World Thyroid Day: 7 Signs And Symptoms Of Thyroid Imbalance You Shouldn’t Ignore

The thyroid plays an important role in regulating the body's metabolism. When the thyroid gland produces too much or too little hormone, it can lead to a variety of health issues.

Signs And Symptoms Of Thyroid Imbalance You Shouldn’t Ignore

Fatigue and Weakness: One of the main symptoms of thyroid issues is prolonged tiredness. Hypothyroidism leads to persistent fatigue even after a restful night's sleep. Whereas hyperthyroidism causes muscle tissue breakdown resulting in muscle weakness and making it harder to accomplish daily chores. (Image Source: Getty)

Mood Swings and Mental Health Issues: Hypothyroidism is often associated with depression, memory problems, and difficulty in concentrating. Hyperthyroidism, however, can lead to anxiety, irritability, and restlessness, impacting the overall emotional well-being. (Image Source: Getty)

Temperature Sensitivity: Thyroid disorders can result in the body becoming overly sensitive to cold or heat, indicating a potential issue with its functionality. Due to a reduced metabolic rate, hypothyroidism can cause an individual to feel unusually cold, even in warm environments. Conversely, hyperthyroidism can cause excessive sweating and an intolerance to heat, as the body’s metabolism speeds up. (Image Source: Getty)

Unexplained Weight Changes: Metabolism will be slowed down by hypothyroidism, or an underactive thyroid, which can cause weight gain despite dietary or exercise changes. On the other hand, weight loss can occur despite an increase in appetite and food intake due to hyperthyroidism, or an overactive thyroid. (Image Source: Getty)

Changes in Heart Rate: Thyroid has a direct impact on cardiac health. Hypothyroidism can cause a slow heart rate (bradycardia), leading to fatigue and dizziness. Hyperthyroidism can cause a rapid or irregular heartbeat (tachycardia), palpitations, and a pounding sensation in your chest. (Image Source: Getty)

Digestive Issues: Hypothyroidism can cause constipation due to a slowed digestive process. Hyperthyroidism, on the other hand, leads to diarrhoea or more frequent bowel movements due to an accelerated digestive system. (Image Source: Getty)

Hair and Skin Changes: Thyroid imbalances can also affect hair and skin. Hypothyroidism induces dry, coarse hair and skin, as well as hair loss. Hyperthyroidism leads to thinning of hair. These changes occur because thyroid hormones are essential for maintaining healthy skin and hair growth. (Image Source: Getty)

Inputs by: Dr Pramila Kalra, HOD & Consultant – Department of Endocrinology, Ramaiah Memorial Hospital, Bengaluru. (Image Source: Getty)