Signs and Symptoms of Thyroid Problems

Millions of Americans suffer from thyroid problems. Some are aware of the problem and some are not. The reason for this is that many people, including physicians, consider that the signs and symptoms that you are experiencing could be caused by something else, when actually it is the thyroid causing the symptoms. They will consider that you must be depressed, just getting old, going through menopause, over-stressed, or that you are just dreaming up the problems. Well, you are not just dreaming.

I would like to give you some of the most common signs and symptoms of thyroid problems. If you find that you have experienced a good amount of these signs, then you need to contact your physician and get checked. If your physician is not willing to perform the test, then find another physician. Finding out and correcting a thyroid problem can drastically improve your quality of life. It is typically as easy as a simple blood test to find out if you have a problem.

Signs and Symptoms of an overactive thyroid include...

• Weight loss


• Anxiety/panic attacks


• Rapid pulse


• High blood pressure


• Sensitivity to heat


• Increased sweating


• Increased appetite


• Diarrhea


• Muscle weakness


• Insomnia

Signs and Symptoms of an underactive thyroid include...

• Obesity/Weight Gain


• Digestive problems/constipation


• Abdominal swelling


• Low body temperature/feeling cold


• Tired or weak feeling


• Difficulty concentrating


• Slow pulse/low blood pressure


• Skin changes


• Loss of hair


• Brittle nails


• Voice becomes more hoarse


• Menstrual changes


• Muscle and joint pain


• Depression


• Low Sex Drive


• Eye/Vision problems


• Dizziness


• Sleep apnea/Snoring

If you are concerned that you may have a thyroid problem, do yourself a favor and get yourself checked out. One of the biggest risk factors for thyroid problems is a family history of thyroid disease. Ask your relatives if they are aware of any history of this. Knowing this information would be very helpful to your physician. A family history is not the only risk factor for thyroid problems, though. Pituitary and hypothalamic disorders, family history of autoimmune or endocrine diseases, aging, menopause, certain side effects of drugs, iodine imbalances, alcohol during pregnancy, and many other things are risk factors for thyroid problems.

If you are not feeling like yourself and you haven't felt good for a length of time, take an inventory of what doesn't feel right. Take this information to your physician as well as information on any risk factors that apply to you. If your physician is hesitant to perform the test still, then consider finding another doctor. Your health is too important to ignore the signs and symptoms of thyroid problems.