The butterfly-shaped gland in your neck, the thyroid, is influential in your body's functioning. It manufactures thyroid hormone (TH) that helps regulate your metabolism, pulse, and more. But, if too much or too little TH is released, it may result in a wide array of health issues. Here are some of the most prevalent signs of thyroid illness.

1、Thyroid hormone regulation affects metabolism and thus, changes in weight are common symptoms of thyroid complications. Generally, hypothyroidism contributes to weight gain, while hyperthyroidism usually causes weight loss, the intensity of which is proportional to the severity of the condition. In hypothyroidism, however, significant weight gain is rare.

2、Thyroid disease may cause various skin and nail problems. These may include dryness, paleness, itchiness, deep lines on the hands and feet, swelling of the face, a wider nose, decreased or increased perspiration, bulging eyes, and brittle nails with ridges. Additionally, those with skin conditions such as vitiligo, hives, and alopecia areata have a heightened probability of developing the disease.

3、Considering having a family? Keep in mind that thyroid disease can have an effect on the menstrual cycle, ovulation, and prolactin production. An abundance of prolactin can impede with ovulation, making it harder to get pregnant. If left untreated, it can also cause miscarriage, premature birth, low birth weight, or preeclampsia. Pregnancy hormones increase the amount of TH, which is required for the fetus's brain development.

4、Fatigue and a lack of energy can be traced back to a variety of conditions, but are particularly connected to hypothyroidism. If you're still exhausted in the morning or all day after a good night's sleep, that could be an indication that your thyroid is not functioning properly. When too little TH is travelling through your cells and bloodstream, the message that your muscles need to become active is not received.

5、Hypothyroidism is often associated with a decreased ability to tolerate cold temperatures, as an underactive thyroid can slow metabolic processes and reduce the energy available to generate heat. Alternatively, those with hyperthyroidism may find it difficult to withstand heat as an overactive thyroid can cause cells that produce energy to function in excess.

6、People with hypothyroidism may experience constipation, which can be caused by an interruption in the production of TH. Conversely, an excessive amount of TH can result in diarrhea or increased frequency of bowel movements. This is because the hormone accelerates the digestive process.

7、Heart palpitations can be experienced in the chest or at pulse points in the neck or throat, and can make your heart feel like it is fluttering, skipping a beat or beating too fast. TH plays an important role in heart health, with 10-25% of those with hyperthyroidism having a rapid heartbeat and hypothyroidism causing symptoms such as a slow heart rate, hypertension, high cholesterol, blood vessel constriction and swelling due to fluid retention. If not addressed, it can eventually lead to heart failure.

8、With thyroid disease, your hair may become coarse, dry, or brittle, and you may see more shedding or thinning. Additionally, your scalp may become itchy and dry. Take notice of if your hair is growing gradually or quickly, and if you have any bald patches.

If you have any of these symptoms and think you have a thyroid issue, it is important to go to a healthcare provider. It is likely that they will take some blood tests, including a TSH test or Free T3 and Free T4 tests. Depending on the results, symptoms and the physical examination, the healthcare provider may suggest synthetic hormones. Sometimes it may be necessary to visit an endocrinologist multiple times to find the most suitable treatment for your condition.