Thyroid dysfunction affects many people, an estimated 20 million Americans. But most of us are not even aware of this issue. Your thyroid, a small gland in your neck, is responsible for controlling vital body functions like energy levels and metabolism. Any kind of imbalance in the thyroid gland can cause health problems if not treated timely. But catching these problems early can make you manage your health in a better way.

It’s easy to miss these signs sometimes, which can leave us feeling uncertain or worried. But you’re not alone in this. We are here to help you tackle this commonly concerned question: What are the early warning signs of thyroid problems? 

9 early warning signs of thyroid problems

Before we talk about the signs of early thyroid problems, you should know about the two main conditions: hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism. Hypothyroidism occurs when the thyroid doesn’t produce enough hormones, while hyperthyroidism occurs when it produces too many hormones. Understanding these conditions helps you spot thyroid problems better.

Now, let’s discuss the early signs of thyroid issues. These signs can occur differently in each person. If you notice any unusual changes in your body, please talk to your doctor.

Fatigue

If you’re feeling persistent tiredness or fatigue, even after a full night’s sleep, it could be an early sign of overactive thyroid dysfunction (hyperthyroidism). You might find yourself feeling exhausted most of the time, struggling to have the energy for daily activities or tasks. 

Most people often ignore this symptom by assuming its common to feel tired. But if you’re tired for a long period of time without any obvious reason, it’s important to pay attention. Your body might be trying to tell you something, and ignoring it could mean missing a chance to address a potential thyroid issue.

Gastrointestinal problems

When your thyroid gland isn’t working properly, it can disturb the normal functioning of your digestive system. If you are having symptoms like constipation, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and heartburn, it can be due to thyroid imbalance. 

However, gastrointestinal issues can also occur due to other reasons like traveling, stress, and taking certain drugs. So, it’s important to talk to your doctor about your concerns.

Fact
Having trouble or pain while breathing and swallowing can be an indicator of Thyroid Cancer.

Weight changes

Our thyroid hormone is known for controlling metabolism and other bodily functions. So, if you notice weight fluctuations without any major changes to your diet or exercise routine, your thyroid could be a factor.

Low thyroid levels are often associated with weight gain, while an overactive thyroid can cause sudden weight loss.

Hair shedding

Yes, even your hair fall could be a sign of thyroid imbalance. Having too much or too little thyroid hormone, as well as certain medications that affect the thyroid, can cause hair loss. A study published in 2023 by The National Library of Medicine tells that about 50% with hyperthyroidism and 33% with hypothyroidism notice hair loss. 

If you are seeing unusual hair fall on the scalp or body, before trying your hands on any remedy or medicine, you should check with your doctor if thyroid is the reason. It will help you take the right steps for your health.

Also read: Find out the exact link between thyroid and hair loss with our guide, Can Thyroid Cause Hair Loss? Understanding the Link.

Difficulty in sleeping

If you are feeling frustrated and tired due to having trouble sleeping or a shorter sleeping span, it could be an early sign of thyroid dysfunction. 

Thyroid issues can disrupt your body’s natural sleep-wake cycle. Increased levels of thyroid hormone can cause various sleep problems, such as taking longer to fall asleep, difficulty staying asleep, and feeling excessively sleepy during the day.

Mood swings

A woman suffering from mood swings
A woman suffering from mood swings

Do you often experience sudden mood changes, like being unusually anxious, angry, or irritated? It’s common to feel overwhelmed by these emotions, and many people have similar experiences. There can be various reasons for these mood swings, but they might be connected to your thyroid health.

Thyroid hormones are essential in regulating neurotransmitters in the brain. Having any thyroid imbalances can affect mood and emotional stability. If you have hypothyroidism, you may experience emotional distress symptoms, such as depression, anger, or irritability. In the case of hyperthyroidism, you may feel anxiety and nervousness.

