Autoimmune Disorders, Hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism: What are the Signs & Symptoms?

Hypothyroidism involves an under-active thyroid gland in your body. Given that this gland is involved in the management of your body’s metabolism, the signs and symptoms that result when you have hypothyroidism, make a lot of sense.

Hypothyroidism’s symptoms often tend to develop slowly and vaguely, making the diagnosis less clear-cut at times.

Here are some common signs and symptoms that may indicate you are experiencing hypothyroidism:

Fatigue

Fatigue is one of the most common complaints that can indicate that something is wrong with your thyroid.

Weight Gain

Your body’s metabolism slows down, making it harder to burn calories. In addition, the fatigue you are experiencing can negatively impact your exercise and activity levels.

Constipation

Because your bodily functions slow down, it also affects your bowels.

Intolerance to cold

You always feel cold when others feel comfortable or warm. You may even describe it as “feeling chilled to the bone.”

Dry skin

If circulation slows down in your body due to an underactive thyroid, it also affects your skin (and many other organs).

Depression

An underactive thyroid can mimic mental illness. It is always important for physicians to rule out physical causes before providing a diagnosis of depression.

In the case of hypothyroidism, when your bodily functions are slowed down, your mood can also be negatively affected.

Poor memory

If you are experiencing other symptoms related to hypothyroidism such as depression and fatigue, it makes sense that poor memory can also result.

Thinning eyebrows and hair

These tend to be signs that occur later in more severe forms of hypothyroidism.

Slowed heart rate

Your heart does not pump as vigorously as it normally should.

Brittle hair and nails

Again, if your heart is not pumping as vigorously as it should, it will affect your circulation and the cells that rely on receiving the oxygen. Two other areas of your body that can be impacted include your hair and nails.

Other signs and symptoms to be aware of include:

  • Hoarseness
  • Muscle weakness
  • Muscle aches
  • Irregular menstrual cycles
  • Heavier menstruation
  • Swelling in face
  • Infertility
  • Decreased libido

To conclude, there are many signs and symptoms of hypothyroidism. Many of them are vague and come on slowly, so that can mean that the diagnosis is sometimes delayed or overlooked. Fortunately, with treatment, many of the symptoms of hypothyroidism can be reversed. The key is to recognize your symptoms, and then see your physician for testing.

For more information on how to get hypothyroidism under control, visit:

http://healthsecretsdaily.com/hypothyroid