Underactive Thyroid Symptoms

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Most of us have heard someone say they have an underactive thyroid and that maybe they suffer from some underactive thyroid symptoms. Most peoples first thought is that it has something to do with their ability to lose weight, but it’s important to start thinking much beyond that.

There is a major problem in chalking up an underactive thyroid as being “nothing important.” The fact is, underactive thyroid symptoms can be not only annoying, but also quite serious if not addressed with the right hypothyroidism treatment protocol.

Unfortunately, many people who have had a thyroid test assume that if it came back “normal” then their thyroid is in good shape.  This isn’t necessarily true. In fact many of the thyroid hormone tests are inaccurate, leading people to believe their thyroid is fine, when in reality they are suffering from underactive thyroid symptoms without even knowing it.

Your underactive thyroid symptoms are a result of hypothyroidism which is a condition that occurs when the thyroid gland is not producing enough hormones or when those hormones are not being properly delivered to your cells. In any event, all thyroid symptoms should be taken seriously because hypothyroidism is a serious condition that can greatly impact your quality and length of life.

Another word for underactive thyroid symptoms is “hypothyroidism.” What this means is that the thyroid gland is not producing enough hormones.

General Underactive Thyroid Symptoms

underactive thyroid symptoms

  • Chronic Constipation
  • Depression
  • Dry Hair
  • Dry Skin
  • Fatigue
  • Feeling sluggish
  • Feeling too cold
  • Inability to lose weight
  • Sleeping too much
  • Slow movements
  • Sore muscles
  • Unexplained weight gain
  • General weakness
  • A change in facial expression
  • Slow heart beat

Most underactive thyroid symptoms usually develop slowly over time.  At first, the symptoms will be quite mild and most people don’t even pay attention.  However, eventually hypothyroidism begins to have a far greater effect on your cells as it disrupts your liver, brain, and your entire hormonal system.

While oftentimes you may experience just one of these symptoms, it is not unusual to find that you are suffering from several underactive thyroid symptoms at the same time without ever correlating them to the one cause.

This is especially the case when a thyroid problem is manifesting in a specific body system. In that instance, one may experience a myriad of symptoms all related to the same body system. Below I’ve covered some commonly affected systems.

Reproductive System

In women, oftentimes the most affected is the reproductive system.  In fact, women often first develop or first discover they have a problem with their thyroid after pregnancy. This is because of the large fluctuations in your hormones which can intensify and perpetuate many of the thyroid symptoms in women.

For women, this is largely a problem with over-producing of estrogen or under-producing progesterone. Progesterone is a very protective hormone for both mother and baby which also serves to help regulate the thyroid gland. Estrogen on the other hand suppresses the thyroid gland.

Underactive Thyroid Symptoms Connected to the Reproductive System

  • Irregular menstrual cycle
  • Heavy or prolonged menstrual cycle
  • Excessive clotting
  • Fibroids
  • Fibrocystic breasts (lumpy breast syndrome)
  • Breast milk when not lactating or pregnant
  • Low or no sex drive
  • History of miscarriage

Oftentimes women experience food cravings at different times of their cycle when their hormones are fluctuating. We oftentimes view this as a negative habit; however, this is your body innately trying to tell you what it needs. Oftentimes by following a good hypothyroidism diet to help keep your hormones in balance you can avoid many of the negative effects of these hormone fluctuations.

Cardiac and Circulatory System

Underactive thyroid symptoms can be similar to those of an adrenaline shot or too much epinephrine. Rapid heartbeat, increase pulse rate and heart palpitations can be mistaken for a heart condition when in reality it is a thyroid problem that you are dealing with.

Underactive Thyroid Symptoms Connected to Heart Disease

underactive thyroid symptoms

  • Shortness of breath
  • Abnormal cardiac function
  • Angina
  • Congestive heart failure (very rare)
  • Decreased cardiac function
  • Diastolic hypertension – (high blood pressure)
  • Edema or swelling
  • Inability to tolerate exercise
  • Increased LDL or bad cholesterol
  • Slow heart rate – 10 to 12 beats slower than normal
  • Worsening of an already diagnosed “heart failure.”
  • Hardening of the arteries
  • Heart attacks in older patients

Digestive System

Poor digestion depletes the body’s nutrients and therefore can actually promote and perpetuate thyroid problems.  Most physicians agree that many disorders of the body seem to start in the intestine. One such example of hypothyroidism’s impact on your digestive system is it’s important role in the manufacturing of many digestive enzymes required to properly digest your food.

Underactive Thyroid Symptoms Connected to Digestive Dysfunction

  • Bad breath
  • Belching
  • Constipation
  • Diarrhea
  • Difficulty in passing bowel movements
  • Digestion difficulties after eating greasy foods or foods high in fat
  • Metallic taste in mouth
  • Nausea, vomiting, or heart burn that gets temporary relief when treated with OTC meds.

Remember that some of you have suffered from these underactive thyroid symptoms for so many years that you have come to believe the way you feel is normal.

It is not!

Many of the underactive thyroid symptoms such as fatigue and exhaustion are a result of your body’s inability to deliver key thyroid hormones to your cells.

Nervous System

The nervous system is a double edged sword when it comes to your thyroid function.  On the one hand, long-term chronic stress can bring on underactive thyroid symptoms, and in turn an underactive thyroid can cause the body to experience high levels of stress. Both promote each other.

Also, when it comes to the body’s nervous system, you can be suffering from these symptoms for years, and never realize the problem are really underactive thyroid symptoms.

Underactive Thyroid Symptoms Connected to the Nervous System

  • Reduced sensation
  • Peripheral nerve damage
  • Memory loss
  • Lack of coordination
  • Hearing loss
  • Dementia

Obviously the underactive thyroid symptoms connected to the nervous system can be very serious.  As is often the case, many of these symptoms can be mistaken for other conditions and a misdiagnosis can result.

These severe symptoms are usually found in cases of hypothyroidism that have gone untreated for many years.

Remember that once your underactive thyroid symptoms are recognized for what they really are, and you begin taking the necessary steps to turn it around, you will begin feeling better than you have for a long time. In many cases people begin to feel like a different person once they have been made aware that their symptoms are actually a result of their thyroid, many of which have endured years of suffering.

Symptoms of Hypothyroidism in Women

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Many symptoms are often elusive because there are so many different symptoms and they are connected to such a variety of systems in the body. Probably the most common system that displays symptoms of hypothyroidism is the reproductive system.  Signs that often appear to be indicative of menopause, or pre-menstrual syndrome, often actually turn out to be symptoms of hypothyroidism in women.

Women of all ages can experience hypothyroidism. It’s important to know that the majority of people in all cases of this disorder are women and that while young women can be susceptible to symptoms of hypothyroidism in women as well, the majority of women are over the age of 30 or going through menopause.

