neurotransmitters and lead to changes in mood and behavior.

13. Constipation

Thyroid hormone also plays a role in the regulation of digestion, and patients with an underactive thyroid gland may experience constipation or other digestive issues as a result.

This can be due to a slowing down of the digestive system and a decrease in the production of digestive enzymes.