Is it My Thyroid Gland?

The tiny thyroid gland plays a major role in regulating everything from our energy levels to our memory. If you’re a woman over the age of 30 and you’ve been experiencing unusual symptoms that you just can’t explain, the chances are good that your thyroid gland may be playing some part in the problem.

The small, butterfly-shaped thyroid gland may measure a miniscule two inches in diameter, but even minor fluctuations in its function can cause a staggeringly wide array of health problems.

What is the function of the Thyroid Gland?

The primary function of the thyroid gland is the production and distribution of the thyroid hormones T3 (triiodothyronine) and T4 (thyroxine). Even slight variances in the amount of these thyroid hormones can produce problems in virtually all of the major organ groups and body systems.

What are the Thyroid Disorders?

The two major types of thyroid disorders are hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism. Hypothyroidism is characterized by a lack of adequate thyroid hormones in the body, and it causes a system-wide slowdown that can leave you sluggish, exhausted, depressed, and overweight.

Hyperthyroidism, on the other hand, comes about when the thyroid is thrown into overdrive and produces an excess of the thyroid hormones. This surplus speeds up many aspects of the body’s normal functions, resulting in anxiety, insomnia, restlessness, and rapid weight loss.

Who is at Risk?

Women are at the greatest risk of developing hypothyroidism. Although the disorder is relatively rare among women in their twenties, it is not entirely unheard, so don’t rule hypothyroidism out if you are a young woman who has been experiencing prolonged fatigue and exhaustion for no apparent reason.

However, while hypothyroidism remains a relatively rare occurrence among younger women, it is very common among their older counterparts. It is believed that over ten percent of all women over the age of 60 have some level of underactivity in their thyroid function and thyroid hormone production. Many of these cases go undiagnosed, perhaps in part due to the fact that many of the symptoms of hypothyroidism mirror common signs of aging and menopause.

Low Thyroid Function (Hypothyroidism) and its Symptoms

If you just aren’t feeling like your energetic old self these days, you might have hypothyroidism, the disorder that results from an underactive thyroid gland and a lack of adequate levels of thyroid hormone. Every patient with hypothyroidism experiences symptoms differently, but in general, the disorder tends to manifest itself in lethargy, fatigue, weight gain, and feelings of sadness and hopelessness.

Common Symptoms of Hypothyroidism

In addition to lethargy, depression, and weight gain, other common symptoms that may indicate low thyroid function include dry skin and hair, intolerance for cold temperatures, and menstrual abnormalities. Mood swings, memory loss, swallowing difficulties, swelling in the neck area, and voice hoarseness may also indicate a problem stemming from low thyroid function.

High Thyroid (Hyperthyroidism) and its Symptoms

Though it is far less common than hypothyroidism, an overactive thyroid gland – also known as hyperthyroidism – may also cause a number of strange and troubling symptoms. The good news is that hyperthyroidism is generally much easier to diagnose than is hypothyroidism, due to the fact that the striking symptoms associated with the disorder are very unique and are often grouped together in ways that are obvious to experienced physicians.

With a surplus of thyroid hormone in the body, hyperthyroidism speeds up many of the body’s normal functions. Heart palpitations and rapid heartbeats are a common sign of the disorder. Patients might experience a sudden intolerance for heat, even when others don’t feel hot at all.

Common Symptoms of Hyperthyroidism

Disruptions in appetite and normal eating habits are common in hyperthyroidism, as is rapid weight loss without any significant reduction in calorie intake. Irritability and emotional volatility are also common signs, and patients with the disorder are often known to “fly off the handle” with little or no provocation.

Vision problems are another common symptom of hyperthyroidism. Patients with the disorder often develop a characteristic look of bulging eyes and an unblinking, fixed gaze that is sometimes referred to by doctors as the “thyroid stare.” Menstrual irregularities and infertility are also common, and patients with hyperthyroidism also often complain of muscle weakness, spasms, and cramps.

Talk to a Doctor

If you have experienced any of these symptoms, you should talk to a doctor who has experience in diagnosing and treating thyroid disorders and request a full evaluation. The good news is that a return to full health is often possible as long as you stick closely to your prescribed regimen of medication. Be sure to check back here each week for more thyroid news and information!