If you suspect that your symptoms are in fact the common result of hypothyroidism then be sure run your own therapeutic trial and see if a good hypothyroidism treatment improves your symptoms.

While the condition does affect men as well, the incidence is not nearly as often and the symptoms are different in men than are the symptoms of hypothyroidism in women.

In order to get a good handle on the importance of knowing your body and knowing if you are experiencing any symptoms, let’s take a look at the thyroid and determine what it is and why it’s so important.

Thyroid Gland – The Reason for Symptoms of Hypothyroidism in Women

Like all the glands in your body, the thyroid manufactures hormones. Thyroid hormones control the body’s metabolism. Most of us think of weight gain or loss when we hear the word metabolism, but in reality, the thyroid hormones do much more than merely control your weight.

Not only does the thyroid regulate metabolism and determine the rate of body system functions, but it also controls how fast or slow your body uses the energy it produces.

An overactive thyroid is when the gland produces too much of the hormone; in turn an under-active thyroid produces too little. When a woman has an under-active thyroid, she will eventually develop symptoms of hypothyroidism in women until she begins eating a proper hypothyroidism diet to stimulate and heal her thyroid.

Some of the more common symptoms of hypothyroidism in women are connected to the reproductive system. Let’s take a look at some of those symptoms and then go over some of the other symptoms women experience when the thyroid gland is not working properly.

Symptoms of Hypothyroidism in Women

Reproductive System Symptoms

symptoms of hypothyroidism in women

  • Painful menstrual periods
  • Irregular periods
  • Excessive bleeding or clotting
  • History of miscarriage
  • Difficulty conceiving
  • Uterine Fibroids
  • Postpartum depression
  • Low sex drive
  • Breast milk when not lactating
  • Fibrocystic or “lumpy bumpy” breasts

Although the symptoms of hypothyroidism in women can often be related to the reproductive system, that isn’t always the case.  In fact there are many symptoms that are not at all related. Here is a check list of general symptoms that could be indicating a problem with hypothyroidism:

General Symptoms of Hypothyroidism in Women

  • Weight gain/difficulty losing weight
  • Slowness or slurring of speech
  • Dry, brittle hair
  • Chronic constipation
  • Brittle nails that break easily
  • Hoarseness
  • Persistent cold sores or breakouts
  • Puffy face
  • Puffy fingers or toes
  • High cholesterol levels
  • Low energy level
  • Pain in the neck area
  • Noticeable lump in the neck area

Another way to determine if you may be experiencing symptoms of hypothyroidism in women is to see the check list below which indicates risk factors for the problem.

The following is a list of risk factors that may make you more prone to problems with your thyroid:

Risk Factors for Symptoms of Hypothyroidism in Women

  • Use of lithium based mood stabilizers
  • History of stress or stress related illnesses
  • Use of birth control pills in women
  • History of family member with thyroid disorder
  • Menopause
  • Pre-Menopause

Another symptom of hypothyroidism in women is depression, which is often manifested by the hormones in your body.

Along with menopause, which is a time when many women feel out of sorts or experience depression. In some cases, depression alone is the first warning that something is wrong with the thyroid gland.

There are other symptoms of thyroid that mimic the symptoms of menopause. It’s a good idea to have an understanding of what these are so you can make an educated decision as to whether you are experiencing true symptoms of hypothyroidism or menopause. As mentioned above, sometimes both conditions can occur at the same time.

Symptoms of Hypothyroidism in Women that Mimic Menopause

symptoms of hypothyroidism in women

  • Onset of depression that doesn’t go away in a few days or a week
  • Loss of hair
  • Mood swings
  • Brittle nails
  • Inability to sleep at night
  • Exhaustion
  • Sore breasts
  • Lactation without childbirth
  • Difficulty concentrating
  • Unexplained weight gain
  • Weight shift to midriff area

Unfortunately, most women in their middle years who experience the above symptoms are naturally diagnosed as being menopausal when they are really experiencing hypothyroid symptoms in women.  Although having a hormone level test done is the usual procedure for determining if your thyroid is functioning properly, these tests are not always accurate.

A good number of the tests come back with a negative result, when in fact the real problem is that you are indeed suffering from symptoms of hypothyroidism in women.

Although most symptoms of hypothyroidism in women are not life- threatening, some can be quite serious and must be addressed.  Other systems of the body can be impacted by hypothyroidism and in rare cases lead to serious illness.

That makes it important to not ignore your symptoms. If you can identify with any of those listed here, then you really need to take into consideration that you may have a problem with your thyroid.

Here are some of the other body systems that can be affected by an unhealthy thyroid gland:

  • Cardiac and circulatory system
  • Digestive system
  • Joints and muscles
  • Neurological system

There are a myriad of symptoms in each of these systems that can be indicative of a thyroid disorder.

It is important that you become involved in your own health by familiarizing yourself with the many different symptoms of hypothyroidism in women and determine if any of the symptoms you are currently experiencing may actually be attributed to your thyroid.

 

Low Thyroid Symptoms

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Low thyroid symptoms can be quite frustrating. They range from making you tired, to making you feel like you’re going to blow your top, for little or no reason at all.  Usually thyroid symptoms include gaining weight, lots of aches and pains, and even fuzzy thinking. Sound familiar?  If you have been suffering from one or more of these, chances are you’re dealing with low thyroid symptoms.

This condition however, is much more complicated than just a few simple symptoms. And, in some cases, especially women, suffer from several low thyroid symptoms at the same time.

Unfortunately, suffering from hypothyroidism, which is not usually thought of as serious, can wreak havoc with your everyday life because the symptoms are so numerous and range from simple to very complicated.

There is no easy solution to determine if your health issues are really just low thyroid symptoms or are related to some other disorder. Unfortunately, the thyroid tests that are currently available are not always accurate which is making it more increasingly difficult to get an accurate diagnosis.

In fact, because of poor test ranges, tests have been known to give a false negative reading, which means there are lots of people out there suffering from low thyroid symptoms, but who are misdiagnosed because their hormone level test came back normal.

If, by chance you have had a thyroid test that indicated your thyroid was fine, but you are still dealing with any of the various low thyroid symptoms, then it’s a good idea to take into consideration the one tried and true method for determining if you have hypothyroidism.

By simply taking your basal temperature upon waking  in the morning you can get an accurate indication of whether or not your thyroid is working up to par. Most people have very low body temperature upon waking which is a tell tale sign that a good hypothyroidism treatment program is the best thing that you can do for your health.

Similarities to Menopause

Keep in mind that although anyone can have hypothyroidism, it is more prevalent in women, especially those over the age of 30.  This often creates more confusion because it is at this time of life that women go through menopause. Many of the menopausal symptoms experienced by women are almost always caused or worsened by underling hypothyroidism, whether it has been diagnosed or not.

