10 Common Signs of Thyroid Disorders

Signs of thyroid disorders

Your thyroid gland is essential for producing a variety of hormones including triiodothyronine and thyroxine. Your thyroid is the most important gland in your body for regulating metabolism.

It also ensures proper temperature regulation within your body, helps produce energy, and assists other organs in functioning properly.

Since the thyroid gland plays such an important role in maintaining proper function throughout your body, it is important to be aware of signs that may indicate problems related to this gland.

The following 10 signs are the most common for indicating thyroid disorders.

If you experience a few of these signs, it is worth your health to schedule an appointment with a throat specialist who can perform a thorough exam.

Common thyroid symptoms:

Neck Swelling – Discomfort and/or swelling in the neck area
Irregular Bowel Movements – Diarrhea or IBS (irritable bowel syndrome) may be a symptom of hyperthyroidism. Long-term constipation can be a sign of hypothyroidism
Muscle or Joint Pain – Pain or aching sensations in your muscles or joints; tendency to develop tarsal tunnel, carpal tunnel, or plantar fasciitis
Change in Hair or Skin – Hair loss or change in the quality of your hair or skin
Cholesterol Problems – High cholesterol or abnormally low cholesterol levels
Family History – Individuals with a family history of thyroid disorders may be at higher risk
Mood Disorder – Depression can be a sign of hypothyroidism, and anxiety is often associated with hyperthyroidism
Fatigue – Feelings of exhaustion during the day even after a full night’s rest
Unexplained Weight Changes – Inability to lose weight even when following an exercise routine and eating a low-calorie, low fat diet. Unexplained weight gain or weight loss
Irregular Menstrual Cycle and/or Fertility Issues – Women with heavier, more frequent periods or lighter, infrequent periods; or problems with fertility.