Recognizing the Signs of Hypothyroidism

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In: A-Z Health, Healthy Living, Thyroid
Hypothyroidism can be difficult to identify initially. Symptoms develop gradually. Many symptoms, such as exhaustion, overlap with other conditions. You might attribute them to normal aging or stress. These symptoms occur because your thyroid gland has stopped functioning properly. It’s no longer producing sufficient thyroid hormone, which plays a role in regulating numerous bodily systems.  

What Happens When Thyroid Levels Drop

Hypothyroidism can leave you feeling exhausted and unusually sensitive to cold temperatures. Weight gain may occur as well. Insufficient thyroid levels can also impact your emotional state and cognitive function. You might experience:
  • Depression
  • Memory difficulties
  • Mental fog or confusion
Discomfort, stiffness, and swelling may develop in your:
  • Muscles
  • Joints
  • Face
  • Eye region
  • Tongue
Additional symptoms include a raspy voice, slowed speech, and hearing difficulties. Constipation is another common sign. Women may notice menstrual cycle irregularities. Skin changes can manifest as well. Your skin may become:
  • Cool and pale in appearance
  • Dry and prone to itching
  • Rough or flaky in texture
  • Yellowish in color, particularly on foot soles, palms, and facial “smile lines”
Nail changes include brittleness or slowed growth. Hair alterations are also common—it may become brittle or coarse, or you might notice hair thinning or loss. Eyebrow thinning or loss can occur, typically affecting the outer third of the brows. Learn more about how thyroid problems can cause hair loss. Since hypothyroidism can compromise cardiovascular and respiratory function, you might also experience:
  • Reduced heart rate
  • Breathlessness during physical activity
  • Muscle weakness
  • Elevated blood pressure
  • High cholesterol readings
 

Hypothyroidism in Children and Teens

While this condition predominantly affects adults, children can develop it too. They display similar symptoms to adults, but since thyroid hormones regulate growth, they often experience stunted growth. Puberty onset may be delayed. Teenage girls might face menstrual irregularities. Children with hypothyroidism may struggle academically due to memory challenges and persistent tiredness. Regardless of your age, if you’re experiencing these symptoms, schedule an appointment with your doctor. They can prescribe medication to restore your thyroid levels and help you feel like yourself again.