Similar to those patients who were misdiagnosed because their thyroid test came back normal, women that are in the age group for menopause or pre-menopause are often told they are suffering from menopause symptoms, when in reality, they are dealing with low thyroid symptoms.

There are also many thyroid symptoms in men that need to be addressed as well.

Recent studies have indicated that because hypothyroidism is being misdiagnosed, it is estimated that there are many people suffering from hypothyroidism who are not being treated properly. The best way to deal with the condition, especially if your test results have come back normal but you continue to suffer from any symptoms, is to keep track of the symptoms. If, as you begin to treat yourself for hypothyroidism and begin eating the right hypothyroidism diet, if your symptoms begin to disappear, then it’s quite likely you really have been suffering from low thyroid symptoms.

Remember that you thyroid gland determines the rate and speed of metabolism in your body. Metabolism is the chemical and metabolic development in the body making a healthy thyroid necessary for good health, proper growth and timely development.

Thyroid Hormones are responsible for:           

  • Agility
  • Appetite
  • Balance of fluids in the body
  • Blood circulation
  • Blood sugar levels
  • Body temperature
  • Bone development
  • Bowels
  • Cardiac strength
  • Central nervous system function
  • Cholesterol or blood fat levels
  • Energy
  • Growth
  • Muscle tone
  • Regulation of cellular carbohydrate and protein metabolism
  • Regulation of fats

To say the least, just about every system in the human body is somewhat dependent on the thyroid to produce the proper amount of hormones that the body needs in order to survive. When the thyroid levels are too low, the body begins to experience low thyroid symptoms.

General Low Thyroid Symptoms

  • Fatigue
  • Insomnia
  • Unexplained weight gain
  • Inability to lose weight
  • Feeling cold all the time
  • Slow reflexes
  • Severe PMS
  • Thick, dry skin
  • Slow weak pulse
  • Chronic constipation
  • High cholesterol
  • Pain in the neck
  • A lump or knot that is noticeable in the neck
  • A gravelly voice
  • Hoarseness
  • History of miscarriage
  • A feeling of numbness
  • Swelling of face
  • Swollen feet
  • Hair loss

Believe it or not, these are just the tip of the iceberg.

Consider the following list of possible red flags that may indicate low thyroid symptoms

  • Do you feel tired most of the time?
  • Is your menstrual cycle heavier than it used to be?
  • Have you stopped working out or doing exercise because it’s just too tiring?
  • Does your body seem to just naturally seek its own healthy weight when you eat healthy and exercise on a regular basis?  If not, you might have a thyroid disorder.
  • Do you often feel like you need a nap in the afternoon? If this is true, especially on the weekends when you don’t have to work, then you need to consider the health of your thyroid.
  • Has your cholesterol tested high in spite of efforts (including medication) to lower it?
  • Do you ever feel like you have a puffy face?

If the condition is not treated, the low thyroid symptoms can, and will, over time become more severe. Other, more severe symptoms include, decreased breathing, decreased body temperature, and low blood pressure. In some cases, these low thyroid symptoms can become quite serious. This is why it is best to determine if you have a thyroid condition early on, before the more difficult-to-treat symptoms begin to appear.

Along with the physical low thyroid symptoms, hypothyroidism can also cause symptoms that have to do with mental health. In fact, many patients who are being treated for depression are really suffering from hypothyroidism.

Let’s take a look at some of these low thyroid symptoms:

  • Depression
  • Mood Swings
  • Bipolar diagnosis
  • Fuzzy thinking
  • Inability to concentrate
  • Poor memory

If you discover you have been dealing with one or more of these mental health issues, it would be a good idea to consider that they are related to low thyroid symptoms.

Good thyroid health is essential in today’s world.  You just can’t afford risk your thyroid health by determining if you have any low thyroid symptoms. Once the issues to your thyroid are addressed, it is quite possible that many of the symptoms you’ve been suffering from will be alleviated.

Thyroid Symptoms in Women

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The thyroid gland plays a very important role in your ability to metabolize food, store energy, manage weight and control body heat. Believe it or not, it’s also a key factor in your ability to think, sleep, talk and be healthy. When your thyroid is out of balance, it won’t be long before you’ll be experiencing one or more of the many thyroid symptoms in women.

If you have a low thyroid function, which means your thyroid is producing fewer hormones than your body needs, your body systems will not operate at their optimum level. This condition is called hypothyroidism.

Although thyroid problems do affect all of the body’s systems, there is a tendency for thyroid symptoms in women to be especially influenced by the sex hormones, estrogen and progesterone.  In fact, many of the signs and symptoms of menopause are actually a clear indication that you are suffering from hypothyroidism and could greatly benefit from a good hypothyroidism treatment.

Let’s take a look at some of the thyroid symptoms that are connected with the sex hormones.

Thyroid Symptoms in Women Associated with Sex Hormone Imbalances

  • Irregular menstrual cycles
  • Heavy, long or frequent menstrual periods
  • Excessive clotting
  • Fibroids
  • Fibrocystic breasts (also called lumpy or bumpy breasts)
  • A history of miscarriage
  • Severe menstrual cramps
  • Difficulty conceiving
  • Diminished sex drive
  • Breast milk formation when not lactating or pregnant

Although the list of thyroid symptoms in women related to your sex hormones are vast, they are by no means the only clue that you might be suffering from a thyroid disorder.  In fact some of the body systems that can be impaired by a thyroid disorder are quite serious and need to be addressed.

Heart Problems Related to Thyroid Symptoms in Women

Older women are especially susceptible to heart and cardiac conditions brought on by hypothyroidism. Some studies have indicated that women with hypothyroidism are inclined to have blockages in the aorta and heart disease which can lead to a heart attack.

Some indications of heart problems that manifest as thyroid symptoms in women:

  • Hardening of the arteries
  • High blood pressure
  • High cholesterol levels that don’t drop after treatment
  • Inability to lose weight
  • Prolapsed mitral valve

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is often really one of the many thyroid symptoms in women.

In recent years the medical community is beginning to perceive a link between hypothyroidism and carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS).  The pain associated with CTS is usually accompanied by numbness in the wrist, or forearm and sometimes the fingers as well. The problem is the result of membranes that swell, causing a compression of a nerve in the forearm and wrist. Studies indicate the condition is much more common in those who have hypothyroidism.

Fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue syndrome and the connection to thyroid disorders.

The pain from fibromyalgia is quite severe and affects the muscles, tendons and ligaments.  There has been much confusion over the diagnosis of fibromyalgia until lately when studies are beginning to indicate that the pain of fibromyalgia and the exhaustion of chronic fatigue syndrome may be due to thyroid problems.  Both of these disorders, while occurring in both men and women, have a tendency to be more prevalent in women. Recent theories suggest the disorders are really thyroid symptoms in women.

