Thyroid disease is a more common problem than most people think. Thyroid disease symptoms most often occur when the thyroid is either overactive or underactive. The primary function of the thyroid is to produce the hormones that regulate the body’s metabolism. There are actually a number of different thyroid problems that a patient can suffer from, but many of these different conditions can share the same symptoms. This article provides general information about some of the most common symptoms attributable to thyroid disease.
Here is a list of the 10 most common thyroid disease symptoms:
- Tremors or excessive nervousness. Along with agitation, these are common signs that a person’s thyroid may be overactive.
- An inability to concentrate. A person’s mental clarity and their ability to concentrate can be affected by both overactive and underactive thyroids. In some cases, it can even lead to depression.
- Changes in a woman’s menstrual cycle. A woman who has an overactive thyroid will often have prolonged or excessive bleeding during her time of the month. On the other hand, an underactive thyroid can cause reduced menstrual cycles.
- A feeling of being bloated. For underactive thyroids, water retention is one of the most common thyroid disease symptoms.
- A racing heart. An overactive thyroid will often produce heart palpitations or a significantly increased heart rate.
- Various aches and pains. Thyroid problems are often accompanied by various aches and pains in the muscles.
- Modest weight gain. A person who suffers from an underactive thyroid will often experience moderate weight gain.
- High lipid levels. An underactive thyroid will often be associated with an increased risk of heart disease. This is because high levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) can occur in people with an underactive thyroid. This can have consequences for cardiovascular health.
- An inability to tolerate heat. Individuals who have overactive thyroids are often overly sensitive to the effects of heat.
- An inability to tolerate cold. On the flip side, an underactive thyroid can often make a person feel cold.
While none of these symptoms are absolutely specific to thyroid disease alone, they are often signals that something could be wrong with a person’s thyroid. Those who are experiencing them are urged to contact their doctor quickly. Thyroid diseases are rarely fatal, but they can adversely affect a person’s quality of life. The sooner an individual receives treatment, the sooner he or she will be able to return to their normal lifestyle. With the knowledge of what symptoms to look for, a patient can be more vigilant about their health.
If you have questions or concerns about thyroid disease symptoms, see your local doctor, who will arrange for you to see a thyroid surgeon.
