Symptoms Of Thyroid Problems
Some Symptoms of Thyroid Problems
Until we experience some of the symptoms of thyroid problems we usually aren't even aware of this very important gland of what it does. The thyroid gland acts as a regulator or pacesetter for many bodily functions, right down to the cellular level. Consequently, when the thyroid gland starts acting up the consequences can be widespread with a correspondingly wide variety of symptoms.
Many of these symptoms are by no means unique to problems in the thyroid. In the event of muscular weakness or more frequent bowel activity, weight loss (or gain) and other symptoms, we don't usually run to the doctor who immediately diagnoses our problem as a thyroid condition. More often than not the symptoms have to become somewhat severe before tests are taken and the true source is revealed.
What are the most common symptoms of thyroid problems? That depends of course upon what is wrong with the thyroid gland which can be one of a number of things. Let's begin with the most common problem, hypothyroidism, the underachieving thyroid. The thyroid gland is responsible for producing two hormones very important to our bodily functions and when these hormones are produced in the proper balance everything is fine. In the case of hypothyroidism an insufficient supply of these hormones is being produced. The net effect is a slowing down of bodily activity down to the cellular level.
Common symptoms include difficulty in losing weight as metabolism slows down, periods of depression, higher levels of cholesterol, constipation and in women, more frequent and painful menstrual periods. The condition of the hair and skin is also a telltale sign. Hair may become brittle and fall out and the skin may be dry and flakey.
Since the thyroid acts as a regulator it may come as no surprise that a hyperactive or overactive thyroid will cause symptoms that in many cases behave in opposition to symptoms caused by a hypoactive thyroid. If you have an overactive thyroid you may have difficulty in gaining rate as your metabolism is speeding up. Periods of anxiety rather than depression may occur and cholesterol levels may be uncharacteristically low. Women may experience lighter and less regular menstrual periods. Rather than constipation, a person with an overactive thyroid may suffer from diarrhea attacks and irritable bowel syndrome.
An enlarged or swollen thyroid is also a symptom of some underlying problem and may result from one of several causes, the most frequently being a lack of iodine intake. The thyroid uses iodine in its production of hormones and when lacking the pituitary gland stimulates the thyroid to increase production and swelling occurs. The thyroid can also become swollen due to a condition known as Grave's disease. This disease is an auto immune disorder over stimulating the thyroid gland and causing it to swell. This is not a painful condition. Pregnancy is another cause due to an increased production of hormones in the woman's body. This is generally a mild condition with only a slight swelling taking place. A more painful situation can occur with the onset of thyroiditis, an inflammation of the thyroid gland. The inflammation can be the result of either an under active or overactive thyroid condition.
These symptoms of thyroid problems are the most commonly experienced and if you experience any one with a market degree of severity or experience more than one you should of course consult with your doctor. Like in other ailments, early detection and treatment is preferable to treatment required in a more advanced stage.