Difficulty losing weight is one of the most common of thyroid symptoms in women.

One of the most noticeable and frustrating symptoms of hypothyroidism is weight gain, and/or the inability to lose extra weight no matter how much or little one eats.  Remember that in many cases a sluggish thyroid is the reason. If you are in overall good health, but can’t shed even a few pounds no matter how hard you try, your weight problem is very likely related to the thyroid symptoms in women. Bear in mind that there is a number of women who have no weight problems even though they are suffering from hypothyroidism.

Digestive disorders that are related to hypothyroidism.

The digestive system is responsible for taking the food you eat, turning it into fuel and energy, and then passing any waste through your body.  Any of the following symptoms of the digestive tract could be an indication that you are suffering from thyroid symptoms in women.

  • Loss of appetite
  • Constipation
  • Food allergies
  • Difficulty swallowing
  • A swollen tongue or ridges on the tongue
  • A dry mouth
  • Hemorrhoids
  • Irritable Bowel Syndrome also known as IBS
  • Distention of your abdomen
  • Excessive Gas
  • Bad breath
  • Diabetes
  • Liver or gallbladder problems
  • Cravings for salt
  • Cravings for sweets
  • Hypoglycemia

If you find that you have been bothered by one or more of these symptoms it may in fact mean that you are actually experiencing thyroid symptoms in women. And a hypothyroidism diet can really help with many of the symptoms.

Women are especially prone to hypothyroidism symptoms that affect the hair, skin and nails. 

Symptoms affecting the hair, skin and nails range from mild to serious and are often attributed to other conditions. However, if you find yourself dealing with any of the symptoms listed below consider that they may really be thyroid related.

  • Puffiness or swelling of eyes, or face
  • Swelling of hands feet, and/or ankles
  • Loss of Hair
  • Hair that is brittle
  • Eyelashes thinning out
  • Loss of eyebrow hair
  • Nails that are flakey, brittle or peeling
  • Course Skin that is dry and flakey
  • A yellow or pale skin pigment
  • Dark circles beneath your eyes
  • Orange colored calluses on the feet, ankles or hands
  • Acne
  • Skin Rash
  • Unusual skin conditions
  • A tendency to bruise easily

While we’ve covered a variety of thyroid symptoms in women, these are by no means the complete list.  Take from this information the fact that the thyroid gland is responsible for the workings of many different body systems, so it has a wide range of effects on the body. If you recognize any of these thyroid disease symptoms in yourself, take heed that you might be suffering from a thyroid disorder.

Thyroid Symptoms

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Thyroid symptoms are becoming almost commonplace in Americans.  In order to understand how these symptoms come about, let’s start by getting a good understanding of the purpose of the thyroid and how it works.

The thyroid gland is a relatively small, butterfly shaped gland located in the neck area.  Although it is small, it is quite powerful in its effect on different systems of the body.  Its function is to regulate the body’s metabolism. Another way of looking at the thyroid gland is to say, it helps to energize the cells of your body so that they can all carry out their own respective functions to the best of their ability.

For a number of reasons including poor diet and high stress levels, most people are hypothyroid to some degree. In fact, it’s estimated that about 40% of Americans experience one or more thyroid symptoms during their life.  These specific symptoms are caused when the gland is making too little of the specific hormones it is responsible to produce or if these hormones are not being properly converted and delivered to your cells.

Hypothyroidism can affect just about every major system in the body.  In women, thyroid symptoms often manifest with symptoms similar to conditions like menopause or PMS.  The test that is most often used, which is a test to estimate the amount of thyroid hormone that your thyroid gland is producing, is unfortunately, not always accurate. In fact, it is estimated that a good majority of patients who were suffering from thyroid symptoms, but tested negative on their thyroid test, have been misdiagnosed.

That’s why it is important to pay close attention to your body. It’s important to invest in yourself, and take an active role, in your own health.  Get to know your body and become aware of any signs or symptoms that might indicate that you would benefit from some sort of hypothyroidism treatment.

Let’s take a look at some of the more common thyroid symptoms

Most people suffering from a thyroid condition will find that they have one or more of the symptoms listed below:

  • Weight gain
  • Swollen neck
  • Spasms
  • Pressure headaches
  • Pain in the neck
  • Pain in the back
  • Muscle cramps
  • Migraine headaches
  • Loss of energy
  • Long term obesity
  • Joint pain or stiffness
  • Inability to lost weight
  • Goiter cold fingers, toes that just “don’t get warm.”
  • Foot, wrist or ankle pain
  • Fatigue
  • Carpal tunnel syndrome
  • Tendonitis

Stamina and Energy Related Thyroid Symptoms

thyroid symptomsIt is not unusual to chalk up the following list of symptoms to other causes, but if you see any symptoms that you recognize as your own, it would be a good idea to consider a problem with your thyroid.

  • Insomnia
  • Quality of sleep is poor
  • Waking up feeling unrested after a good night’s sleep
  • Difficultly getting out of bed in the morning even after a good night’s sleep
  • Frequent nightmares
  • Sleep Apnea
  • Excessive snoring
  • Night Sweats

Sensory Related Thyroid Symptoms

These symptoms are most often attributed to other conditions, however if you experience any of these for any length of time, keep in mind that you may be dealing with a thyroid problem.

  • Startled at loud unexpected noises
  • Slow reflexes
  • Slow reaction time
  • Sensitivity to sun or light from any other source
  • Sensitivity to hot or cold
  • Sensitive reaction to odors
  • Inability to concentrate
  • Blurred vision

Some thyroid symptoms are related to the various systems of the body. For example, the digestive and cardiac systems are two such areas which often have several symptoms at the same time or over a period of time.

Digestive Thyroid Symptoms

  • Swollen Tongue or Ridges on the tongue
  • Salt and/or sweet cravings
  • Loss of appetite
  • Liver/Gallbladder issues
  • Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
  • Hypoglycemia
  • Hemorrhoids
  • Food Allergies and Sensitivities
  • Excessive Gas
  • Difficulty Swallowing
  • Diabetes
  • Constipation
  • Chronic dry mouth
  • Bad Breath
  • Alcohol intolerance
  • Abdominal dissention

For women, thyroid symptoms often manifest themselves around your monthly cycle. In fact many of the symptoms that are normally attributed to menopause or pre-menstrual syndrome (PMS) are oftentimes caused by an unhealthy thyroid.

A problem thyroid can cause a considerable number of symptoms ranging from irregular menstruation related to infertility.  Below is a list of some of the thyroid symptoms that are related to women and their reproductive system.

Reproductive System Thyroid Symptoms

There is a vast range of reproductive system related symptoms that women may experience.  As mentioned before, oftentimes these are mistaken for menopause or pre-menopause and end up being diagnosed incorrectly. This is why so many women who take medications for their menopause symptoms or premenstrual difficulties often find no relief. The real problem is that they are experiencing thyroid symptoms.

