Most Common Symptoms of Hypothyroidism

ByAgkidzone Staff

Updated: Oct 25, 2024

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Hypothyroidism happens when the thyroid gland doesn't make enough of the hormones triiodothyronine and thyroxine. Since the thyroid helps control many essential body functions, its underperformance can cause a range of symptoms. One of the first noticeable signs might be a swelling in the neck, called a goiter, which could indicate something’s off with your thyroid gland. In many cases, people don't realize they have thyroid issues until they start feeling these physical changes.

Exhaustion

Fatigue is one of the most prevalent symptoms of hypothyroidism. Unlike regular tiredness, this exhaustion doesn't just affect the body but also saps your mental energy. People with hypothyroidism often feel unmotivated, and no matter how much sleep they get, they just can’t seem to shake the fatigue. The thyroid hormones are responsible for regulating energy levels, and when they are low, it’s no wonder your energy feels drained.

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Weight Gain

Unexplained weight gain can be a major sign of hypothyroidism. The body's metabolism slows down when it doesn't get enough thyroid hormones, which means you burn fewer calories even when resting. This can lead to a quick increase in weight. On top of that, the exhaustion caused by hypothyroidism can make regular exercise feel like a real challenge, compounding the issue. As a result, many people find themselves gaining weight unexpectedly.

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Muscle Weakness

Muscle weakness is another common but frustrating symptom. Tasks or movements that once felt easy may now seem challenging. This happens because hypothyroidism can cause the body to switch to catabolism, where it starts breaking down muscles to get energy. That muscle breakdown can make even simple activities feel like a workout. If you're noticing that you're struggling with daily tasks, it might be time to check your thyroid.

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Depression

Although it’s not entirely understood why depression is linked to hypothyroidism, many people report feeling a profound sense of sadness when their thyroid hormone levels are low. This symptom can be particularly frustrating because it feels more emotional than physical. Fortunately, medication can often help by boosting the production of the missing hormones. For some, psychological support alongside medical treatment can also be beneficial in managing this mood shift.

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Dry or Itchy Skin

Dry or itchy skin is another classic symptom of hypothyroidism. When the thyroid isn't releasing enough hormones, skin cells don't turn over as quickly as they should. This means old skin cells hang around longer than they’re supposed to, which leads to that dry, flaky feeling. People might also experience more pronounced itching, especially if the skin’s moisture barrier is disrupted.

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Hair Loss

The thyroid plays a big role in regulating hair growth. When it’s not functioning properly, hair follicles may not be able to regenerate as quickly, leading to noticeable hair loss. Patches of dry or coarse hair are also common in people with hypothyroidism. If you’re experiencing unexpected hair thinning or loss, it might be time to have your thyroid checked, especially if other treatments aren't helping.

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Memory or Concentration Problems

We all have moments of forgetfulness, but when those moments start piling up and affect your daily life, it could be a sign of hypothyroidism. This "brain fog" can make it difficult to focus, leading to confusion or concentration issues at work or home. Though the exact reason for these cognitive issues isn't fully understood, it's a well-documented symptom among individuals with an underactive thyroid.

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Irregular Menstrual Cycles

For women, thyroid hormones are key players in regulating the menstrual cycle. When the thyroid isn't producing enough hormones, it throws the entire hormonal balance off, potentially leading to irregular periods. If your cycle has been unpredictable or unusual, it could be related to your thyroid, and it’s a good idea to check in with your gynecologist for further investigation.

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Constipation

Hypothyroidism can slow down many of the body's processes, including digestion. As a result, constipation is a common side effect. The colon's ability to pass stool is reduced, leading to more frequent issues with bowel movements. If typical remedies for constipation aren’t working, it might be worth discussing thyroid testing with your doctor.

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Feeling Cold

Do you feel cold all the time, even when others are comfortable? This could be another sign of an underactive thyroid. When the thyroid isn't working well, it slows down your metabolism, which leads to burning fewer calories. Since burning calories generates heat, the result is that you may often feel chilly, no matter how many layers you pile on.

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