Hypothyroidism, a common endocrine disorder, is a condition where the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormone. It can be difficult to diagnose because the symptoms are often subtle and develop gradually over time. In this article, we will discuss the most common signs and symptoms of hypothyroidism that you should be aware of.
● Tiredness and Fatigue
One of the most common symptoms of hypothyroidism is tiredness or fatigue. Patients with hypothyroidism often feel weak and exhausted, even after getting enough sleep. This is because the thyroid hormone helps to regulate the body's metabolism, which is responsible for producing energy. Without enough thyroid hormone, the body's metabolic rate decreases, leading to fatigue and lethargy.
● Feeling Cold
Another common symptom of hypothyroidism is feeling cold. Patients may feel cold even when the temperature is normal. This is because thyroid hormone plays an important role in regulating the body's temperature. Without enough thyroid hormone, the body's temperature regulation system becomes less efficient, leading to feelings of coldness.
● Weight Gain
Weight gain is a common symptom of hypothyroidism. Patients with hypothyroidism may gain weight even when they are eating the same amount of food as before. This is because the thyroid hormone regulates the body's metabolic rate, which affects how the body uses and stores energy. When the metabolic rate decreases, the body stores more energy as fat, leading to weight gain.
● Hair Loss
Hair loss is a common symptom of hypothyroidism. Patients with hypothyroidism may notice that their hair is thinning or falling out more than usual. This is because thyroid hormone plays an important role in regulating hair growth. Without enough thyroid hormone, hair growth slows down, leading to hair loss.
● Dry Skin
Dry skin is a common symptom of hypothyroidism. Patients may notice that their skin is dry, itchy, or flaky. This is because thyroid hormone helps to regulate the body's hydration levels. Without enough thyroid hormone, the body's skin becomes less hydrated, leading to dryness and irritation.
● Depression
Depression is a common symptom of hypothyroidism. Patients may feel sad, hopeless, or irritable, even when there is no obvious reason to feel this way. This is because thyroid hormone plays an important role in regulating mood. Without enough thyroid hormone, the body's mood regulation system becomes less efficient, leading to feelings of depression.
● Constipation
Constipation is a common symptom of hypothyroidism. Patients may experience difficulty passing stools or may pass stools less frequently than usual. This is because thyroid hormone helps to regulate the body's digestion and metabolism. Without enough thyroid hormone, the body's digestion and metabolism become less efficient, leading to constipation.
● Muscle Weakness and Aches
Muscle weakness and aches are common symptoms of hypothyroidism. Patients may experience weakness in the muscles, particularly in the arms and legs. They may also experience muscle aches, tenderness, and stiffness. This is because thyroid hormone plays an important role in regulating the body's muscle function. Without enough thyroid hormone, the body's muscle function becomes less efficient, leading to weakness and aches.
● Elevated Blood Cholesterol Level
An elevated blood cholesterol level is a common symptom of hypothyroidism. Patients with hypothyroidism may have high levels of LDL cholesterol, which is often referred to as "bad" cholesterol. This is because thyroid hormone plays an important role in regulating the body's cholesterol levels. Without enough thyroid hormone, the body's cholesterol levels become imbalanced, leading to elevated levels of LDL cholesterol.
● Irregular Menstrual Periods
Comments