Women:

  • Intense or chronic premenstrual syndrome (PMS)
  • Irregular menstrual cycles
  • Severe menstrual cramps
  • Infertility
  • History of miscarriage
  • Fibroids
  • Loss of libido
  • Longer, lighter or heavier menstrual cycles

Men can also experience thyroid symptoms in their reproductive system.

Men:

  • Decreased libido
  • Erectile dysfunction

It is extremely important to identify whether or not you have thyroid symptoms because when problems are left untreated, they don’t just go away, they tend to become worse.  As the condition progresses, you may find yourself suffering from some of the late stage thyroid symptoms, which can become not only chronic, but critical:

Late Stage Thyroid Symptoms

  • Goiter or a lump in your throat
  • Slow speech
  • Hoarse, crackling voice that sometimes becomes noticeably deep
  • Dry skinthyroid symptoms
  • Puffy face
  • Depression
  • Yellowing of the skin
  • Psychosis
  • Difficulty swallowing
  • Hair loss
  • Shortness of breath

If you have any of these thyroid symptoms and have had a test, but it came back negative, that doesn’t necessarily mean you don’t have thyroid symptoms.  Because the test for thyroid hormones is not always reliable the best course is to conduct a therapeutic trial.  This is a tried and true approach which leads to a correct diagnosis 100 percent of the time.  Not only is it accurate, but it is simple as well.

It involves following a thyroid treatment protocol, which includes eating the correct hypothyroidism diet and continuing to closely monitor symptoms.  If the symptoms improve, you can be certain that you have been dealing with thyroid symptoms.

Hypothyroidism Symptoms in Women

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When looking at the various hypothyroidism symptoms, the specific hypothyroidism symptoms in women are often difficult to discern because many are associated more closely with female hormone imbalances and no one makes the connection to hypothyroidism. But there’s actually a very strong connection.

Because of this, women are often misdiagnosed as having some other disorder when in reality they are experiencing hypothyroidism. Before we take a look at the specific hypothyroidism symptoms in women, let’s take a look at some of the causes of hypothyroidism that are often exclusive to women.

Common Causes of Hypothyroidism Symptoms in Women

Childbirth

Hypothyroidism can oftentimes be a result of childbirth. The placenta is largely responsible for producing the massive amounts of progesterone that helps protect the growing fetus throughout pregnancy. But after giving birth, your progesterone levels drop fairly drastically. And this drop can cause you to become hypothyroid.

For some women, their hormones re-regulate and the hypothyroidism is only temporary. But many women find that their hormones never quite return to normal and become stuck in a state of hypothyroidism.

Stress and Hypothyroidism Symptoms in Women

Like many medical conditions, stress is known to be a factor that contributes to thyroid dysfunction in a number of ways. Stress affects thyroid functioning through the sympathetic nervous system where it blocks the liver from converting inactive T4 thyroid hormone into its active T3 form.

A study done in the early 1990s on people who experienced chronic stress determined that there was a very high rate of hypothyroidism symptoms in women who participated in the study.

Of particular concern, is chronic adrenal stress, which is becoming more and more common today. Some symptoms of adrenal stress include:

  • Cravings for caffeine
  • Cravings for sugar
  • Dizziness when moving from sitting position or from lying to standing position
  • Feeling fatigued
  • Gastric Ulcers
  • Headaches
  • Insomnia
  • Mood swings

Use of Birth Control Pills

hypothyroidism symptoms in womenWomen who have a history of using birth control pills have a significant incidence of hypothyroidism due to their increased levels of synthetic estrogen and progestins. Therefore, if you have ever used birth control pills or are currently using them, and you have any sort of chronic symptoms, you may actually be suffering from hypothyroidism and not even know it.

Now that we’ve taken a look at some of the causes for hypothyroidism symptoms in women, let’s take a closer look at what some of those symptoms are and what systems they affect in women.

Common Hypothyroidism Symptoms in Women

Irregular Menstrual Cycles

One of the most significant of hypothyroidism symptoms in women is an irregular menstrual cycle.  Any history of menstrual periods which are unusually long, heavy, or more frequent than your regular cycle could be an indication that you have hypothyroidism.

Or another common sign related to the menstrual cycle is amenorrhea, or lack of a menstrual cycle.

Severe Menstrual Cramps

Every woman has painful menstrual cramps from time to time, however, if you find that your periods are becoming more painful each month, take into consideration that your painful cramps may really be one of the more common hypothyroidism symptoms in women.

Excessive Bleeding or Clotting

These are especially significant hypothyroidism symptoms in women if the bleeding or clotting is post-partum. But general clotting issues are commonly cause by increased levels of estrogen which is the common secondary effect of hypothyroidism.

Menopause

Many women going through menopause naturally assume that many of the symptoms that they happen to be experiencing are unavoidable and due to menopause itself. However, it is important to keep in mind that menopausal symptoms are almost always a result of estrogen dominance which is a secondary result of hypothyroidism.

hypothyroidism symptoms in womenIf the hormonal imbalance is not addressed, it can actually lead you further down the road of hypothyroidism.  Although on occasion, the condition is only temporary during the natural shift in hormones. But most women, if not already hypothyroid leading up to menopause, will go on to develop a lifelong clinical thyroid problem.

Keep in mind that just as you may not make the connection between menopause and hypothyroidism symptoms in women because you assume that your symptoms are menopausal are normal; your health practitioner may also miss the diagnosis as well.

Below is a list of hypothyroidism symptoms in women that can easily be misdiagnosed:

  • A history of miscarriage
  • Difficulty conceiving a child
  • Fibrocystic or “lumpy” breasts
  • Fibroids
  • Low sex drive

Many of these hormonal issues can be corrected naturally through the right hypothyroidism treatment protocol with a strong emphasis on a hypothyroidism diet.

The following list of hypothyroidism symptoms in women are those which have little or nothing to do with the reproductive system. Remember that hypothyroidism is really another way of saying that your cells aren’t efficiently producing energy. As such, many of the hypothyroidism symptoms in women are indicated by fatigue.

  • Allergies that suddenly appear or get worse
  • Brittle hair, itchy scalp, hair loss
  • Bruising/clotting problems
  • Constipation
  • Depression and depressed mood
  • Difficulty tolerating cold and lower body temperature
  • Dry skin, brittle nails
  • Elevated levels of LDL (the “bad” cholesterol) and heightened risk of heart disease
  • Hoarseness
  • Joint and muscle pain, headaches
  • Memory loss, fuzzy thinking, difficulty following conversation or train of thought
  • Persistent cold sores, boils, or breakouts
  • Puffiness in face and extremities
  • Severe fatigue, loss of energy
  • Sleeping more than average
  • Slowness or slurring of speech
  • Tingling sensation in wrists and hands that mimics carpal tunnel syndrome
  • Weight gain, difficulty losing weight

For more information on the various hypothyroidism symptoms, be sure to check out this comprehensive Hypothyroidism Symptom Checklist.

