What Are the Symptoms of an Abnormal Thyroid?

3 min read

At any given time, the human body is delicately balancing different chemicals and processes that keep our bodies functioning properly.

When these processes or chemicals enter a surplus or deficit, it can throw off the entire body and cause problems—some of which are more concerning than others.

What Does a Thyroid Gland Do?

Your thyroid gland is an organ located in your neck that is part of the endocrine system.

The thyroid creates and releases hormones to the body to regulate your digestion, breathing, muscles, bones, mood, nervous system, brain development, and metabolism.

What If My Body Has an Abnormal Thyroid?

Some patients notice symptoms, while others are unable to detect an issue.

Metabolism can be thrown off in adults. During pregnancy and childhood, thyroid concerns can affect growth, impact mental development, delay dental processes, and postpone puberty.

If a poorly functioning thyroid remains untreated, it can cause further problems in the future.

What Is Hyperthyroidism?

When the thyroid gland is overactive, too many hormones are flushed into your body. This process is known as hyperthyroidism.

Potential Symptoms

Common hyperthyroidism symptoms in men and women can include:

• Constantly feeling hungry
• Irregular heartbeat
• Irritability
• Light menstrual cycles in women
• Nervousness and anxiety
• Sleeping concerns
• Sweating and hot flashes
• Unexplained weight loss

Hypothyroidism

Conversely, hypothyroidism refers to when the thyroid gland is underactive and not producing enough hormones for the body.

Possible Symptoms

The common signs of an underactive thyroid can be:

• Exhibiting unexplained weight gain
• Changes in hair growth
• Thin, brittle fingernails
• Sensitivity to cold
• Constipation
• Weak muscles
• Trouble sleeping
• Recurrent urinary or respiratory tract infections
• High cholesterol
• Anemia
• Joint and muscle discomfort
• Depression or feeling down
• Dry skin
• Fatigue
• Heavy menstrual bleeding in women

How Can I Fix My Abnormal Thyroid?

Testing for thyroid issues can help catch the problem and address it immediately.

Hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism treatment can be different for everyone, so a medical evaluation is necessary for a diagnosis and treatment plan.

Vitality Medical Wellness Center offers thyroid testing and guidance for patients struggling with thyroid concerns.

What Causes the Thyroid to Become Abnormal?

Many factors can contribute to a thyroid problem, including medication, diet, a preexisting disease such as autoimmune disease, or thyroid nodules.

What Are the Symptoms of Thyroid Nodules?

Sometimes a lump can form on your thyroid, causing what is known as a nodule. Thyroid nodules are a very common occurrence and are rarely cancerous.

Sometimes nodules can create problems for thyroid function. In other cases, they are no cause for concern.

What Causes Thyroid Nodules?

Nodules can develop from various factors, including:

• A cyst
• Cancer
• Family history of thyroid issues
• Iodine deficiency
• Radiation treatment

Symptoms of nodules can include the throat feeling hoarse, a tickling sensation, difficulty breathing or swallowing, and swollen lymph nodes.

Want More Information?

If you identify with any of the symptoms listed above, then we encourage you to schedule a consultation with Dr. Cristy Thomas, DNP, FNP-BC, APRN  for testing and an accurate diagnosis.

We can be reached online or by calling (702) 731-1200.