10 Signs You Have Might Have A Thyroid Problem & What To Do About It
The thyroid gland is a powerhouse in the human body. But because a lot of it’s magic happens behind the scenes in the endocrine (hormonal) system, when things go wrong they can be hard to pick up on. There are a few telltale signs that we tend to think nothing of, but when they begin to arise collectively (or sometimes on their own), they begin to point to a thyroid problem. Here are 10 of the most common that you may be struggling with:
1. Weight Changes or Inability To Lose/Gain Weight
Unexplained and rapid weight loss or weight gain is difficult to comprehend when it’s not a specific goal and the inability to gain or lose weight can be a frustrating battle. However, these two different instances are often a sign that you may be struggling with a thyroid problem.
2. Changes In Appetite
Increased appetite and almost insatiable hunger can be a clear indication of struggling with hyperthyroidism or an overactive thyroid gland. Likewise, a poor or nonexistent appetite may be a sign of hypothyroidism, when your gland isn’t functioning as swiftly as needed.
3. Constipation or Changes In Bowel Habits
Talking about our bowel movements may seem embarrassing, but it’s one of the best ways to figure out what’s going on inside our bodies. Frequent constipation is a sign of hypothyroidism, just as increasingly frequent bowel movements may indicate an overactive thyroid.
4. Temperature Sensitivity
You may have come to figure out that thyroid signs often work in opposites. If you’re struggling with an intolerance to cold it may indicate that you have an underactive thyroid, and an intolerance to heat often is a sign of hyperthyroidism.
5. Coarse, Brittle Hair or Hair Loss
Changes to your natural hair can be signs of thyroid problems. These include coarseness, brittleness, and at times hair loss. There are 6 key links between the thyroid and hair loss.
6. Extreme Ongoing Fatigue
Many of us have experienced exhaustion after a big week at work, but constant fatigue is more consuming. It impacts both mental and physical function and is a very common sign of hypothyroidism.
7. Racing Heart or Palpitations
An overactive thyroid can trigger increased processes throughout the body. One common sign is a racing heart or sporadic palpitations. Over time these alone can have significant effects on the body, especially when involved in a thyroid disorder.
8. Noticeable Tremors
Another system impacted by hyperthyroidism is the nervous system, with many people showing noticeable signs of tremors.
9. Altered Mental State; Depression, Nervousness, Anxiety, Memory Loss, Irritability
A malfunctioning thyroid has an incredible ability to alter your mental state. Depression, memory loss and slowed thinking are often reflective of hypothyroidism. Nervousness, anxiety and irritability are contrastingly signs of an overactive thyroid.
10. Enlarged Thyroid Gland
One of the clearest indications of a thyroid problem is any changes to the thyroid gland. Typically it may appear enlarged or swollen, known as goiter.
You may experience these independently, but if you are experiencing a handful of collective signs and symptoms it may be an indicator that you have a thyroid problem. But all is not lost, there are simple steps you can take to support any imbalance.
Remove Gluten From Your Diet
Several scientific studies have backed the theory that there is a strong link between autoimmune thyroid disease and celiac; a misguided autoimmune response to gluten. This connection is merely a case of mistaken identity. The molecular structure of the gluten protein is similar to the thyroid gland, so the antibodies that attack the gluten begin to attack thyroid tissue. Any attack on the gland can impair function and not all gluten intolerances show up in tests for celiac, so it’s best to begin by ruling this out of your diet altogether.
Get Enough Sleep
Sleep is one of nature’s best medicines. It’s time for your body to rest and repair, so getting at least 8 hours is vital. Sleep disturbances are common in cases of hypo and hyperthyroidism, but the problematic paradox is that sleep is vital to help combat symptoms such as fatigue and brain fog. Start snuggling into bed with a cup of chamomile tea and a good book to practice a blissful wind-down ritual.
Manage Stress Levels & Response
If sleep is one of the best things for our body, stress is one of the worst. When bodies are under stress they produce the hormones cortisol and adrenaline. These are definitely needed if you’re being chased by a lion, but less so when you’re sitting at your desk. And the science is now showing that these hormones can impact thyroid function in at least five different ways.
Get Your Lab Testing Completed
Observing signs and symptoms are one of the best ways to identify a potential thyroid problem, but understanding exactly how it’s happening is the key to management. With guidance and advice from a professional, you can get a number of thyroid function tests to determine exactly what imbalances are occurring. This will help to shape your management.
Remove Exposure to Chlorine, Fluoride & Bromine
These three, potentially toxic chemicals are halogens - a family of non-metal elements that share similar chemical properties. With chlorine in swimming pools and fluoride in water supplies, they’re also becoming increasingly difficult to avoid. Iodine is another halogen, which plays a vital role in thyroid health, but these three toxins tend to block the body’s ability to absorb the important chemical.
Work With A Practitioner
Working with an experienced, qualified practitioner is one of the best ways you can address any thyroid problems. They will be able to work to your individual needs without dismissing your values or any health non-negotiables you may have.
Melissa Briggs is an experienced Brisbane based Naturopath with a particular interest in women’s health and thyroid disorders. Need help with your health? Get in touch here.