Hypothyroidism is a condition of decreased activity by the thyroid gland. The thyroid gland is located in the neck. It secretes hormones that are important for the body's metabolism and functions. In hypothyroidism, the gland secretes lesser amounts of hormones than necessary, either because the cells in the gland are damaged, or if it receives inadequate signals from the brain to secrete the hormones. There are many symptoms that can be similar to hypothyroidism.
Psychiatric Symptoms
Fatigue and weakness are common symptoms that are similar to hypothyroidism. These can be mistaken for depression, or viral illnesses, like mononucleosis. Memory loss and irritability are other symptoms that could be related to hypothyroidism or to other psychiatric conditions, like Alzheimer's disease or dementia.
Metabolic Symptoms
Weight gain or difficulties in losing weight are symptoms that can be associated with hypothyroidism. The skin and hair usually becomes coarse and dry. Hair loss is another common finding that can also be related to other conditions, including the beginning of baldness in men. The inability to tolerate cold weather is another symptom that is similar to the symptoms of hypothyroidism.
Men can have loss of libido, which can also be associated with psychiatric issues. Women can have abnormal menstrual cycles, which can be signs of cancer, infection or diseases like lupus. Patients with hypothyroidism can also have pain and swelling of joints, which is also a symptom of arthritis or joint infection.
Other General Symptoms
Patients with muscle cramps can have hypothyroidism, or can be suffering from electrolyte disturbances--for example, low potassium or calcium. Constipation is common in some healthy adults, or it could also be symptomatic of decreased thyroid function. Some patients will have an enlarged thyroid, called a goiter, in response to the brain trying to pump out more hormones from the gland, but it is important to rule out other masses, like lymphomas, which can also present this way. Patients with hypothyroidism can also have an elevated cholesterol level, which is also seen in other conditions, like diabetes.
