The thyroid is a butterfly-shaped gland located at the base of your neck. This powerful gland controls many of the metabolic functions within the body. When it is not functioning correctly, you can experience many symptoms. Hypothyroidism occurs when the thyroid does not produce enough hormones. Researchers have shown there is a strong association between Hypothyroidism and several health conditions, including gallbladder disease, diabetes, liver disease, heart disease, and kidney disease. In addition to these common problems, there are numerous other symptoms of Hypothyroidism.
Hypothyroidism Symptoms
Autoimmune Disorders
Hypothyroidism can be associated with a variety of autoimmune disorders and endocrine diseases. Some sufferers experience hair loss, chronic fatigue, psoriasis, insulin resistance, and pernicious anemia. Researchers have also associated Diabetes, Rheumatoid arthritis, and Multiple sclerosis with Hypothyroidism.
Body Temperature Changes
Hypothyroid patients often experience changes in body temperature. They may experience heat or cold intolerances, cold, clammy palms or feet, excessive perspiration, and a low basal body temperature.
Digestive Disorders
Digestive disorders, such as food sensitivities, food allergies, and acid reflux, can occur when hormone levels are low. Flatulence, a distended stomach, irritable bowel syndrome, and diverticulosis also may be experienced.
Low Energy Levels
Hypothyroid patients often experience low energy levels, weakness, and chronic fatigue. Sleep problems, including sleep apnea, insomnia, and snoring, can contribute to it.
Eye Issues and Vision Troubles
Vision troubles, including double vision, sensitivity to light, and blurred vision, can be symptoms of an underactive thyroid. Eye issues, such as dry eyes, drooping eyelids, dark circles, and puffiness, can also be symptoms. Recent studies have shown that Hypothyroidism can increase the risk of developing glaucoma.
Hair and Nail Issues
Hypothyroidism can be associated with dry, brittle hair and nails. Additionally, sufferers may experience ingrown toenails, changes in hair texture, premature balding or gray hair, and thinning of the outer third of the eyebrow.
Hearing Difficulties
Tinnitus and oversensitive hearing can occur in hypothyroid patients. They may also experience excess earwax, itchy ears, and vertigo.
Frequent Infections
Those with an underactive thyroid often experience frequent infections and chronic illnesses. A low immune system, usually associated with low thyroid levels, can cause recurrent yeast infections, respiratory infections, and urinary tract infections.
Mouth and Throat Issues
Oral issues often plague hypothyroid patients, including gingivitis, cavities, and halitosis. They may have difficulty swallowing due to a thyroid nodule or goiter, a swollen tongue, or a dry mouth.
Pain, Numbness, and Tingling
Chronic pain, tendonitis, fibromyalgia, numbness,s and tingling of the extremities plague hypothyroid patients. When the body does not receive enough hormones, various painful problems can occur, including joint pain, muscle stiffness, migraines, and plantar fasciitis.
Reproductive Disorders
Women may experience menstrual disorders, including irregular periods, PMS, menopause, and polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). Additionally, women may suffer infertility, miscarriage, and stillbirths due to improper thyroid levels. Men may suffer from diminished testosterone levels, loss of libido, and sexual dysfunction, including erectile issues and low sperm levels.
Skin Problems
You may also experience dry, itchy skin and flaking. Acne, rashes, and eczema, along with pale skin, wrinkles, and hives, are also associated with Hypothyroidism.
Weight Problems
An underactive thyroid often causes weight gain, obesity, and the inability to lose weight. Others may experience weight loss, diminished appetite, and anorexia.
Hypothyroidism can play a role in a myriad of medical conditions, including emotional disturbances, urinary tract infections, asthma, and allergies. People may also experience heart palpitations, high blood pressure, and elevated cholesterol.
Ready to Heal your Thyroid
If you are suffering from the symptoms of Hypothyroidism, our integrative practitioners specializing in thyroid treatment can help. They have helped thousands of patients get relief from the symptoms of Hypothyroidism and other thyroid disorders.