Hyperthyroidism: What Are the Symptoms of Thyroid Problems in Women?
Hyperthyroidism is a condition that affects many women, causing insufficient production of thyroid hormones. Since this directly affects the body’s metabolism, many women who suffer from this problem have a difficult time maintaining their weight. In addition to weight gain, there are a number of additional symptoms of thyroid problems that should be considered.
Symptoms of thyroid problems in women include:
- Weight gain that cannot be explained
- Fatigue
- Hair loss
- Dry hair
- Weakness
- Abnormal menstrual cycle (skipped periods, heavy periods, irregular periods)
- Constipation
- Dry skin
- Muscle cramps
- Memory loss
- Irritability
- Intolerance to cold
- Depression
- Decreased libido
Thyroid problems in women may also make it more difficult to become pregnant. Doctors usually advise women who have experienced thyroid problems in the past to take a blood test if they plan on conceiving so that appropriate measures can be taken to correct any existing problems. In addition to improving a woman’s chance of conceiving, it is important to test for any existing thyroid problems because these disorders can have detrimental effects on the fetus.
According to Thyroidism.net, women 50 years old and older have an increased risk of developing thyroid problems. This is because reproductive hormones dramatically change in middle-aged women, and these hormones can react with thyroid hormones in a way that leads to problems with the thyroid gland.
The changes in reproductive hormones in a women’s body throughout her life can cause changes in thyroid function. For example, women who are going through Perimenopause tend to experience low-thyroid function.
A deeper understanding of the symptoms of thyroid problems in women will help a growing number of women take action when problems do exist. With a proper diagnosis, healthcare professionals will be able to help women who suffer from these disorders so that they can get back to life as usual.
If you have questions or concerns about thyroid problems see your local doctor who will arrange for you to see a thyroid surgeon.
