Thyroid Symptoms that May Indicate a Problem with Thyroid Function
The thyroid is a gland located within the neck that is responsible for a variety of different important metabolic functions within the body. This gland is shaped like a butterfly, and if a problem exists with the thyroid, several varied symptoms may occur in the human body. Many people mistakenly attribute thyroid symptoms to another factor or cause.
It’s estimated in fact, that twenty percent of the world’s population may have a thyroid problem without even realising that a problem exists. Diagnosing a thyroid issue is quite difficult, but there are some symptoms associated with thyroid problems. Here are some of the most common thyroid symptoms that may provide indication of a serious issue.
Common thyroid symptoms may include:
Muscle and Joint Pain
Chronic achiness or pain in the muscles or joints of the body may be an indication of a serious thyroid problem.
Types of pain that are serious indications include weakness in the arms, carpal tunnel syndrome in the hands, arms, and fingers, tarsal tunnel or cramping in the legs, and plantars fasciitis in the feet. If chronic pain continues to affect you even after prescribed medication is used, consult a physician about a possible thyroid disorder.
Neck Issues
Because the thyroid is located in the neck, many neck issues that are mistakenly diagnosed as neck injury or chronic neck pain are actually associated with a diseased thyroid.
If the thyroid swells or becomes enlarged, neck pain, achiness, neck skin tenderness, hoarseness or loss of voice, or visible enlargement may be experienced. A neck check can help people discover whether their thyroid is enlarged.
Fatigue and Depression
Because the thyroid is responsible for healthy metabolism and the conversion of energy, a malfunctioning thyroid can cause feelings of fatigue and depression.
Depression is a complicated symptom to diagnose, but it is often caused by low energy levels, which are an indicator of a thyroid problem. If you eat healthy food and get plenty of sleep but still have energy level problems, a thyroid issue may be the cause.
Weight, Hair, and Skin Changes
Problems with the thyroid can also manifest in physical changes that affect other parts of the body. If the thyroid is not assisting body metabolism, hair, skin and fingernails may become dull or lifeless.
Brittle fingernails or brittle hair, severe hair loss, or flaky skin may indicate a thyroid problem. Sudden weight gain or weight loss may also indicate thyroid disease or other thyroid issues.
If you have questions or concerns about thyroid symptoms or thyroid problems contact your local doctor who will arrange for you to see a thyroid surgeon.
