16 Signs That You Suffer From Hypothyroidism
Although some of the symptoms of hypothyroidism coincide with those of other pathologies, if we present several together, it is essential to go to a specialist to receive a proper diagnosis
The thyroid gland is located in the neck, in front of the windpipe. It is a small butterfly-shaped organ that plays a fundamental role in the functioning of the body. If you want to know if you suffer from hypothyroidism, continue reading …
The thyroid gland stores and releases essential thyroid hormones for the tissues and organs of our body.
This gland can present two dysfunctions:
- Hyperthyroidism, when it produces an excess of hormones.
- Hypothyroidism, when there is a deficit.
Today we are going to tell you what are the signs that you suffer from hypothyroidism.
What is hypothyroidism?
Hypothyroidism, also called an underactive thyroid, occurs when the thyroid gland decreases its functional activity.
This gland stops producing the necessary thyroid hormones, which slows down the metabolism.
If time is allowed to pass and this health problem is not addressed, it can generate a delicate health picture.
The problem is that people with hypothyroidism do not identify the disease, since the symptoms may be related to other pathologies.
16 signs you have hypothyroidism
Given that its signs are so common and may be due to other diseases, it is important to know the set of symptoms of this metabolic disorder.
If there are several symptoms mentioned below, you should see a doctor, request a diagnosis and its subsequent treatment:
1. Constipation
If you suffer from constipation despite consuming a fiber-based diet and drinking a lot of water, it may be due to some lack of control related to this gland.
2. Variations in skin color
If you suffer from hypothyroidism, you probably have dry, pale and yellowish skin. In addition, hair loss and weak nails may occur.
3. Physical exhaustion
If you notice that you are constantly tired and exhausted without having done significant physical activities, you should go to the doctor for the relevant tests.
4. Fluid retention
If you feel bloated in the morning, and especially if you notice a puffy face, bags under your eyes, and an appearance of exhaustion, you may be retaining fluids.
Likewise, swelling of the hands and feet may also occur.
5. Cold intolerance
If you suffer from hypothyroidism, you may be used to feeling cold constantly, even in hot weather and high temperatures.
6. Weight gain or weight loss
You may be gaining weight despite watching your diet.
Even the opposite case can also occur, when you do not gain weight, regardless of what you consume, even if they are large amounts of carbohydrates, fiber and vitamins.
7. Lack of concentration
When hypothyroidism is very advanced, you cannot concentrate and you have a poor memory.
8. Headaches
Hypothyroidism can be an underlying cause when you have headaches or migraines for no apparent reason.
9. Double chin or double chin
One of the characteristics of hypothyroidism is a double chin or double chin.
This shows up as a ball hanging from the neck, in front of the windpipe. What is actually seen is the hypertrophied gland.
10. Very thirsty
Despite fluid retention, you feel very thirsty. Likewise, the skin looks dry and dull.
11. Lack of eyebrow hair
This is another feature of hypothyroidism, the lack of hair on the eyebrows.
Due to little information about the symptoms of this disease, very few people know that this is a sign of a metabolic problem.
12. Difficulty getting pregnant
Due to the abnormal menstrual periods caused by this pathology , fertility problems occur.
13. Apathy and indifference
Hypothyroidism causes apathy, listlessness, discouragement, and drowsiness. Affected people have little enthusiasm for doing normal day-to-day activities and may become depressed.
14. Arrhythmia
This condition can lead to bradycardia which, if left untreated, can lead to cardiac arrest. The arrhythmia or irregular heartbeat may also be due to a thyroid complication.
15. Varied health problems
Hypothyroidism can cause variations in blood pressure, either up or down, high cholesterol, and joint muscle pain.
16. Decreased desire for sex
Hypothyroidism causes a decrease in libido. If this problem is occurring, the recommendation is to seek medical help to confirm if it is actually caused by this condition.
Can hypothyroidism be prevented?
So far no way has been found to prevent this disease.
The most advisable thing is to control the level of iodine in the diet and adjust it to an amount that does not affect the thyroid gland.
In any case, seek medical advice to adopt a diet low in iodine.
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