10 Symptoms That May Indicate A Thyroid Problem

There are a near infinite number of issues and ailments that can arise throughout the human body from time to time, and at some point, you may not be aware that you require medical attention until the symptoms become serious. For example, the thyroid gland plays a vital role in maintaining overall health, primarily regulating the body's metabolic rate, which in turn controls and influences the heart, muscles, brain development, and bone health. However, sometimes you may find it challenging to ascertain that you indeed have a thyroid problem until you undergo a medical examination.

This article seeks to examine 10 common symptoms that are experienced by those suffering from thyroid problems, while providing practical information concerning treatment.

1) Changes in bowel movement or constipation

The human body functions as a structure. When there is an imbalance in one area of the body, the ripple effect has a tendency to spread to other parts. While talking about bowel movements in public may sound awkward, a change in bowel behavior helps us understand what is going on in our bodies. When you experience constipation over a sustained period of time, it is a sign of hypothyroidism. Similarly, constant bowel movement is the result of an overactive thyroid.

2) Changes in appetite

When you notice your appetite has changed dramatically in a short space of time, this is often related to hyperthyroidism or an overactive thyroid. Many patients suffering from thyroid problems experience a ravenous hunger for food. Likewise, a loss of appetite may indicate that your thyroid gland is not functioning correctly.

3) Change in weight or inability to lose/gain weight

When you realize there is no explanation for gaining or losing weight, that is a red flag that you might have a thyroid problem.

4) Excessive fatigue 

It is natural to feel weak and exhausted as a result of hard work or lack of sleep. To recover from fatigue, taking out time to rest is advisable. However, if you notice that the fatigue persists despite proper rest, it may be a sign you have an underlying thyroid problem.

5) Temperature sensitivity

Being intolerant to cold may be a sign that your thyroid is underactive, while being intolerant to higher temperatures may be a sign of hyperthyroidism.

6) Coarse, Brittle Hair, or Hair Loss

As you grow older, your hair’s color and texture begins to change. However, changes like brittleness, coarseness, and hair loss may be indicative of a thyroid issue.

7) Racing Heart or Palpitations

Due to the critical role that the thyroid gland plays in maintaining heart health, any change in the function of the thyroid will impact the entire body. For instance, a racing heart or sporadic palpitations can be caused by a thyroid disorder.

8) Noticeable tremors

You can know if you have thyroid problems or not through the nervous system. When the nervous system is impacted by hyperthyroidism, the resulting effect can lead to tremors throughout the body.

9) Mood swings and mental changes

Health challenges like depression, memory loss, and slow thinking are health problems that can be linked to hypothyroidism. Also, irritability, anxiety, and irrational nervousness are all signs that you should consult your doctor, as they may all be caused by a defective thyroid gland.

10) Enlarged thyroid gland

You can detect if your thyroid is irregular if there are any noticeable changes in its size. Some of the changes include enlarged gland and a swollen gland, more commonly known as goiter.

How to treat thyroid problems

Once it has been determined by a doctor that you have thyroid problems, the next thing to do is to look for a solution. To help rectify thyroid problems, there are some proven solutions you should look to implement into your daily life.

Stress management

Sleep is crucial to maintaining a healthy and balanced lifestyle. A lack of sleep can lead to heightened stress levels, which have dangerous repercussions for your body. When your body is constantly stressed, it releases hormones known as cortisol and adrenaline. Excessive cortisol and adrenaline can impact your body negatively.

Adequate sleep

Just as lack of sleep leads to greater irritability and stress, adequate sleep can reduce stress levels and the hazardous effects that they can have on your body. By extension, getting sufficient sleep at night will reduce the risk of developing thyroid related problems. Sleeping for at least eight hours will help your body to recover from stress and fatigue, while giving it the best opportunity to heal itself naturally.

Other ways to reduce and manage your thyroid for optimal performance include:

• Removing gluten from your diet
• Applying for a comprehensive lab test
• Removing exposure to chlorine, fluoride & bromine
• Work closely with a qualified health practitioner

Conclusion

The thyroid plays an essential role in regulating the overall health of the human body. Close attention must be paid to the possible symptoms of thyroid malfunction, and you should consult with a qualified GP or naturopathic specialist if any of the signs listed in this article, persist. Most thyroid problems are able to be effectively cured and managed through a sensible dietary routine, adequate sleep and regular exercise.