The thyroid gland has an essential impact on a body's metabolism. It is at the front side of the neck and shaped like a butterfly. The gland produces vital hormones, and an imbalance in these hormones can lead to thyroid diseases.
You should know the warning signs of thyroid disease for early diagnosis and better health. Some of these common symptoms include:
Exhaustion
People with thyroid disease often feel dull, tired, and exhausted. The fatigue is severe, and one cannot relate it to a lack of sleep. If you are feeling lethargic, try to get enough rest, sleep, and a good meal. However, the condition is concerning if you still don't feel energetic.
At times, women often confuse the cause of fatigue with menopause. However, thyroid disease can be the reason if they are taking estrogen and still feeling weak.
Weight Loss or Gain
A sudden shift in your body's weight without changing diet and lifestyle should always be a cause of concern. In thyroid disease, your body produces too much or too little hormone. The first condition is termed overactive, while the latter is an underactive thyroid.
When the hormone is excessive (hyperthyroidism), your body's metabolism speeds up. You burn more calories, which leads to a loss of weight.
In case of low hormone levels (hypothyroidism), the body's metabolism becomes slow. When you burn fewer calories, your body gains weight.
Chills or Excessive Sweating
If you are the only one feeling colder, it might be due to an underlying health condition. Thyroid disease can also be the reason. The disease can slow down your body's metabolism, decreasing the body's temperature. Consequently, you feel cold.
Likewise, the disease can also speed up the body's metabolism and increase the body's temperature. That is how you feel hot and sweaty.
Elevated Heart Rate
Whenever you feel palpitations in your heart along with discomfort, make sure to check the heart rate. Even at rest, a high heart rate can make your body panic. Adults' normal heart rate range is 60-100 beats per minute. Maintain a record of your weekly heart rate and consult with a healthcare provider if it is consistently high.
Problems in your thyroid gland can increase your heart rate. Therefore, keep this cause in consideration.
Other Indicators
Apart from the above signs, thyroid disease can cause several other symptoms. A bulge in the neck, known as a thyroid nodule, is common. Likewise, patients also experience changes in the skin, eyes, sleep schedules, and menstrual cycles.
However, the warning signs depend upon the
severity of the condition and the type of disorder. Most of the symptoms can
also be present due to other health issues.
It is, therefore, imperative to diagnose the problem before starting any medications.
For early diagnosis and ideal treatment of thyroid diseases, consult at the Springfield Medical Clinic. Our team of medical professionals specializes in treating numerous thyroid disorders.