The thyroid is a small gland which has a huge job; it keeps things running right on schedule within your body. This little butterfly-shaped gland tells your organs what to do and when to do it. Even your metabolism and body temperature are regulated by the thyroid. If you haven’t been feeling yourself lately, you might want to take a look at the following 7 signs you may have a thyroid problem. These are always good to be aware of.
Anxiety and panic attacks is seen in people with hyperthyroidism. Depression is more common in people with hypothyroidism. Sometimes antidepressants aren’t able to ward off signs and symptoms of depression either, which is a good sign your thyroid needs to be check out.
Is it uncomfortable to wear neckties or turtlenecks? A swollen thyroid can make not only clothing feel constricting and unpleasant to wear, but it often causes hoarseness when speaking. If there is a noticeable swelling around the neck area, then it’s time to head to the doctor to see what’s up!
Another one of the 7 signs you may have a thyroid problem is when high cholesterol is still present even while medication is being taken to lower your levels. Hypothyroidism causes high levels of cholesterol, while hyperthyroidism causes rather low levels.
People with thyroid problems generally feel more tired than usual, even after 10 hours of sleep or more. Feeling the need to nap multiple times during the day or constantly feeling lethargic are both signs to see your doctor about. If hyperthyroidism is the issue, then insomnia might be present. When insomnia occurs, you’ll end up feeling utterly exhausted all day long.
You may not think that the ‘other end’ would be affected by your thyroid, but it certainly can be. Irritable Bowel Syndrome, or IBS, has been found to be connected to hyperthyroidism, with constipation being associated with hypothyroidism.
Dry, scaly patches or skin that becomes thin and delicate are associated with hyperthyroidism. Not only do noticeable skin changes start to occur, but hair loss tends to become much more noticeable. Oddly enough, hypothyroidism can cause hair loss on the outer portion of the eyebrow and much of your hair becomes extremely brittle.
Have you been on a diet lately and still not been able to lose weight? People who have hypothyroidism tend to have a difficult time losing any weight at all. On the opposite hand, people suffering from hyperthyroidism lose weight while still maintaining the same diet. Noticeable weight gain or loss both could signify a problem with your thyroid.
Out of this list of 7 signs you may have a thyroid problem, have you noticed any of them lately?
Top Photo Credit: Mercola Natural Health