Thyroid problems affect an estimated twenty million Americans and about 60% of those that do suffer from thyroid problems, goes un-diagnosed. The thyroid plays a major role in your body’s functions. The thyroid is a butterfly shaped gland located in the throat that helps our metabolism along with some minor and major bodily functions. Many people don’t even realize they have a thyroid problem. However, there are some common signs that can help alert people to thyroid problems. ENT Specialists would like to share some common signs of thyroid problems to help people become more aware of this ever growing medical condition and when to seek help.
Depression – An over or under active thyroid can affect human moods. Hypothyroidism is a thyroid condition that can make a person feel tired, sluggish and depressed. Hypothyroidism is also known to cause restlessness and anxiety.
Constipation – Hypothyroidism cause hormonal production disruption that slows down the digestive system resulting in frequent constipation. For those who suffer from regular constipation, this is a common sign of hypothyroidism.
Over Sleeping – When your thyroid isn’t functioning correctly it can make a person feel sluggish and one’s activities can slow way down. Additionally, a person could feel very tired and sleepy any time during the day.
Hair Loss and Dry Skin – When a person begins to lose a lot of their hair, this could be due to the thyroid. The thyroid, when suffering from certain conditions, can interrupt hair growth due to an over production of certain hormones. This also has an effect on the skin as well. When the metabolism slows down it can cause skin to dry and even feel itchy. This is due to your body not producing enough sweat.
Weight Gain – For those who have sudden weight gain without changing their diet or slowing down their regular activities, this is also a sign of a thyroid problem. It’s expected that one will gain weight if a person eats more or is less active. However, when a person doesn’t change their habits then it may be due to a thyroid condition.
Muscle Pain – When the muscles in the arms, legs, hands, or feet begin to feel tight or numb, it may be caused by the thyroid. If a hormone is depleted or low it can damage the nerves. The majority of the nerves throughout the body sends signals to the brain. When the nerves become damaged, this can result in muscle pain and numbness.
High Blood Pressure – For those who have high blood pressure, usually diet and excise can correct this problem. However, for those who do diet and continue to suffer from high blood pressure or even bad cholesterol levels, the culprit could be the thyroid. If the thyroid is causing high blood pressure it can result in severe medical conditions such as an enlarged heart or heart failure.
Altered Taste or Increased Appetite – When food tastes different or your appetite increases, this is often caused by hypothyroidism or in other words an overactive thyroid.
Swelling or Discomfort in the Neck – If you notice a lump in your throat or swelling along with discomfort, this is a common sign of a thyroid disorder. Sometimes this can also affect the sound of a person’s voice.
Hot and Cold – A thyroid disorder can often disrupt the body’s ability to regulate body temperature. Those with hypothyroidism often feel colder than others while those with hyperthyroidism will feel hotter than others and even sweat more.
If you have any or multiple signs of a thyroid condition, contact the ENT Specialists and make an appointment to have your thyroid examined and begin proper treatment today.
