It is currently estimated that more than 20 million Americans suffer from issues with their thyroid gland. Not only can thyroid problems lead to potentially serious health concerns for mothers if left unchecked, but they also severely impact one’s quality of life. It is also an unfortunate fact that many of the underlying symptoms can mimic other conditions and this is why it is important to consult with a physician. We should nonetheless briefly examine some of the most common warning signs that an issue may exist. You will then be able to take action at the appropriate time.
An Overview of Thyroid-Related Conditions
Before we begin to delve into symptoms related to thyroid problems, it is important to point out that the majority of conditions can be broken down into two primary categories:
- Hyperthyroidism (Graves’ disease)
- Hypothyroidism (Hashimoto’s disease is an example)
Hyperthyroidism occurs when your thyroid gland produces too much of a substance known as thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH). On the contrary, hypothyroidism takes place when your gland is unable to produce sufficient quantities. Now that we have a basic understanding of these two scenarios, let’s take a look at their associated symptoms.
The Signs of Hyperthyroidism
Hyperthyroidism is thought to affect approximately one per cent of all women. If your thyroid becomes overactive, here are some of the early warning signs to watch out for:
- Nervousness, irritability and feelings of anxiety
- A rapid heartbeat
- Profuse sweating
- Difficulty sleeping
- Weight loss
- Weakness in the muscles
- Eyes that appear to bulge (especially common with Graves’ disease)
As some of these symptoms may appear milder than others, it is important to speak with a physician in order to obtain a proper diagnosis.
Warnings that Hypothyroidism May be Present
There are also times when your thyroid is functioning less efficiently than it should. This is known as hypothyroidism (an underactive gland). Some prevalent symptoms are as follows:
- Fatigue
- Depression
- A slow heart rate
- Increased sensitivity to cold
- Unexplained weight gain
- Issues with your memory
- Dry skin
Hypothyroidism is actually much more prevalent than hyperthyroidism; impacting up to 4.6 per cent of the population. It is also thought to affect more women than men.
What Treatment Options are Available?
The good news is that both of these conditions can be effectively treated. For example, companies such as Armour Thyroid UK manufacture tablets to treat underactive thyroid glands. There are likewise so-called “anti-thyroid” medications such as methimazole which can moderate an overly active gland.
On a final note, we should mention that some women will develop problems with their thyroid during or immediately after pregnancy. This is why knowing what to look for in advance is the best way to develop a proactive mindset. If you are experiencing one or more of the symptoms mentioned above, it is wise to speak with your physician.
