The thyroid, a small but powerful gland, plays a major role in regulating metabolism, energy, and overall well-being. But what happens when it malfunctions? Many people experience unexplained weight changes, fatigue, or mood swings without realizing their thyroid could be the cause. Could this be affecting you? Recognizing the two most common thyroid disorders may be key to improving health.
Consult with a thyroid doctor in New York today!
What Are the Symptoms of Common Thyroid Disorders?
Symptoms of thyroid disorders vary depending on the condition. Identifying them early can help with timely diagnosis and treatment.
Some general symptoms of thyroid problems include:
- Unexplained weight changes
- Extreme fatigue
- Mood swings (anxiety, irritability, or depression)
- Skin and hair problems (dry skin, brittle hair, or excessive hair loss)
- Sensitivity to temperature changes (always feeling too cold or too hot)
- Enlarged thyroid (visible swelling in the neck)
- Heart irregularities (fast or slow heartbeat, palpitations)
- Menstrual irregularities (heavy, irregular, or light periods)
- Muscle and joint pain
- Difficulty swallowing or breathing (tightness in the neck)
- Excessive sweating or cold, clammy skin
- Hand or finger tremors
- Hoarseness or voice changes
Early diagnosis and treatment can greatly improve quality of life. If several of these symptoms occur, seeking medical advice is recommended.
1. Hypothyroidism (Underactive Thyroid)
Hypothyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland does not produce enough hormones. This condition can affect multiple body functions and cause significant symptoms.
| Symptom | Description |
| Weight gain | Increased weight despite no changes in diet or activity |
| Constipation | Less frequent bowel movements |
| Slow heart rate | Decreased heart rate |
| Dry skin and hair | Skin and hair becoming brittle and dehydrated |
| Cold sensitivity | Feeling cold even in mild temperatures |
| Fatigue | Extreme tiredness and lack of energy |
| Joint and muscle pain | Stiffness or persistent discomfort |
| Irregular menstruation | Heavy or irregular periods, potential infertility |
Causes of Hypothyroidism
- Autoimmune diseases: Hashimoto’s thyroiditis is the most common cause.
- Thyroid surgery: Removing all or part of the thyroid may lead to hypothyroidism.
- Radiation therapy: Radiation in the neck area can impact thyroid function.
- Thyroid inflammation: Infections or autoimmune diseases can cause thyroiditis.
- Medications: Certain drugs, such as lithium, can reduce hormone production.
- Iodine deficiency: A lack of iodine in the diet can trigger hypothyroidism.
- Pituitary disorders: Issues with the pituitary gland can affect thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) production.
- Pregnancy: In some cases, hypothyroidism develops during pregnancy, increasing health risks.
Those at higher risk include:
- Women over 60
- Individuals with a family history of thyroid disease
- People with autoimmune conditions such as type 1 diabetes or celiac disease
- Those who have had neck radiation therapy or thyroid surgery
If persistent symptoms occur, it is advisable to see a specialist for a proper evaluation.
2. Hyperthyroidism (Overactive Thyroid)
Hyperthyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland produces more hormones than the body needs. These hormones regulate breathing, heart rate, weight, digestion, and mood.
| Symptom | Description |
| Weight loss | Losing weight despite normal eating habits |
| Fatigue | Extreme exhaustion |
| Rapid or irregular heartbeat | Increased or erratic heart rate |
| Excessive sweating | Sweating more than usual |
| Diarrhea | More frequent bowel movements |
| Nervousness | Constant anxiety or restlessness |
| Mood swings | Sudden emotional changes |
| Hand tremors | Involuntary shaking in the hands or fingers |
| Sleep problems | Difficulty falling or staying asleep |
| Heat intolerance | Feeling excessively warm |
Causes of Hyperthyroidism
- Overactive thyroid nodules: Benign growths that produce excess hormones
- Thyroid inflammation: Causes stored hormones to be released
- Excessive iodine intake: High levels of iodine in diet or supplements
- Overuse of thyroid medications: Taking too much hormone replacement therapy
People at higher risk include:
- Women over 60
- Those with a family history of thyroid disorders
- Individuals with type 1 diabetes or pernicious anemia
Hyperthyroidism requires medical evaluation and treatment to prevent complications. Persistent symptoms should prompt a visit to a specialist.
3. Graves’ Disease
Graves’ disease is an autoimmune disorder that leads to excessive thyroid hormone production, affecting multiple body functions.
| Symptom | Description |
| Increased appetite | Constant hunger despite weight loss |
| Weight loss | Reduced weight without diet changes |
| Irregular heartbeat | Fast or abnormal heart rhythm |
| Chest pain | Discomfort or pressure in the chest |
| Fatigue | Severe exhaustion |
| Hand tremors | Involuntary shaking |
| Eye problems | Double vision, irritation, or bulging eyes |
| Menstrual irregularities | Changes in the menstrual cycle |
| Skin swelling or discoloration | Swollen or discolored skin |
Graves’ disease occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks the thyroid, causing excessive hormone production.
4. Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis
Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, also called Hashimoto’s disease, is an autoimmune condition that inflames the thyroid gland and can lead to hypothyroidism.
| Symptom | Description |
| Fatigue | Extreme tiredness |
| Weight gain | Increase in weight without lifestyle changes |
| Constipation | Reduced bowel movement frequency |
| Dry skin | Rough, dehydrated skin |
| Depression | Persistent low mood |
| Difficulty exercising | Lack of strength or endurance |
| Swollen face | Facial puffiness |
| Hand and foot swelling | Fluid retention in extremities |
| Brittle nails | Nails becoming thick and fragile |
| Slow heart rate | Decreased heart rate |
Causes and Risk Factors
- Genetics: A family history of thyroid disorders increases risk.
- Environmental factors: Infections, stress, and radiation exposure can contribute.
- Combination of genetics and environment: The interplay of genetic predisposition and external triggers can lead to Hashimoto’s.
Hashimoto’s disease can remain stable for years. With proper treatment, symptoms can be managed effectively, but ongoing monitoring is essential to adjust therapy and prevent complications.
Moving Forward with Thyroid Awareness
Raising awareness about thyroid health helps people recognize the significance of this gland and its potential disorders. World Thyroid Day, observed on May 25, promotes public education and early diagnosis.
The thyroid, a butterfly-shaped gland in the neck, produces hormones that regulate metabolism, heart rate, and energy levels. When thyroid function is disrupted, it can lead to serious health problems.
Thyroid disorders include hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, thyroid nodules, and thyroid cancer. These conditions can cause symptoms ranging from fatigue and weight fluctuations to mood swings and cardiovascular issues. Regular medical checkups and thyroid function tests, such as TSH and T4 measurements, help detect problems early and ensure proper treatment.
Maintaining thyroid health involves a balanced lifestyle. A nutrient-rich diet with minimal processed foods, regular physical activity, and effective stress management support proper thyroid function. Avoiding excessive iodine intake, tobacco, and alcohol can also reduce thyroid-related risks. If symptoms or a family history indicate a potential thyroid issue, consulting a specialist for evaluation and care is essential.
Sources:
- Parangi, S., & Phitayakorn, R. (2010). Thyroid disease. Bloomsbury Publishing USA.
- Skugor, M. (2006). Thyroid Disorders: A Cleveland Clinic Guide. Cleveland Clinic Press.