The thyroid gland is a butterfly-shaped gland located in the neck that produces hormones that regulate your body’s metabolism. When your thyroid isn’t functioning properly, it can cause a variety of symptoms and health problems.

Here are 30 surprising signs that your thyroid may be out of whack:.

1. Unexplained weight gain or weight loss

If you have a thyroid problem, you may find it difficult to lose weight or notice that you are gaining weight despite eating a healthy diet and exercising regularly.

2. Fatigue and tiredness

Feeling tired all the time is a common symptom of an underactive thyroid, also known as hypothyroidism. Thyroid hormone helps to regulate energy levels in the body, so a low level of thyroid hormone can cause fatigue.

3. Hair loss

Thinning hair or bald patches can be a sign of an underactive thyroid. The hair may also become dry or brittle and may break easily.

4. Dry skin

A lack of thyroid hormone can cause the skin to become dry, flaky, and itchy. You may also notice that your nails are brittle and break easily.

5. Constipation

Hypothyroidism can slow down your digestive system and cause constipation.

6. Depression and anxiety

The thyroid gland plays a role in regulating mood and emotions. A low level of thyroid hormone can cause feelings of depression and anxiety.

7. Brain fog and memory problems

Brain fog, difficulty concentrating, and memory problems can be symptoms of an underactive thyroid.

8. Irregular periods and fertility issues

Hypothyroidism can cause irregular periods and make it difficult to get pregnant. Thyroid hormone is essential for normal reproductive function.

9. High cholesterol

An underactive thyroid can cause an increase in cholesterol levels, which can increase the risk of heart disease.

10. Joint pain and muscle weakness

Hypothyroidism can cause joint pain and stiffness, as well as muscle weakness and cramps.

11. Swelling in the neck

A goiter, or swelling in the neck, can be a sign of a thyroid problem. This can be caused by an overactive or underactive thyroid.

12. Increased sensitivity to cold

A low level of thyroid hormone can cause you to feel cold all the time, even when other people are warm.

13. Hoarseness

An underactive thyroid can cause the voice to become hoarse or husky.

14. Slow heart rate

A low level of thyroid hormone can cause the heart rate to slow down, which can lead to shortness of breath and fatigue.

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15. Dry eyes and vision problems

A lack of thyroid hormone can cause dry eyes and blurred or double vision.

16. Tingling in the hands and feet

Low thyroid hormone levels can cause tingling or numbness in the hands and feet.

17. High blood pressure

An overactive thyroid can cause high blood pressure, which can increase the risk of heart disease.

18. Rapid heartbeat

An overactive thyroid can cause the heart rate to speed up, which can cause palpitations and anxiety.

19. Sweating and heat intolerance

A high level of thyroid hormone can cause excessive sweating and make you feel hot all the time.

20. Insomnia

A thyroid problem can disrupt sleep patterns and cause insomnia.

21. Increased appetite

An overactive thyroid can cause an increased appetite, which can lead to weight loss despite eating more than usual.

22. Mood swings and irritability

A thyroid problem can cause mood swings and make you feel irritable or angry.

23. Difficulty swallowing

A goiter can cause difficulty swallowing, especially if it is large.

24. Menstrual changes

A thyroid problem can cause changes in the menstrual cycle, including heavy bleeding and irregular periods.

25. Infertility

Hypothyroidism can cause infertility by disrupting ovulation and the menstrual cycle.

26. Brittle bones

A long-term thyroid problem can cause brittle bones, which can increase the risk of fractures and osteoporosis.

27. Changes in bowel habits

A thyroid problem can cause changes in bowel habits, including diarrhea or constipation.

28. Heart palpitations

Heart palpitations can be a symptom of an overactive thyroid.

29. Tremors

Tremors or shaking can be a symptom of an overactive thyroid.

30. Difficulty regulating body temperature

A thyroid problem can make it difficult to regulate body temperature, causing you to feel too hot or too cold.