| | Home > How to Determine If You Have a Thyroid Problem |
How to Determine If You Have a Thyroid Problem
Many people have thyroid issues that they are not aware of. This is because the symptoms of a thyroid problem are typically overlooked, or attributed to something else. However, even if there is the slightest suspicion that a thyroid problem may exist, based on symptoms that you are experiencing, your doctor can perform a simple blood test to get an answer for you.
One of the biggest and most noticeable symptoms of a thyroid problem is changes in weight. This could be a significant weight gain or loss, or an inability to lose weight, even when dieting. This inability to lose weight may signify hypothyroidism. If you have an inability to gain weight, or you are suddenly losing weight for no reason, this could indicate hyperthyroidism.
Changes in the hair and skin are also noticeable signs of a thyroid problem. Hair loss is very common when there is a thyroid condition, and hair may become very dry and start breaking. Skin may become dry and have a scaly appearance as well. There is an interesting type of hair loss associated with a thyroid problem. If the problem is hypothyroidism, there will be a significant loss of hair along the outer edges of the eyebrows.
You may notice that your neck has become larger or that you have more neck discomfort. Your neck may actually feel slightly swollen, and you may experience a hoarse voice as well. You may experience problems with your bowels as well, and different bowel conditions signify different types of thyroid problems. If you have diarrhea, this is a sign of hyperthyroidism. If you have constipation, this is a sign of hypothyroidism.
Depression, anxiety, and fatigue are all common symptoms of a thyroid problem. At the same time, you may also experience muscle and joint pain. Unfortunately, depression is usually diagnosed in this instance, because muscle and joint pain is a classic sign of depression as well. Too often, doctors do not seek the cause of the depression, and simply prescribe antidepressants, when what you need is medication to regulate your thyroid gland.
Other signs of a thyroid condition include fertility problems, changes in the menstrual cycle, and high cholesterol. However, it is also important to realize that thyroid problems can be inherited, which means that if you have a family history of a thyroid condition, without having any symptoms, you should still have blood work done every couple of years to make sure that your thyroid gland is functioning as it should.
|
|
|
