Warning Signs Your Thyroid May Be Off

You may already know that a sluggish thyroid can make you feel tired, run down and even increase your likelihood of packing on a few pounds. But few people realize that every case of hypothyroidism (a.k.a. underactive thyroid) is unique.

In fact, an estimated 12 million Americans live with a thyroid condition that has not been identified. Some patients believe the weather is making them feel down. Others think changing bowel habits are a product of their age or a poor diet. The most important thing, of course, is understanding what hypothyroidism actually looks like so that you can recognize both the typical symptoms and those that might surprise you.

Here, Dr. Levy highlights the 10 symptoms of hypothyroidism that often get overlooked:

Constipation. Many people know an underactive thyroid slows things down, but they may not realize it affects the digestive system, too.
Foggy thinking. Just as a sluggish thyroid can slow down your body (and your metabolism), it can also slow down your brain, too. The end result: an inability to focus. A person whose thyroid is extremely slow may even be slow to speak and speak slowly.
Anxiety and depression. When your brain isn’t operating at full capacity, depression and anxiety naturally follow.
Recurrent miscarriages. If a woman with an underactive thyroid gets pregnant and hasn’t been treated for hypothyroidism, complications may arise. On the plus side, if hypothyroidism is detected and treated, patients often go on to have successful pregnancies.
Menstrual irregularities. A thyroid problem (whether underactive or hyperactive) often wreaks havoc on menstruation. A woman’s cycle might be longer or shorter, and they may have difficulty ovulating.
Carpal tunnel syndrome. An underactive thyroid can cause your body to retain water, even in your hands, wrists and fingers.
Puffy face. Just as you can hold excess water in your hands and fingers, it can also show up on your face!
Hoarseness. Hypothyroidism can cause vocal changes, such as hoarseness, vocal fatigue, and a decreased range.
Sensitivity to cold. If you feel cold when everyone else is comfortable, it could be a sign of hypothyroidism. After all, it takes energy to warm the body.
Hair loss. Hair loss is common with hypothyroidism. With all systems slowing down, the body prioritizes critical survival functions. Hair growth isn’t one of them.

Think you may have a thyroid disorder? Ask your doctor to check your thyroid levels, especially if you have a family history of Hashimoto’s thyroiditis (an autoimmune disease where the immune disease attacks and destroys the thyroid gland). A simple blood test could bring you one step closer to relief.