Unfortunately a single thyroid function test does not always give accurate results, which means it is possible that even if you have a negative result, it doesn’t mean that you don’t have a problem with your thyroid. The best way to determine if you have a healthy thyroid is by becoming aware of the many hypothyroidism symptoms in women and keeping track if you find yourself experiencing them.

Symptoms of Thyroid Problems

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If your thyroid gland stops making enough thyroid hormone, or if it begins to make too much, chances are fairly certain that you will eventually develop symptoms of thyroid problems.

Unfortunately, in its very early stages, hypothyroidism is usually without noticeable symptoms. Occasionally, a patient may have very mild symptoms such as a feeling of general tiredness or just a lack of energy. These are often wrongfully attributed to other conditions. However, as the thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) levels increase so do the symptoms of thyroid problems.

Because the disorder can progress to some serious and even life threatening conditions, it’s important that you have a good idea of what to look for when dealing with symptoms of thyroid problems.

There are several factors that can contribute to hypothyroidism. Some of these factors include estrogen dominance and liver dysfunction; however, it can just as easily be caused by increased stress.

Unfortunately, diagnosing hypothyroidism is not necessarily simple because not all tests for the disorder are accurate. In fact, many people are prone to receive a false negative result, when they would actually benefit greatly from the right hypothyroidism treatment. Because testing is not always reliable, it’s best to be personally aware of and take notice of any symptoms of thyroid problems to determine if you need further evaluation.

Symptoms of Thyroid Problems and Your Weight

symptoms of thyroid problemsWhen we hear the word hypothyroidism, we usually associate it with the body’s rate of metabolism.  Most people assume that if they aren’t having a problem with weight loss or weight gain, then their thyroid gland is working properly.  But, weight loss or gain, while certainly a factor in dealing with the thyroid gland, is just one of dozens of symptoms of thyroid problems.

These can range from problems with the digestive system to the autoimmune system, and even the body’s heart and circulatory system. Let’s take a look at these crucial body systems to see the effects of hypothyroidism and what it can lead to if it goes untreated.

Hypothyroid Symptoms of the Digestive System

Digestive problems are so common that most people just assume they are going to have to deal with them at one time or another during their life.  While many of these symptoms can easily go unnoticed, or be attributed to another condition, many digestive disorders are really just symptoms of thyroid problems.

Keep in mind how important the digestive system is when it comes to turning the foods we consume into energy.  Without a healthy digestive system, we run the risk of not only doing damage to our body, but also we leave ourselves open developing deficiencies that further damage your thyroid and cause even more symptoms.

That’s why it’s so important to be aware of any problems we experience and determine if they are really symptoms of thyroid problems.

You will notice from this list of symptoms that the problems can be found all along the digestive track from the mouth and tongue, all the way through the body and bowels.

Watch for these symptoms of thyroid problems:

  • Loss of appetite
  • Food allergies
  • Food sensitivities
  • Swollen tongue
  • Ridges on the tongue
  • Dry mouth
  • Cravings for salt
  • Cravings for sweets
  • Bad breath
  • Difficulty swallowing
  • Excessive gas
  • Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
  • Liver and or gallbladder problems
  • Diabetes

Symptoms of Thyroid Problems Associated with Your Immune system

The immune system is the body’s best defense against disease and infection. Once the immune system is compromised by ongoing symptoms of thyroid problems, the body is open to any number of immune system diseases.

Keep in mind that the immune system is basically the army inside of our bodies that is well organized and trained to find and destroy any invaders.  It is especially crucial that the immune system be in good working condition in order for it to determine the difference between cells that are invading the body with an illness and the body’s own natural health cells.

If, for any reason, your immune system fails to function properly, the result can be that the body’s cells react against itself. This is what causes autoimmune disease. For this reason, it is important to be aware of any symptoms of thyroid problems which can affect your immune system.

Let’s take a look at some of the immune system symptoms of thyroid problems to be aware of:

  • Urinary tract infections (UTI) especially if they are recurring
  • Upper respiratory infections, especially if they are recurring
  • Fungal infections
  • Rheumatoid arthritis
  • Asthma
  • Lupus
  • Candida Infections
  • Multiple Sclerosis
  • Any autoimmune disease
  • Cancer

Symptoms of Thyroid Problems Associated with Your Heart

One of the greatest concerns of hypothyroidism is its effect on the heart and in turn the circulatory system.  The disorder is sometimes associated with an increased risk of heart disease because of high levels of the bad cholesterol (low-density lipoprotein) LDL which often occurs in people with hypothyroidism. Statistics have recently indicated that even a mild form of hypothyroidism can cause an increase in total cholesterol levels.

Of major concern is that this can impair the circulation of blood through your heart.  The disorder has also been associated with an enlarged heart and in extreme cases, heart failure, which is why it is so important to know the symptoms of thyroid problems.

Some of these heart related symptoms include:

  • High cholesterolsymptoms of thyroid problems
  • High blood pressure
  • Low blood pressure
  • Slow or Weak pulse (less than 60 beats per minute (bpm)
  • Fast or racing pulse (more than 90 beats per minute (bpm)
  • Issues with clotting
  • Bleeding irregularities
  • Heart Disease
  • Enlarged Heart

Another important factor to keep in mind is that having relatives with any of the above symptoms of thyroid problems increases your risk for the condition as well. There are many factors involved such as the health of your mother at birth, your diet, stress levels, and others. And many of these factors are commonly shared among family.

But that doesn’t necessarily mean that all family members will develop any or all of the symptoms of thyroid problems. It just makes you more susceptible. So, even if you don’t suffer from many of the different signs of thyroid problems, it’s all the more reason to start eating the best hypothyroidism diet to help ensure that you keep it that way.

Symptoms of Hypothyroidism

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When you consider how tiny the thyroid gland really is, you may find it surprising that it can be responsible for such a large number of associated symptoms of hypothyroidism.  We tend to think of hypothyroidism mostly in terms of our metabolism and its connection to our ability to lose or gain weight, but it’s really so much more.

The thyroid gland, which is often compared to the shape of a butterfly, manufactures important and necessary hormones the human body needs in order to remain in optimal health. Most important, the gland must produce these hormones in exactly the right amount.

If the thyroid isn’t making enough of these hormones, which is quite common, the body can develop any of the various symptoms of hypothyroidism. Unfortunately, there are so many symptoms of hypothyroidism that are wrongfully attributed to other disorders, it is often overlooked and the hypothyroidism diagnosis is missed.

