Signs and Symptoms of Thyroid Disease

Thyroid disease can be found in over 200 million patients worldwide.[Bayliss and Tunbridge] With this many people affected, it's a good idea to know the signs and symptoms of thyroid disease. It can be detected by a simple blood test ordered by your doctor. If you notice three or more of the following symptoms or signs of either hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism, please discuss your symptoms with your physician.

Hyperthyroidism is a thyroid gland that is over active. From top to bottom the following signs/symptoms are some of the more common indicators:

Nervousness and Irritability

Difficulty sleeping

Bulging eyes/Unblinking stare

Hoarseness or a deepening of the voice

Persistent dry or sore throat

Difficulty swallowing

Swelling in the neck/Goiter

Rapid or irregular heartbeat

Menstrual Irregularities/ Light Periods

Infertility

Excessive vomiting in pregnancy

1^st trimester miscarriage

Frequent bowel movements

Warm, moist palms

Weight loss

Heat Intolerance

Increased sweating

Family history of thyroid disease or diabetes

Hypothyroidism is a condition where the thyroid gland is not performing as well as it should. Some of the signs and symptoms of Hypothyroidism are:

Tiredness

Forgetfulness/Slower thinking

Depression

Inability to concentrate

Puffy eyes

Swelling in the neck/ Goiter

Hoarseness or deepening of the voice

Persistent dry or sore throat

Difficulty swallowing

Slower heartbeat

Menstrual Irregularities/heavy periods

Infertility

Constipation

Muscle weakness/Cramps

Hair loss/Thinning hair

Loss of body hair

Dry, patchy skin

Weight gain

Cold intolerance

Increased cholesterol levels

Family history of thyroid disorder or diabetes

If you suspect you may have either of these conditions based on a combination of the above signs/symptoms, please visit your primary care physician or and endocrinologist.