The thyroid gland is a small, butterfly-shaped gland located at the base of the neck that produces hormones to regulate many essential bodily functions. Thyroid problems are common, especially in women, and can cause symptoms of thyroid problems that are often overlooked or attributed to other causes. Knowing the signs and symptoms of thyroid disorders can help determine when it’s time to see a doctor for thyroid testing.
Recognizing Symptoms of Thyroid Problems
There are a variety of symptoms associated with both underactive (hypothyroidism) and overactive (hyperthyroidism) thyroid issues. Being aware of the signs and symptoms is important, as many people with thyroid conditions may not realize they have a problem at first. Common symptoms of thyroid disorders include:
Fatigue: Feeling tired, sluggish, and weak despite getting adequate rest. One of the most common complaints with hypothyroidism.
Weight changes: both weight gain (hypothyroidism) and weight loss (hyperthyroidism) occur despite diet and exercise.
Temperature sensitivity: referring to warmer temperatures, having difficulty tolerating heat (hypothyroidism), or experiencing increased sweating and heat intolerance (hyperthyroidism).
Hair and skin changes: dry, coarse hair and skin (hypothyroidism) or fine, thinning hair and soft skin (hyperthyroidism).
Menstrual cycle changes: light, absent, or irregular periods (hypothyroidism), or heavy and frequent periods (hyperthyroidism).
Mood changes: feeling down, depressed, or restless (hypothyroidism) or anxious, irritable, or nervous (hyperthyroidism).
Cognitive problems: difficulty concentrating, focusing, or remembering things (hypothyroidism).
Constipation or diarrhea: bowel movement changes are common with thyroid dysfunction.
Swelling or enlargement of the thyroid can be a sign of thyroid nodules, inflammation, or goiter.
If you are experiencing any combination of these symptoms, it may be wise to see a doctor for evaluation. Routine thyroid testing can determine if thyroid hormone levels are out of balance.
Key Times to Get Your Thyroid Checked
In addition to seeking medical care for thyroid symptoms, there are certain times when thyroid testing is recommended for screening purposes:
Annual physical exam: Thyroid tests are often included in annual wellness visits, especially for women over the age of 50.
Pregnancy: Thyroid issues can affect fertility and cause problems for mom and baby. Testing is recommended before or early in pregnancy.
Family history: If you have a close relative with a thyroid disorder, you are at increased risk.
Autoimmune conditions: Thyroid problems are more common for those with type 1 diabetes, lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, and other autoimmune disorders.
Menopause: Hormone fluctuations around menopause can trigger thyroid issues. Testing is advised.
Unexplained weight changes: Ruling out a thyroid problem is wise if weight changes for no apparent reason.
High cholesterol: Hypothyroidism is associated with high cholesterol levels that don't respond to diet or medication.
Getting your thyroid tested during these key times can detect problems early before symptoms become too severe.
Thyroid Symptoms that Require Urgent Medical Care
While most thyroid conditions develop gradually over months or years, there are some thyroid symptoms that require prompt medical attention:
Difficulty swallowing or breathing can indicate a goiter is compressing the windpipe.
Chest pain: hyperthyroidism can cause rapid heart rates and irregular rhythms.
Heart palpitations, tremors, and nervousness are signs of hyperthyroidism that may need emergency treatment.
Fever, neck pain, swelling: if the thyroid gland is red, inflamed, and tender, it could indicate infection.
Hoarse voice, coughing up blood: this may develop if a thyroid nodule is putting pressure on the vocal cords.
Seeking same-day medical care is wise if you develop any of these more serious thyroid symptoms. The sudden onset of symptoms associated with thyroid swelling or inflammation warrants urgent evaluation.
Getting Properly Diagnosed by a Doctor
If you suspect a thyroid issue based on symptoms or risk factors, make an appointment to see your primary care doctor or endocrinologist. Diagnosing thyroid disorders requires blood tests to check levels of thyroid hormones, along with an exam and review of symptoms. Common thyroid tests include:
Thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH): elevated TSH indicates hypothyroidism, while suppressed levels usually mean hyperthyroidism.
T3 and T4 levels: measure the circulating levels of triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4).
Thyroid antibodies detect autoimmune-related thyroid problems like Hashimoto’s or Graves’ disease.
Based on the results of thyroid function tests, your doctor can diagnose hyperthyroidism, hypothyroidism, thyroid nodules, thyroiditis, thyroid cancer, or other thyroid problems. Treatment such as thyroid hormone medications, radioactive iodine, or thyroid surgery may be recommended based on the specific diagnosis.
Getting the right diagnosis is important, as many symptoms of thyroid dysfunction can overlap with those of other conditions. Doctors also need to rule out issues such as pituitary disorders, hormonal imbalances, or side effects of medications. Proper testing and diagnosis can prevent misdiagnosis and delays in getting the right treatment.
Partnering with Your Doctor for Thyroid Care
Managing thyroid disorders often requires an ongoing partnership with your doctor. After starting treatment, follow-up testing is needed to make sure medication dosing is appropriate and symptoms are stabilizing. Be sure to keep up with recommended medical monitoring, which may include:
Repeat thyroid blood tests.
Periodic thyroid ultrasounds if nodules are present
Regular physician exams to check for goiter and thyroid enlargement
Report any new or concerning symptoms promptly, rather than waiting for your next appointment. Also, check in about any side effects you experience from thyroid medications.
Good communication with your doctor can help optimize thyroid treatment, improve symptoms, prevent complications, and enhance your quality of life. Working as a team maximizes the benefits of seeking timely medical care.
When in Doubt, Get Your Thyroid Checked
Don’t downplay symptoms or assume only older women get thyroid disease. Thyroid problems can affect people of any age and gender. If your body is giving you clues that something may be wrong, trust those instincts and get checked out. The earlier thyroid issues are caught, the sooner effective treatment can begin.
Partnering with your doctor for thyroid symptoms test and follow-up care is essential. If treatment is needed, maintaining compliance with medication and monitoring are also vital. Listen to your body, and don’t hesitate to seek medical attention if thyroid concerns arise. Taking action to get the right diagnosis and management is crucial for protecting your health and wellbeing.
Thyroid problems can affect everyone, although some people are at a higher risk than others.
Thyroid disorders are more common in women than in males, and thyroid conditions can impact women in a variety of ways.
It's critical for women to be aware of the Symptoms of Thyroid Disorders and to consult a doctor if they have any.
(Symptoms in females) - Feeling very tired.
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