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10 Signs that you could have thyroid dysfunction

The thyroid gland is one of the largest endocrine glands in your body, it’s about the size of your 2 thumbs held together in a “V” shape, and it weighs around 60g. The Thyroid gland is found in the front part of your neck, and is responsible for a number of vital functions: the hormones T3 and T4 control your metabolism and how your body responds to other hormones.

So, if your Thyroid gland isn’t working properly it’s easy to see why you’ll notice very quickly if something is wrong. The problem is, sometimes the symptoms are vague and this can it difficult to diagnose. The gland can either be over-active (called Hyperthyroidism) or under-active (called Hypothyroidism) and because no one knows your body as well as you do, by knowing these common symptoms of Thyroid dysfunction you can alert your doctor if you suspect a problem:

  • A lump in the neck: A lump or swelling in the front part of your neck may be a Goitre. This could be very obvious or you may just feel discomfort when you swallow, find clothing around the neck restrictive or your voice may become hoarse
  • Weight loss: If you find you’re losing weight without trying to, have a racing heart beat and heat intolerance, your thyroid gland may be over-functioning (hyperthyroidism)
  • Weight gain: Putting on weight despite eating well and exercising? Feeling particularly sensitive to the cold this winter? Your thyroid may be under-functioning (hypothyroidism)
  • Hair loss and brittle hair: Your hair feels brittle and dry, or it’s falling out.
  • Dry, fragile or thin skin: Spending a fortune on moisturiser for your skin that’s become dry and scaly? Do small bumps or knocks damage your skin?
  • Constipation or diarrhoea: Changes in your toilet habits, for example constipation, bloating, diarrhoea or bloating. Have you been diagnosed with IBS? Get your thyroid checked! Persistent diarrhoea and cramping are also symptoms of a dysfunctional thyroid.
  • Menstrual irregularities: heavy, frequent periods? Light, irregular periods? Struggling to fall pregnant?
  • High cholesterol: Despite being on medication and a low cholesterol diet you just can’t seem to get your cholesterol levels down? Ask your doctor to check your Thyroid function
  • Fatigue, low energy and sleeping difficulties: Sleeping a lot but you still feel tired? No energy during the day, or you’re unable to sleep at night and feel exhausted the next day?
  • Depression/low mood/anxiety: Are you taking medication for depression or anxiety? Make sure your doctor checks your thyroid function before starting you on treatment!

Written by: Dr Lynelle Hoeks