The thyroid gland is situated in the front of your neck. It produces thyroid hormones, which are responsible for your body's metabolism. Hypothyroidism is a condition in which the thyroid gland does not make enough thyroid hormones. Hypothyroid patients have symptoms in which the body's functions are slowed down. The symptoms develop gradually and slowly over years, according to Mayo Clinic. According to the Endocrine website, around 10 million Americans have this condition. Women over 50 are more likely to develop hypothyroidism.
Early Symptoms
You will feel tired and sluggish initially. Later you will have other symptoms of a slowed-down metabolism. If you are hypothyroid, you will have increased sensitivity to cold temperatures. This is an early symptom of hypothyroidism, according to Armour Thyroid. In addition, your skin will feel more sensitive to the cold.
Weight Gain
You will gain weight in spite of eating less and are unable to lose weight in spite of dieting and exercising. This occurs due to a slower metabolism than usual.
Hair and Skin Changes
As your thyroid hormonal levels fall over months, your hair will become rough, thin and break easily, and eventually you will experience hair loss. You will have thinning of your eyebrows and loss of hair. Your skin will become rough and dry and your nails will break easily.
Menstrual Changes
Women with hypothyroidism will have heavier or longer periods. The menstrual irregularities may also result in difficulty in becoming pregnant.
Mental Changes
Even mild hypothyroidism can lead to depression, according to Armour Thyroid. You may have mood swings, feel irritable and will have difficulty in concentrating and remembering. Your thought processes will slow down
Other Symptoms
There will be voice changes with hypothyroidism. Your voice will become rough and hoarse and speech will become slow according to National Institutes of Health. Your face will be puffy and swollen. There will be swelling around the eyes and swelling of the hands and feet. Hypothyroidism slows your digestive system resulting in constipation. An under-active thyroid will stiffen your muscles and causes it to ache. Your joints will become painful, swollen and stiff according to Mayo Clinic. If you have the above symptoms, consult your doctor. If left untreated it may result in major depression, obesity, coma and heart failure, according to Endocrine web.
