Symptoms of Thyroid Problems in Women
What is the thyroid?
The thyroid is a butterfly-shaped gland located at the front of the base of the neck. It is part of the endocrine system and releases hormones that affect metabolism, brain development, and bone maintenance.
When the thyroid over- or underproduces vital hormones, it can lead to a host of different health issues because of how the body relies on these hormones for various functions.
This article discusses types of thyroid disease, their associated symptoms, and what treatment options are available.
Thyroid Disease Symptoms
Symptoms will vary depending on whether your thyroid creates too much or too little of the hormones the body needs. The general symptoms of hypothyroidism include:
Fatigue
Intolerance to cold temperatures
Weight gain
Digestive issues such as constipation
Dry skin
Voice changes
The symptoms associated with hyperthyroidism are:
Heart palpitations
Fatigue
Tremors
Anxiety
Sleep disturbances
Weight loss
Intolerance to hot temperatures
Sweating
Excessive thirst (polydipsia)
First Signs of Thyroid Disease
A person with thyroid disease may not immediately experience all the symptoms mentioned above. The first signs of thyroid disease that should prompt a visit to a healthcare provider include:
Fatigue
Weight gain or loss without diet or exercise changes
A slowed or increased heart rate
Increased sensitivity to temperature
In Women
Women are far more likely to develop thyroid disease than men, which can lead to health consequences affecting their menstrual periods and fertility. The symptoms of thyroid disease may also mimic menopause.
The signs in women can differ depending on whether their thyroid is making too many or too few hormones. However, symptoms that affect sexual health can occur during both hypo- and hyperthyroidism.
Is Thyroid Disease Curable?
Certain thyroid diseases can be cured, such as thyroid cancer. However, in some cases, a person can restore their thyroid to proper functioning levels.
Certain lifestyle factors increase the risk of thyroid disorders. They include:
Smoking, as tobacco contains substances that affect the thyroid gland, causing inflammation and interfering with the absorption of iodine as well as the production of thyroid hormones.
Psychological stress such as a divorce or dealing with the loss of a friend or family member.
Injury or trauma to the thyroid.
History of certain medication use in high amounts, such as lithium (used in many mood stabilizers) and iodine
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