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Common Symptoms of Hypothyroidism
The hormones produced by the thyroid gland affect all body organs and play a vital role in regulating metabolism, energy use, and other functions. Therefore, hypothyroidism, or an underactive thyroid gland, can lead to many symptoms and signs. In this article, we will highlight the most common symptoms of hypothyroidism. (4)
Common Symptoms of Hypothyroidism
Common Symptoms of Hypothyroidism in Adults
Here are the common signs and symptoms of hypothyroidism in adults:
Fatigue and Exhaustion
Feeling tired and exhausted is one of the most common symptoms of hypothyroidism. Patients experience severe fatigue, tiredness, and drowsiness regardless of how much sleep they get. Several studies have shown that 50% of individuals with hypothyroidism feel constant fatigue, and 42% sleep more than usual. (3)(4)
Feeling Cold
Due to decreased metabolic activity, individuals with hypothyroidism often feel cold all the time, even during hot summer months. This is because their basal body temperature drops. (4)
Weight Gain
Hypothyroidism can cause unexpected weight gain. Thyroid hormones play a crucial role in the metabolism of fats and sugars. When the thyroid gland is underactive and produces fewer hormones, the metabolic rate slows down, making it difficult to burn calories. This can result in weight gain, particularly around the face, stomach, and other body areas. (4)(5)
Mood Swings and Memory Changes
Hypothyroidism can affect mood, leading to common symptoms such as depression, anxiety, and apathy. It can also impact memory function, causing decreased attention, concentration, and memory impairment. (4)
Muscle and Joint Pain
Hypothyroidism can cause joint stiffness, weakness, and swelling. Patients may experience muscle aches and pains. A research study on hypothyroid patients showed that 79% suffered from thyroid myopathy, a condition characterized by muscle weakness and persistent fatigue. (4)(6)
Constipation
Hypothyroidism slows down many bodily functions, including digestion, which can lead to bowel movement problems and constipation. (4)
Hair Loss
A deficiency in thyroid hormones affects rapidly growing cells, including hair follicles, leading to hair loss from the scalp, eyebrows, legs, and other body areas. Hair may become coarse as well. (3)(4)
Dry Skin
Dry skin with paleness is another common symptom. Thyroid dysfunction can also affect the nails, making them thin and prone to breakage. (4)
Other symptoms
Other symptoms of hypothyroidism in adults may include:(7)
- Goiter.
- Slowed heart rate (called bradycardia).
- Irregular or heavy menstrual periods.
- Hoarse voice.
- Elevated cholesterol levels.
Common symptoms of Hypothyroidism in Older Children and Adolescents
In addition to the symptoms experienced by adults, older children and adolescents with hypothyroidism may experience delayed physical and mental growth, delayed eruption of permanent teeth, and delayed puberty. (7)
Common symptoms of Hypothyroidism in Infants
Symptoms that appear in infants with hypothyroidism include: (7)(8)
- Persistent jaundice is characterized by yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes.
- Enlarged and swollen tongue.
- Cold hands and feet.
- Poor feeding habits.
- Umbilical hernia.
- Stomach bloating.
- Growth problems (slow or absent growth).
- Hoarse cry.
- Constipation.
- Extreme sleepiness.
Do hypothyroidism symptoms appear quickly?
How is hypothyroidism diagnosed?
If you experience hypothyroidism symptoms, it is essential to undergo a series of tests to measure thyroid hormone levels. These tests contribute to the diagnosis and help determine an appropriate treatment plan.
Therefore, don’t hesitate to visit any Al-Borg Diagnostics branches to perform thyroid hormone tests through the Thyroid Care test. It is a specialized program for monitoring thyroid hormone levels, examining thyroxine (T4), triiodothyronine (T3), thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), and thyroid antibodies with a high level of accuracy and efficiency.
References:
- https://www.endocrineweb.com/conditions/hypothyroidism
- https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/underactive-thyroid-hypothyroidism/symptoms/
- https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/hypothyroidism-symptoms#tiredness
- https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/324535#fatigue
- https://www.mindbodygreen.com/articles/signs-of-hypothyroidism
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK519513/
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/hypothyroidism/symptoms-causes/syc-20350284
- https://www.webmd.com/women/hypothyroidism-underactive-thyroid-symptoms-causes-treatments
