Thyroid problems effect your body’s ability to regulate metabolism. The main problems associated with the thyroid are an underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism) and an overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism). Thyroid problems can produce a range of symptoms.

The thyroid is a small gland which is located in the neck. The thyroid gland produces the hormones required by the body to regulate metabolism. When your metabolism is not working correctly, it effects the ability of your body to transform food into energy.

It is estimated that over 30% of women over 35 will develop a thyroid disorder. Women are 10 times as likely to have a thyroid problem than men.

There is no definite answer to why a thyroid can become problematic. Experts often suggest that it can be caused by a number of factors including:

• Pregnancy
• Stress
• Genetics
• Nutritional deficiencies
• An autoimmune attack
• Toxins in the environment

What is an underactive thyroid gland (hypothyroidism)?

An underactive thyroid gland means that your thyroid gland is not producing enough hormones. This can usually result in depression, weight gain or tiredness.

The most common symptoms of hypothyroidism include:

• Depression
• Weight gain
• Dry skin and hair
• Tiredness
• Aching muscles
• Sensitivity to the cold

There is no cure for an underactive thyroid but you can help raise thyroxine levels by taking hormone replacement tablets (levothyroxine). This treatment will usually be required to continue throughout your lifetime.

What is an overactive thyroid gland (hyperthyroidism)?

When the thyroid gland produces too much thyroid hormones it can speed up the body’s metabolism. This causes a range of problems including weight loss and nervousness.

The symptoms of an overactive thyroid varies from person to person. But some of the common symptoms include:

• Weight loss
• Nervous energy / hyperactivity
• Anxiety
• Swelling of the thyroid gland

There are a number of treatments available for hyperthyroidism. Controlling of the symptoms of hyperthyroidism is usually achieved using one of the following treatments:

• Thionamides
• Radioiodine treatment
• Surgery

Do I have a thyroid Problem?

 

There are a number of symptoms associated with thyroid problems. Many of these are similar to other conditions, so a thyroid problem may go unnoticed for many years.

If you notice one or more of the following complaints, contact your doctor to ask for a thyroid test.

I feel exhausted all the time:

If you are feeling tired in the morning following a good night’s sleep, this may mean that you have a thyroid which is underactive. When your body does not produce enough thyroid hormone your muscles are not getting the adequate signals to keep you energised.

I feel anxious:

If you have hyperthyroidism, it can send messages throughout your body to become more active. This can lead to a feeling of anxiety and not being able to relax.

I feel depressed:

If you find that you are feeling unhappy it may mean that the chemicals that make you feel good (serotonin) is not reaching your brain. It is thought that an underactive thyroid gland can impact the amount of serotonin produced.

I am having trouble getting pregnant:

Both an overactive and an underactive thyroid can result in problems getting pregnant.

My appetite has changed:

An overactive thyroid can make you feel hungry all the time. This may not result in weight gain since your metabolism will also have increased.

I have high cholesterol levels:

An underactive thyroid can result in higher levels of lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol which can lead to heart problems.

I have unpredictable bowels:

A slowdown in thyroid hormones can result in a slow down in the digestive process. It is common for hypothyroidism to lead to constipation.

 I find it hard to focus:

An increase in thyroid activity (hyperthyroidism) can make it hard to concentrate properly. A thyroid which is not producing enough hormone (hypothyroidism)can result in forgetfulness and a foggy feeling when trying to think.

I have gained weight:

An unusual weight gain which is not a result of eating more than usual can be caused by an underactive thyroid.

My periods have changed:

Hypothyroidism can result in cramps or longer menstrual periods with a heavier flow.

I have mysterious pains in my muscles:

Thyroids which produce too little hormone may damage the nerves that send signals to your brain. This can result in unexplained pains in your arms or legs.

I have high blood pressure:

Both hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism can result in high blood pressure. People with hypothyroidism are also at more risk of developing hypertension.

My heart is fluttering:

A quickened heart may be the result of an overactive thyroid. If you have hyperthyroidism you may also notice this fluttering feeling in your throat, neck, chest or pulse.

I have a hoarse neck:

If you notice a lump in your throat or a change in your voice, you may have a thyroid disorder. The thyroid area is located below the Adams apple. Watch for any bulges around this area.

I don’t get enough sleep:

A slow thyroid can make people feel tired all the time and in need of sleep. People with an over active thyroid will prevent you from sleeping at night.

My hair is becoming thin:

People with hypothyroidism may experience brittle hair or hair loss. People with hyperthyroidism may experience a thinning of their hair.

I feel too cold or too hot:

People with hypothyroidism often feel cold or get cold chills. This is due to less energy being burned to create body heat. People with hyperthyroidism may experience increased sweating or feeling to warm.

My skin is dry:

Itchy and dry skin may be caused by a lower metabolism resulting from hypothyroidism. Too little thyroid will reduce sweat and dry up your skin.

Further reading

Read more about underactive thyroid problems (hypothyroidism)

Read more about overactive thyroid problems (hyperthyroidism)

Visit the British Thyroid Foundation website.