The thyroid is a butterfly-shaped gland which is located at the front of the neck. It is part of the endocrine system and is responsible for producing hormones, like thyroxine and triiodothyronine, influencing a wide range of functions, from energy levels and metabolism to mood and heart rate.
When the thyroid starts acting up, one may feel two types of conditions. In an overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism), one can feel sweatier, and the heartbeat increases. This can also cause significant weight loss. Whereas underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism) does the opposite. One might feel cold, gain weight, and have a slower heartbeat.
While these may be commonly associated issues, many other symptoms of thyroid usually go unnoticed. Recognizing them at the right time helps in early detection and empowers individuals to seek medical help and work for their well-being.
The Foggy Mind and the Sluggish Body
One of the most common and overlooked symptoms of thyroid malfunction is having a foggy brain. This causes difficulty in concentration, forgetfulness and a general feeling of a tired mind.
People with hypothyroidism might struggle to recall words or complete tasks that were once effortless.
Moreover, hypothyroidism can cause general weakness and exhaustion. Even a simple task can become tiresome and overpowering.
This continuous exhaustion and tiredness is not the same as having occasional fatigue caused by lack of rest or sleep. It’s a constant state that significantly impacts quality of life.
The Unexplained Aches and Pains
Thyroid patients often complain about muscle stiffness and joint pains. These discomforts often start small but worsen over time.
Hormones in the thyroid affect how muscles work, which is the main cause of this pain. Muscles have trouble relaxing and healing when they don’t have enough of these hormones, which can cause pain and stiffness.
Similarly, there is a disease called Carpal Tunnel Syndrome that can make your hand and wrist feel numb and tingly. This can also be linked to hypothyroidism. The mismatch in hormones can cause fluid to build up, which can put pressure on the nerves in the carpal tunnel and cause these symptoms.
Shivering Even in Summers
If one feels cold all the time, even in scorching heat, it is a classic symptom of hypothyroidism. What happens is that the body’s metabolic rate slows down due to low thyroid hormone levels, leading to an inability to generate sufficient heat for normal functioning of the body.
People with hypothyroidism might find themselves layering indoors and craving hot beverages like tea and coffee, even in the summer.
Trouble in Sleeping
Hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism can both mess up the sleeping pattern of an individual, either making you too sleepy or unable to fall asleep.
People who have hypothyroidism may feel sleepy during the day and have trouble going to asleep or staying asleep at night.
Hyperthyroidism, on the other hand, can make it hard to fall asleep and stay asleep. These changes in sleep patterns make people even more tired and hurt their general health.
Hoarseness in Voice
Goitre, which is an enlargement of the thyroid gland, can cause a hoarse voice and make it hard for a person to swallow food. This happens because the swollen gland compresses the windpipe. Even though a goitre isn’t always a problem, it should be checked out by a doctor to find out what’s causing it and how to treat it.
It is important to find and treat thyroid problems as soon as possible to avoid issues and make life better. If one experiences any of the surprising signs mentioned above, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional!
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