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Have you ever felt like your body’s thermostat is completely out of sync? Maybe you’re constantly cold, or perhaps you’re always feeling a bit too warm. Or, have you noticed weight creeping on (or falling off) even though you haven’t changed your eating or exercise habits? These can all be subtle, early warning signs of thyroid problems. As women, we're actually more likely to face thyroid issues, so it’s especially important to stay in tune with these changes our bodies might be signaling.
Understanding the thyroid gland
Before we get into the signs to watch for, let’s quickly go over what the thyroid gland does. This small, butterfly-shaped gland sits right at the base of your neck, just below your Adam’s apple. Despite its small size, the thyroid has a huge impact on your health. It produces hormones that regulate your metabolism, manage your energy levels, and even influence your mood. When everything’s functioning as it should, you probably don’t even think about it. But when the thyroid starts to malfunction, it can throw everything off balance and make you feel less like yourself.
7 early signs of thyroid problems
Thyroid problems tend to fall into two categories: hyperthyroidism (when the thyroid is overactive and produces too much hormone) and hypothyroidism (when it’s underactive and produces too little hormone). Both can lead to a range of symptoms that might seem random, but together they form a picture of thyroid dysfunction.
Unexplained weight changes
One of the most noticeable early signs of thyroid issues is weight fluctuation that doesn’t match your lifestyle. If you’ve been steadily losing weight without trying, it might be a sign of hyperthyroidism. On the other hand, if you’re gaining weight despite sticking to your regular diet and exercise routine, it could mean hypothyroidism. It’s frustrating when the numbers on the scale seem to defy your efforts, but understanding that your thyroid could be playing a role can help you approach the issue with a little more clarity and patience.
Fatigue and changes in energy levels
Do you feel like you’re constantly running on empty, even if you’ve had a full night’s sleep? Or perhaps you’re dealing with bursts of energy that leave you jittery, followed by total crashes? Changes in energy levels are common early signs of thyroid dysfunction. With hypothyroidism, you might feel like you can barely drag yourself out of bed, and everyday tasks may seem exhausting. In contrast, hyperthyroidism can make you feel almost wired or anxious, like you’ve had one too many cups of coffee. If these energy swings don’t align with your lifestyle, it might be worth discussing them with your doctor.
Mood swings and mental health changes
There’s a surprising connection between thyroid health and mental well-being. An overactive thyroid can lead to feelings of anxiety, irritability, or even panic attacks. Meanwhile, an underactive thyroid is often linked to depression, moodiness, or a general sense of “brain fog.” If you’ve been feeling unusually emotional, sad, or anxious without a clear cause, your thyroid may be trying to get your attention. We all experience stress, but persistent or intense shifts in mood can sometimes be a sign of something deeper.
Changes in heart rate
Have you felt your heart racing unexpectedly, or noticed that you’re more winded during exercise than usual? Changes in heart rate can signal thyroid issues. Hyperthyroidism often causes a rapid or irregular heartbeat, while hypothyroidism can slow things down. Even at rest, you might sense that your heart is beating faster or slower than usual. This can feel unsettling, so if you’re noticing a change in your pulse or heart rhythm, it’s worth having it checked out.
Skin and hair changes
Our skin and hair can reveal a lot about what’s going on internally. If your thyroid is underactive, your skin might start to feel dry, rough, or scaly, and your hair could become brittle and begin to thin. On the other hand, if your thyroid is overactive, you might experience increased sweating and skin thinning, making your skin feel delicate and almost paper-like. While some changes in skin and hair texture are normal with age, sudden or unexplained shifts could be a sign that your thyroid needs attention.
Digestive issues
Believe it or not, the thyroid can even affect your digestive system. An overactive thyroid may speed things up, leading to more frequent bowel movements or even diarrhea. Hypothyroidism, however, can cause the opposite problem: constipation. If you’re noticing persistent changes in your digestion that don’t match any changes in diet or lifestyle, it could be worth considering your thyroid health.
Temperature sensitivity
Are you always bundling up because you feel cold, even when others around you seem comfortable? Or maybe you’re the one who’s always fanning yourself, feeling way too warm. Temperature sensitivity can also be a signal of thyroid trouble. Hypothyroidism often leaves people feeling perpetually chilly, while hyperthyroidism can make you feel warm or sweaty, even in mild temperatures. If your temperature comfort zone seems out of sync with everyone else’s, your thyroid could be at the root of it.
When to see a doctor for thyroid issues
If you’ve recognized a few of these symptoms in yourself, don’t panic. Many of these signs could be related to other causes, but it’s still important to pay attention to what your body is telling you. If these symptoms are persistent or affecting your daily life, make an appointment with your healthcare provider. They can perform a simple blood test (more on how to ask for a full thyroid panel here!) to check your thyroid hormone levels and help you get to the bottom of what’s going on.
Remember, you are your own best advocate when it comes to your health. Trust your instincts and seek medical advice if you feel like something is off. The good news is that thyroid problems are manageable with the right treatment, especially when caught early. By staying aware of these warning signs and listening to your body, you’re already taking a huge step toward taking control of your health.
Your thyroid may be small, but it has a mighty impact on how you feel day to day. Give it the attention it deserves, and don’t hesitate to take action if you think something’s up.
Kristyn Hodgdon is the Co-Founder and Chief Creative Officer at Rescripted.