77. Thyroid Problems: Look for These Signs
The thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped gland located just in front of the windpipe (trachea) in your throat. Its normal function is to produce L-thyroxine and L-thyronine, hormones that influence thousands of metabolic processes in the body.
Hyperthyroidism occurs when the thyroid produces too much thyroid hormone.
Some signs and symptoms are:
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•Tremors.
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•Mood swings.
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•Weakness.
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•Diarrhea.
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•Heart palpitations.
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•Heat intolerance.
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•Shortened menstrual periods.
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•Unexplained weight loss.
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•Fine hair (or hair loss).
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•Rapid pulse.
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•Nervousness.
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•Enlarged thyroid gland.
Hypothyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland produces too little thyroid hormone to meet the body’s requirements.
Some signs and symptoms are:
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•Fatigue and excessive sleeping.
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•Dry, pale skin.
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•Deepening of the voice.
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•Weight gain.
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•Dry hair that tends to fall out.
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•Decrease in appetite.
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•Frequently feeling cold.
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•Puffy face (especially around the eyes).
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•Heavy menstrual periods.
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•Poor memory.
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•Constipation.
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•Enlarged thyroid gland (in some cases).
Either an oversupply or an under supply of thyroid hormones could be life threatening, so if you suspect you have a problem, consult your doctor. Treatment for hyperthyroidism includes taking radioactive iodine or having surgery to suppress the thyroid’s activity. Treatment for hypothyroidism will include supplements of synthetic L-thyroxine to replace what’s lacking.
