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 properly, you can experience a host of symptoms. Hypothyroidism occurs when the thyroid does not produce enough hormones. Scientific research has shown that hypothyroidism is linked to gall bladder 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. Diabetes, Rheumatoid arthritis and Multiple sclerosis have also been associated with hypothyroidism.
Body Temperature Changes
Changes in the temperature in the body often occur in hypothyroid patients. 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 suffer from low energy levels, weakness and chronic fatigue. This can be related to sleep problems, including sleep apnea, insomnia and snoring.
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 there can be an increased risk of developing glaucoma with hypothyroidism.
Hair and Nail Issues
Dry, brittle hair and nails can be associated with hypothyroidism. 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
Frequent infections and chronic illnesses are often experienced by those with an underactive thyroid. Recurrent yeast infections, respiratory infections and urinary tract infections can be caused by a low immune system, which is often associated with low thyroid levels.
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 and tingling of the extremities plague hypothyroid patients. When the body does not receive enough hormones, a variety 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. Additionally, women may suffer with infertility, miscarriages and still births due to improper thyroid levels. Men may suffer with diminished testosterone levels, loss of libido and sexual dysfunction, including erectile issues and low sperm levels.
Skin Problems
Dry, itchy skin and flaking may also be experienced. Acne, rashes and eczema, along with pale skin, wrinkles and hives are also associated with hypothyroidism.
Weight Problems
Weight gain, obesity and the inability to lose weight are often caused by an underactive thyroid. Others may experience weight loss, a diminished appetite and anorexia.
Hypothyroidism can play a role in a myriad of medical conditions, including emotional disturbances, urinary tract infections, asthma and allergies. Heart palpitations, high blood pressure and elevated cholesterol levels may also be experienced.
Read 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 hypothyroidism and other thyroid disorders.