The thyroid is a butterfly-shaped gland situated in the neck, and it is responsible for producing hormones that regulate a person’s metabolism.

An issue with the thyroid gland, such as an underactive or overactive thyroid, can cause a variety of symptoms that can be serious. Therefore, it’s crucial to pay attention to these warning signals and act on them if you suspect that you may have a thyroid issue.

1. Weight Changes

Weight difficulties are typical indications of a thyroid issue, and they usually come with changes in appetite.

An underactive thyroid gland slows down your metabolism, making it more difficult to lose weight, even though you may not be eating more than usual. On the other hand, an overactive thyroid gland speeds up your metabolism, causing you to lose weight unexpectedly and potentially too quickly.

2. Fatigue

You may be experiencing constant fatigue, even though you seem to be sleeping and resting enough. This is because the thyroid gland can wreak havoc on your energy levels when it’s underactive or overactive.

With an underactive gland, your body is not producing enough thyroid hormones, leaving you feeling sluggish and exhausted. With an overactive gland, your body is creating too many thyroid hormones, which can cause you to feel jittery or restless and have trouble sleeping, which also leads to fatigue.

3. Hair Loss

Anemia, stress, genetics, and other factors can all cause hair loss, but it can also signal an underlying thyroid issue.

When the thyroid gland isn’t functioning correctly, it can cause hair follicles to stop producing hair, causing the hair to fall out in clumps. You may also notice your hair is thinning or dry and brittle.

4. Mood Swings

Are you experiencing mood swings, anxiety, or depression? An underactive or overactive thyroid gland may be to blame since the thyroid regulates neurotransmitters in the brain.

With an underactive thyroid, levels of serotonin and dopamine may be too low, leading to an increased risk of depression. With an overactive thyroid gland, levels of adrenalin increase, causing anxious feelings or even panic attacks.

5. Changes in Body Temperature

The thyroid gland also regulates body temperature. When it’s not functioning correctly, you may experience fluctuations in your internal thermostat.

With an underactive thyroid, you might feel chilly even when others are comfortable, since your metabolism and temperature regulation have slowed down. With an overactive thyroid, you might feel warm or hot even when the temperature is cool.

Related Article Indications of Thyroid Trouble

6. Heart Rate

An overactive thyroid gland can lead to an elevated heart rate. It may feel like your heart is racing or skipping beats. You may also feel a fluttering sensation in your chest or experience shortness of breath.

With an underactive thyroid gland, the opposite is true. Your heart rate may be slower and irregular.

7. Digestive Issues

An underactive thyroid gland can cause digestive troubles such as constipation, bloating, and abdominal discomfort. This is because a sluggish metabolism slows down the digestive system, causing food to move more slowly through the intestines.

With an overactive thyroid gland, you may experience diarrhea or irritable bowel syndrome since the increased metabolism leads to more frequent bowel movements.

8. Menstrual Problems

The thyroid can also impact the menstrual cycle. With an underactive thyroid gland, menstrual periods may become heavier and more prolonged than usual. With an overactive thyroid gland, menstrual cycles may become lighter and shorter.

9. Muscle Weakness

An underactive thyroid gland can cause muscle weakness and fatigue. Your muscles may feel heavy, and you may have trouble lifting even light items.

With an overactive thyroid gland, you may experience muscle weakness as well, but it’s typically accompanied by trembling or shaking in your hands or legs.

10. Swelling

Swelling in the neck, known as a goiter, can indicate an issue with the thyroid gland. An enlarged gland can put pressure on other organs in the neck, causing issues such as difficulty swallowing or breathing.

It’s important to seek medical attention if you notice swelling in your neck.

Conclusion

There are numerous warning signals of a thyroid issue. Some symptoms are specific to an overactive or underactive gland, while others could indicate either issue.

If you’re experiencing any of the above symptoms, it’s crucial to contact your healthcare professional. Your doctor can run tests to check your thyroid function and help you manage any issues that arise.