Flaw in Hypothyroidism Testing

Because of flaws in the currently used testing methods, many people are misdiagnosed due to inaccurate negative test results. And their health care provider never associates their complaints with the symptoms of hypothyroidism.

The consequence is that many patients, who would benefit from the right treatment for hypothyroidism, are given other medications and treatments which are unnecessary and oftentimes dangerous.  Because of this, a thorough knowledge of the many symptoms of hypothyroidism is the only absolute approach for an accurate diagnosis of hypothyroidism.

There is an approach which is not only quite simple, but always leads to a correct diagnosis. It involves a therapeutic trial wherein the patient simply follows a proper hypothyroidism treatment protocol. It includes eating the correct diet for hypothyroidism and closely monitoring symptoms. If your symptoms improve, you can rest assured your suspicions about having Hypothyroidism are correct.

Symptoms of Hypothyroidism by Category

Symptoms of hypothyroidism are numerous and involve several systems of the body.  Before we take a look at some of the signs you need to be aware of, keep in mind that in its early stages, hypothyroidism usually has very mild symptoms that can easily be overlooked.

Eventually, however, as hormone levels worsen, symptoms will become more apparent.  Also keep in mind that the condition is more prevalent in women than in men and especially in women over the age of 50.

Below, I’ve broken down the symptoms of hypothyroidism by simple categories according to the system they affect.

Muscle and Joint Problems

Hypothyroidism has a tendency to create muscle or joint-related complications.  Symptoms of hypothyroidism can range from a mild sense of weakness in your arms to the debilitating condition known as carpel tunnel. Any of the following symptoms could actually be pointing to hypothyroidism.

  • A general sense of weaknesssymptoms of hypothyroidism
  • Carpal tunnel (pain, tingling, burning and discomfort in your wrist)
  • Cramps or stiffness
  • Discomfort in your toes
  • Joint pain and aches
  • Muscular weakness
  • Muscular pain
  • Tarsal tunnel syndrome (pain, tingling, burning, and discomfort in the arch of your foot
  • Tendonitis (legs or arms)

Voice, Neck and Throat Problems

The following hypothyroidism symptoms often begin with a sense of swelling or fullness in the neck.  As the disorder progresses, you may develop a noticeable swollen neck or goiter.

  • Hoarse or gravelly voice
  • Swollen neck or swollen area in the neck
  • Goiter
  • Pain in neck region
  • Noticeably enlarged thyroid

Eye Problems

Eye problems related to hypothyroidism are often misdiagnosed. Many people have a tendency to attribute blurred vision and dry eyes to growing older, but oftentimes hormonal imbalances can play a significant role. So, your eye issues could be just other symptoms of hypothyroidism.

  • Blurred vision
  • Dry and gritty eyes
  • Heavy Eyelids
  • Puffy eyes
  • Sensitivity to light and/or the sun

Heart Problems

As you can see from this list of cardiac disorders, untreated hypothyroidism can lead to serious and life threatening conditions.

  • Clotting/Bleeding issues
  • Fast pulse (over 90 BPM)
  • Heart Disease
  • Heart Palpitations
  • High Blood Pressure
  • High Cholesterol
  • Low Blood Pressure
  • Slow pulse (under 60 BPM)

Sleep Problems

Generally, sleep disorders go hand in hand with hypothyroidism.  Any of the following may be symptoms of hypothyroidism.

  • Difficulty getting out of bed in the morningsymptoms of hypothyroidism
  • Excessive snoring
  • Feeling unrested when waking up
  • Frequent nightmares
  • Insomnia
  • Night Sweats
  • Poor quality of sleep
  • Sleep apnea

Energy Problems

One of the most common symptoms of hypothyroidism is a sense of being tired all the time.  In fact, fatigue is often the first symptom noticed by someone suffering from multiple hypothyroid symptoms.

  • Afternoon energy crash
  • Always feeling fatigued
  • Feeling exhausted after 8 to 10 hours of sleep
  • Inability to exercise
  • Inability to get through a day without a nap
  • Loss of stamina

Hair, Skin and Nail Problems

Your hair and skin are especially susceptible to thyroid conditions.  Brittle nails that tend to break, or hair that changes from normal to coarse and dry, especially if it falls out or breaks off could actually be symptoms of hypothyroidism.

  • Brittle Hair
  • Hair Loss
  • Loss of Eyelashes
  • Skin that becomes dry and coarse
  • Unusual loss of eyebrow hair
  • Brittle nails that break easily

Symptoms Specifically for Women

Thyroid hormones function in many different parts of the female body, including the reproductive system.  Many women find themselves suffering from any number of the following symptoms of hypothyroidism.

  • Fibroids
  • Infertility
  • Loss of Libido
  • Painful periods
  • PMS
  • Postpartum thyroid difficulties, especially in conjunction with depression
  • Repeated miscarriage
  • Severe menstrual cramps
  • Unusual menstrual periods – increased flow, more frequent periods

Symptoms Specifically for Men

Similarly, the thyroid hormones are important to the male reproductive system as well.  As with many of the signs and symptoms of hypothyroidism, they are often overlooked and attributed to some other disorder.

  • Erectile dysfunction
  • Loss of libido

Mental and Emotional Problems

Unfortunately, a considerable number of problems related to your mental and emotional health can actually be caused by a thyroid that isn’t producing the accurate balance of hormones.

  • ADD/ADHD
  • Antisocial behavior
  • Bipolar tendencies
  • Confusion, restlessness, poor concentration
  • Depression
  • Difficulty learning new things
  • Easily upset
  • Epilepsy or seizures
  • Lack of confidence
  • Light headedness, vertigo or dizziness
  • Loss of motivation
  • Mood swings
  • Panic attacks
  • Phobias
  • Slow speech,
  • Trembling, Jittery or shivery feeling Lack of coordination

Immune Related Symptoms of Hypothyroidism

As you can see from this list, hypothyroidism can lead to some very severe medical conditions. Unfortunately, these are often misdiagnosed and the real problem is overlooked.

  • Asthma
  • Cancer
  • Autoimmune Disease
  • Fungal and Candida infections
  • Lupus
  • Multiple Sclerosis
  • Recurring upper respiratory infections
  • Recurring urinary tract infections
  • Rheumatoid Arthritis

Digestive Problems

As with the other systems in the human body, digestive disorders can be annoying, and in some cases lead to more severe conditions that can become chronic and serious.  If you suffer from any of these symptoms of hypothyroidism, consider the fact that your thyroid may be the problem.

