Since more than 12% of all Americans suffer from thyroid problems, and several of them aren’t even aware of it, is it possible that you might also be suffering from thyroid problems?
Being responsible for producing and releasing certain hormones in your body, the thyroid happens to be an essential endocrine gland. Taking control of how and how much your body utilizes the energy, your thyroid gland’s main function is to command your metabolism.
There are instances when your thyroid malfunctions, and stops working properly – However, such thyroid problems are commonly occurring conditions and are easily treatable as well.
Although thyroid problems are serious and medication can be used to help with the symptoms of thyroid problems – natural thyroid hormone therapy, accompanied by healthy and doctor-directed lifestyle changes can also make a difference.
What Is A Thyroid?
The thyroid can be explained as a small gland that is shaped like a butterfly and is located right below the adam’s apple, at the base of our necks. Out thyroid glands are responsible for producing two of the main hormones i.e. Thyroxine (T-4) and Triiodothyronine (T-3).
These hormones that the thyroid produces are capable of supporting and determining the pace at which our body consumes carbohydrates and fats, while also affecting every single cell in our body. Along with the capability of controlling and maintaining the temperature of our bodies, they also help control the production of protein in our bodies, as well as having effects on our heart rate.
How Thyroid Works In A Body?
As an integral part of your endocrine system, the thyroid has command over several important functions of your body, since it produces and secretes certain specific hormones. The most important function of a thyroid is the control it has over the speed of your metabolism i.e. your metabolic rate; this happens to be a process of your body that converts the consumed food into the energy that your body needs – as every single cell in your body requires energy in order to function and play their part. When a person has thyroid problems, and it stops functioning properly; this can end up having adverse effects on the entire body.
How To Tell If You Have Thyroid Problems?
If a person starts suffering from thyroid problems, it isn’t really an easy task to identify if that is what the problem is – since the symptoms of thyroid problems are quite similar to several other conditions.
These symptoms of thyroid problems are inclusive of:
- Increase in appetite
- Changes in your period
- Extra sensitivity to heat
- Irregular bowel movements
- Swelling at the base of your neck
- Feeling fatigued
- Insomnia
- Thinner skin
- Fine, brittle hair
- Sudden weight loss, with exact same diet
- Palpitations
- Nervousness, anxiety, or irritability
- Tremors i.e. trembling in your hands and fingers
- Excessive sweating
What Are Early Warning Signs Of Thyroid Problems?
The early warning signs of thyroid problems or minimized thyroid function include:
- Cold intolerance/body temperature problems
- Weight gain
- Hoarseness and pain at the front of the neck due to inflammation of the thyroid gland
- Mood imbalances and mood swings — depression, anxiety, nervousness
- Unexplained tiredness
- Constipation
- Dry skin
- Muscle weakness/pain
- Hair loss
- Heart palpitations
- Irregular menstrual periods
What Are The Complications You Can Face From Thyroid Disorder?
Untreated thyroid problems can lead to several other health-related problems, including:
- Infertility
- Birth defects
- Myxedema coma
- Goiter
- Heart problems
- Peripheral neuropathy
Are Thyroid Problems Genetic?
Out of all the people who have so far reported thyroid problems – more than 75% of those patients have reported having at least one side of their family with such thyroid problems.
There are much greater chances of you suffering from thyroid problems, the more people in your family have experienced such thyroid problems, creating a hereditary root.
Can Thyroid Problems Affect Your Breathing?
There are a couple of thyroid problems that are known to cause pulmonary problems i.e. lungs related problems in the patient; such as hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, nodular goiter, and thyroid cancer. Since thyroid problems are a leading cause of respiratory muscle weakness, and consequently affect and minimize pulmonary functions; leading to breathing problems.
Can A Woman With Thyroid Problems Get Pregnant?
It can become quite difficult to achieve the process of conceiving if there are thyroid problems in women, and it can also become a cause for trouble during the pregnancy phase if conceived.
However, if the thyroid problems are under control or treated or are being successfully treated; then there is absolutely no reason for a woman to not conceive, have a successful pregnancy, and have a healthy baby eventually.
Can Thyroid Problems Cause Headaches?
Migraine, tension-type headaches, and hypothyroidism constitute very common medical conditions. Headache is reported to be one of the most commonly suffered symptoms of people with thyroid problems; occurring in as high as one-third of all patients.
Can Thyroid Cause Dizziness Balance Problems?
Manifesting as dizziness at times – thyroid problems very commonly lead to having the patient feel dizzy and out of balance as a symptom of this condition.
The very commonly occurring symptoms of thyroid problems that can potentially become a cause for dizziness as well are; high heart rate, shortness of breath, and lightheadedness.
The release of insufficient thyroid hormone (hypothyroidism) may result in low blood pressure and a slowed heart rate, causing simultaneous dizziness, weakness, lethargy, as well as chills, this can lead to neurological disorders and cause balance problems.
Disclaimer
This blog is for informational & educational purposes only, and does not intend to substitute any professional medical advice or consultation. For any health related concerns, please consult with your physician, or call 911.
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About The Author
Dr. Syra Hanif M.D.Board Certified Primary Care Physician
Dr. Syra Hanif is a board-certified Primary Care Physician (PCP) dedicated to providing compassionate, patient-centered healthcare.
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