Though it is often ignored, the thyroid is a very important gland that affects many functions in the body. The thyroid gland is located in the neck, and it mainly produces hormones, such as T3, T4, Free T3, and Reverse T3, that help to regulate the metabolism. If the incorrect amount of these hormones is made, then the natural balance of the body is destroyed.
It can sometimes be tricky to diagnose a thyroid disorder because many people do not notice these problematic symptoms, but these are eight of the main signs of thyroid disfunction.
8 Signs Your Thyroid Is Not Working Properly
1. Tremors or Anxiety
If your thyroid produces too many hormones (hyperthyroidism), you may feel shaky, twitchy, and agitated because your metabolism is running too quickly. You can also have trouble concentrating.
2. Altered Mental Function
If you have low levels of thyroid hormones (hypothyroidism), you may feel foggy, exhausted, or fatigued.
3. Changes in Weight
Hypothyroidism can cause unexplained weight gain, while hyperthyroidism might cause you to lose too much weight.
4. Odd Pains
If you regularly feel muscle pain, joint pain, or sudden weakness for no reason, you might have a thyroid issue.
5. Unusual Menstruation
Hypothyroidism may result in extremely heavy, lengthy menstruation, and hyperthyroidism is often accompanied by a very light flow or absent period.
6. Bloating
Hypothyroidism might cause you to appear bloated and constipated. This bloating is often most noticeable in the face, which will look oddly puffy.
7. Unusual Temperatures
People with thyroid disorders often notice that their reactions to temperatures do not match other people’s. Those with hypothyroidism feel unnaturally cold, while those with hyperthyroidism get hotter than other people in the same room.
8. Changed Appearances
Hair loss or dry, thinning hair can be caused by hypothyroidism. People with thyroid disorders also tend to notice that they appear pale or sallow.