  • Abdominal distention
  • Alcohol intolerance
  • Bad breath
  • Constipation
  • Cravings for salt
  • Cravings for sweets
  • Diabetes
  • Difficulty swallowing
  • Dry mouth
  • Excessive gas
  • Food allergies and sensitivities
  • Hemorrhoids
  • Hypoglycemia
  • Irritable bower syndrome (IBS)
  • Liver/gallbladder issues
  • Loss of appetite
  • Swollen tongue or ridges on tongue

Believe it or not, this is only a partial list of the many symptoms of hypothyroidism. If you are suffering from any of these health problems and haven’t been able to track down the cause, it’s time to consider hypothyroidism as a real legitimate possibility. Remember, even if you’ve had a thyroid tested and it came back negative, that doesn’t necessarily mean you don’t suffer from hypothyroidism.

Hypothyroid Symptoms

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If you’ve had concerns that you may be suffering from hypothyroid symptoms, but your physician hasn’t been able to give you an accurate diagnosis, you may want to familiarize yourself with the common signs and symptoms that indicate the disorder so you can determine if you are, in fact, suffering from hypothyroidism.

First of all, keep in mind that the TSH level testing that is currently available is not really a foolproof method for determining if one has hypothyroidism.

Although most of the medical community continues to use these tests, the reality is that the best way to determine if you have hypothyroidism is to take a close look at the various hypothyroid symptoms and see if any match the symptoms you are experiencing. Then you can start a hypothyroid treatment program and note any improvement in your hypothyroidism symptoms which will verify your diagnosis.

Early Signs of Hypothyroid Symptoms

Another good indication of hypothyroidism is to take a look to see if you had any of the hypothyroid symptoms when you were a child.  Often, symptoms begin in childhood and can be the first clue to getting an accurate diagnosis.

When this disorder presents itself in childhood, chances are fairly certain that the amount of symptoms and the degree of their intensity will increase with age.  If you remember having any of the following symptoms when you were younger, it may have been an early indicator that you were unknowingly suffering from hypothyroid symptoms.

If, as you read through the list you discover that as a child you had any of these hypothyroid symptoms, even if you’ve had a TSH test and it came back negative, it may be a good idea to take another look at your health to determine if you have hypothyroidism.

Psychological Hypothyroid Symptoms

Some of the most frustrating symptoms of hypothyroidism have to do with the ability to concentrate.  This is especially debilitating in children. The following is a list of symptoms which are often the first indication that a child has hypothyroidism. As you go through them, keep track of any that you remember suffering from when you were a child.

  • ADD/ADHDpsychological hypothyroid symptoms
  • Difficulty in remembering things
  • Difficulty learning new concepts
  • Trouble wrapping your head around new ideas
  • A feeling that your thought process has slowed down
  • Difficulty concentrating
  • Feelings of restlessness
  • Often feeling sad or depressed
  • Mood swings
  • Feeling nervous
  • Colors seem flat rather than vivid
  • A tendency to avoid social situations whenever possible
  • Having thoughts that don’t seem normal
  • Feeling shy, even around people you know
  • Loss of interest in doing your daily routine
  • No desire to try new things
  • Diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder
  • Diagnosed with any form of psychosis

As you can see from the hypothyroid symptoms listed above, many have to do with the concept of learning which is crucial for children who are attending school. Unfortunately, many medical professionals fail to consider hypothyroidism when seeking a diagnosis for children who have learning disabilities.

The result is that many of these young people are misdiagnosed and being treated for other conditions, when in reality they are suffering from hypothyroid symptoms.

Along with learning and concentrating difficulties, hypothyroidism can also be responsible when a child just doesn’t feel well much of the time, or misses a lot of school with a variety of complaints. If, when you think back to your childhood, and you remember that you were often visiting the doctor’s office, then perhaps the problems you’re suffering with now, are really hypothyroid symptoms.

Psysiological Hypothyroid Symptoms

The following list indicates many of the physiological hypothyroid symptoms found in children:

  • Allergieshypothyroid symptoms
  • Gum infections
  • A tendency for tooth decay
  • Having a hoarse or gravelly voice
  • Frequent nightmares
  • Sore feet
  • Muscle spasms or cramps during physical exercise
  • Difficulty annunciating words
  • Slow speech
  • Not a good eater
  • Being underweight or overweight even when eating a healthy diet
  • Constipation
  • A sensitivity to odors, esp. perfumes, candles, smoke, etc.
  • Complains of ringing in the ears
  • Yellowing of skin
  • Delayed development of permanent teeth
  • An increased sensitivity to cold
  • A large protruding tongue
  • Early or late sexual development
  • Frequent choking
  • Poor muscle tone
  • Excessive sleepiness

Again, if you recall having any of these hypothyroid symptoms as a child, there is a strong possibility that you may still be feeling the effects of thyroid problems. Adult symptoms include all those above, but also many others that range from being mildly annoying to serious, and on rare occasion, life threatening.

Commonly Missed Hypothyroid Symptoms in Adults

Statistics indicate that at least 60 million Americans suffer from hypothyroid symptoms, but have no idea what is causing their discomfort.

Keep in mind that while there are many signs and symptoms of the disorder, you don’t have to have all of them in order to have a significantly dysfunctional thyroid.  Also note that symptoms are often related because of the damage suffered by the various systems in the body.

For example:

Cholesterol Problems 

When high cholesterol doesn’t respond to ordinary treatments such as a change in diet or an increase in exercise, it can be one of the signs of hypothyroidism.

Weight Problems

People with hypothyroid symptoms often find that even if they stick to a strict weight-loss diet, they just can’t seem to lose any amount of weight.  For example, you may have joined a gym program or belong to a weight loss support group, and have become discouraged because everyone else in the group seems to be losing reasonable amounts of weight, but you haven’t shed one pound. This could be an indicator that your difficulty losing weight is actually one of the classic signs of hypothyroidism and that the right hypothyroidism diet may be the answer to your frustration. And weight loss becomes much easier when you starting eating the right hypothyroid diet.

Depression

If you experience depression over a considerable period of time or you just can’t seem to shake off a case of the blues, it may be an indication of hypothyroid symptoms.  This is especially true for people who do not respond to antidepressant medications.  Also, women who have post-partum depression are sometimes actually experiencing the onset of hypothyroidism which is very common postpartum.

Exhaustion

hypothyroid symptomsEveryone finds themselves feeling fatigued now and then, but if you never seem to feel energetic no matter how much sleep you get, hypothyroidism might be the problem.  This is really a double edged sword because hypothyroid symptoms include insomnia, which leaves you feeling even more exhausted during the day.

If you’re getting 8 to 10 solid hours of sleep at night, and you find you just can’t function without a daily nap, you may actually be suffering from a thyroid disorder.

This list of signs and symptoms is not all inclusive. Because hypothyroidism can affect so many different hormones and organs, most all of the body’s systems are at risk when the thyroid gland is not functioning properly.

Despite this fact, hypothyroid symptoms are often overlooked or misdiagnosed.  Since testing is not always a true indicator of the condition it is important you have a good understanding of these symptoms that could be creating health problems.