Your thyroid regulates hormones in your body. When your thyroid is not functioning properly, there are many signs and symptoms that may go unnoticed if you don't know what to look for.
Instructions
1. It is important to remember that many of the signs and symptoms of a thyroid disorder such as hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism are similar to other conditions so it is important to report any of these symptoms to your doctor for evaluation and possible testing.
2. If you are gaining weight or losing weight without trying or changing your eating habits, a thyroid condition may be the cause. A sluggish thyroid will slow your metabolism and an over producing thyroid may increase your metabolism.
3. Exhaustion or general fatigue may also be a clue that there is an issue with your thyroid.
4. For women, any changes in your menstrual cycle should be discussed with your physician. While very often changes in menstruation are normal, a heavy or irregular period is sometimes a symptom of a thyroid problem that needs to be addressed.
5. Bothersome constipation is also symptom of a slow thyroid. Constipation is normal from time to time but if you are experiencing regular episodes of constipation, a visit to your physician is a good idea. Constipation may also be a serious symptom of other disorders so it is important to discuss this with your doctor. Remember, there is no need to feel uncomfortable or embarrassed about this either.
6. Puffiness or swelling of the hands, feet and face may suggest an issue with the thyroid.
7. Loss of hair especially on the head and eyebrows is a common complaint among men and women with thyroid conditions.
(Interestingly enough, my dentist pointed out my hair loss on my eyebrows while I was being treated and tested by a physician for my thyroid who did not notice)
8. If you feel any bumps in your neck, you may have thyroid nodules caused by a hyperthyroid or hypothyroid. Sometimes a nodule in your neck will make it difficult to swallow or will cause your voice to go hoarse.
It is important to have any bumps in your neck evaluated immediately by a physician because this may be a sign of a more serious condition.
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