Eye problems

Thyroid issues, especially an overactive thyroid, can sometimes affect your eyes. One specific condition, known as Graves’ disease, is a common cause of an overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism). This autoimmune disorder leads your thyroid to produce too much hormone. Graves’ disease can also cause a condition called Graves’ Ophthalmology, which affects about one-third of people with Graves’ disease. It can lead to symptoms like blurred or double vision, bulging eyes, and swelling around the eyes

If these symptoms sound familiar, you should talk to your doctor.  They can tell if your thyroid is the underlying cause of such eye-related problems. Catching these signs early can help manage these effects better.

Warning
In extreme or rare cases, thyroid eye problems can also cause blindness or vision impairment.

Sensitivity to temperature

Feeling unusually sensitive to temperature changes can be quite uncomfortable. If you find yourself struggling with cold temperatures more than usual or facing excessive sweating and heat intolerance, these could be signs of an underlying issue.

Thyroid hormones help regulate body temperature, so thyroid dysfunction can affect how your body responds to heat and cold. Hypothyroidism may cause you to feel cold and have difficulty tolerating cold temperatures. Conversely, hyperthyroidism can cause heat intolerance and excessive sweating.

If you notice such temperature-related changes, it’s important to get them checked by doctors. This can be an early sign of thyroid dysfunction.

Reproductive changes

Thyroid issues can cause reproductive problems in both males and females.

Menstrual irregularities (in females)

Many women face menstrual irregularities at some point in their lives. If your periods have become irregular or heavier than usual, or you find yourself skipping periods altogether, it can be both confusing and frustrating. These changes can make it harder to predict your cycle and might affect your ability to get pregnant.

While irregular periods and infertility are often common signs of conditions like PCOS, these changes can also be a warning sign of thyroid issues. 

If you observe such changes in your body, it is always better to get checked early for appropriate treatment.

Erectile Dysfunction (in males)

Having problems like trouble getting or keeping an erection, known as Erectile Dysfunction(ED), can be disturbing for many men. It can affect your confidence and your relationship with your partner. 

Thyroid imbalances are among the factors that can contribute to ED. When your thyroid isn’t functioning properly, it can affect various bodily functions, including men’s sexual health. If you are facing the same difficulties, you should consult your doctors. They can prescribe you medications that can help manage ED. 

Listen to your body signals

The above-mentioned signs are not the only signs of having a thyroid problem. There could be other signs, too. It is also possible that some symptoms might be from different health issues. It’s important to get checked by your doctor for the right diagnosis. They will perform tests to check your thyroid function and recommend appropriate treatment if necessary.

Take care of yourself, and don’t ignore what your body is trying to tell you. By listening to your body, you’re taking the right step towards better health.

Conclusion

Knowing the early warning signs of thyroid problems can help you better manage your health. Some of the early symptoms include fatigue, weight changes, gastrointestinal issues, sleep disturbances, mood swings, and hair shedding. Females can also have menstrual irregularities, while men can have ED due to thyroid dysfunction. However, these symptoms may also indicate other health issues. 

Don’t ignore your body’s signals. If you experience any such symptoms, please talk to your doctor. They will perform required tests and recommend appropriate treatment. Your health is your most valuable asset. Take care and be patient with yourself.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the signs of early thyroid problems?

Early signs of thyroid problems include fatigue, unexplained weight changes, and sleep disturbances. Other symptoms may include mood swings, hair shedding, and gastrointestinal issues. If you experience these symptoms,  it is important to consult your doctor.

Is it common to experience mood swings with thyroid issues?

Yes, mood swings can occur with thyroid issues. Imbalances in thyroid hormones can affect neurotransmitters in the brain, leading to emotional instability. If you notice mood changes and other symptoms, consult your doctor to manage thyroid dysfunction.

What are early warning symptoms of thyroid issues in females?

Early warning symptoms of thyroid issues in females may include menstrual irregularities, such as changes in flow or frequency. Other signs may include fatigue, weight changes, mood swings, sleeping problems, and changes in hair texture or volume.

What are the early warning symptoms of thyroid problems in males?

Early warning symptoms of thyroid problems in males often include Erectile Dysfunction (ED). Other symptoms may include unexplained weight changes, fatigue, mood swings, gastrointestinal issues (constipation, vomiting), and hair shedding.

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