- Any dysfunction of the thyroid gland can cause serious problems to your body. Most common types of thyroid disorders include:
- Hyperthyroidism - when your thyroid gland makes more thyroid hormones than your body requires.
- Hypothyroidism - when your thyroid gland does not make enough thyroid hormones.
- Goiter - enlargement of the thyroid gland.
- Thyroid cancer – a cancer in the butterfly-shaped gland in the neck.
- Thyroid nodules - lumps in the thyroid gland
- Thyroiditis – swelling or inflammation of the thyroid.
- Anyone can get a thyroid disease, but if you're a woman over 35 years your chances of getting a thyroid disorder are high. Also, women are more likely than men to have thyroid problems, especially right after pregnancy and after menopause.
- Following are some common signs and symptoms that tell your thyroid has gone haywire:
- Symptoms of hypothyroidism include:
- Fatigue or feeling exhausted
- Constipation
- Poor tolerance to cold temperatures
- Depression
- Loss of appetite
- Weight gain
- Irregular menstrual periods
- Low sex drive
- Eye problems
Symptoms of hypothyroidism include:
- Fatigue or feeling exhausted
- Constipation
- Poor tolerance to cold temperatures
- Depression
- Loss of appetite
- Weight gain
- Irregular menstrual periods
- Low sex drive
- Eye problems
Symptoms of hyperthyroidism include:
- Insomnia
- Nervousness
- Frequent bowel movements
- Rapid weight loss
- Excessive sweating
- Joint pains
- Feeling excessively hot in normal or cold temperatures
- Eye problems
If you have any of these symptoms, make sure that you consult a healthcare practitioner for a complete thyroid evaluation.
