Hypothyroidism is a condition that occurs when your thyroid gland does not produce enough hormones. This causes your body's systems and metabolism to slow down. It can be treated successfully by medications that boost your hormone levels. The sooner you receive treatment the better. Hypothyroidism can be life-threatening if not treated properly. If you recognize the initial symptoms of hypothyroidism, talk to your doctor about ways to manage your condition and avoid complications.
Fatigue
According to the Mayo Clinic, the initial symptoms of hypothyroidism tend to come on slowly, and you may dismiss them. They state that "At first, you may barely notice the symptoms of hypothyroidism, such as fatigue and sluggishness, or you may simply attribute them to getting older." In addition, feeling tired or having a lack of energy can be attributed to many causes and you may not seek treatment until other symptoms of hypothyroidism appear. However, if you are chronically fatigued or unusually tired see your physician to rule out medical causes.
Other Early Signs
According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, other early signs of hypothyroidism include difficulty concentrating, sensitivity to cold temperatures, headaches and dry skin. You may suffer from depression and have trouble remembering things. The American Thyroid Association states that especially in the early stages, "Because the symptoms are so variable, the only way to know for sure whether you have hypothyroidism is with blood tests."
Additional Initial Symptoms
In the beginning stages of hypothyroidism you may have unexplained weight gain as your metabolism slows. However, you may also have a loss of appetite. You may be constipated and have heavier or lighter than normal menstrual periods. Brittle fingernails and hair are additional signs. You may also experience milky discharge from the breasts along with muscle and joint aches.
