With the condition hypothyroidism, or in layman’s terms an underactive thyroid, symptoms may at first be subtle and hardly noticed, but as this important gland continues to not function as it should, the signs may become more obvious, and if not treated, quite severe.
The Most Common Underactive Thyroid Symptoms
The most common symptoms of an underactive thyroid gland will usually begin rather slowly, gradually increasing in their intensity and severity over time, and include the following:
- Aching muscles
- Brittle nails
- Constipation
- Depression
- Difficulty concentrating or problems with memory
- Dry skin
- Feeling weak and sluggish
- Heavy menstrual cycles
- Heightened sensitivity to cold temperatures
- High blood cholesterol
- Pain, swelling, or stiffening in the joints
- Pale, wan complexion
- Puffiness in the face
- Tenderness or stiffness in the muscles
- Thinning hair
- Weak muscles
- Yellowish skin
In most cases, the severity of one’s symptoms will depend upon their age and how long they have been affected by hypothyroidism, as well as how serious their condition is in general. Since symptoms tend to get progressively worse, an older person, or their doctor, is far more likely to notice the signs of an underactive thyroid gland than someone who is much younger.
However, hypothyroidism is still often confused with illnesses such as depression, dementia, or Alzheimer’s disease in older adults as it mimics these and many other conditions, making screening for the condition an important aspect of medical care, especially as we age.
Some of the other underactive thyroid symptoms that are a bit less common include:
- Enlarged thyroid gland, also known as “goiter”
- Facial puffiness
- Hoarse, scratchy voice
- Muscle cramps
- Swelling in the legs, feet, arms, and hands
- Unexplained weight gain
Recognizing Underactive Thyroid Symptoms in Infants and Children
While it is rare, hypothyroidism may affect infants, children, and also teenagers, and the symptoms of the condition will vary some from those of an adult. For babies, the signs of an enlarged thyroid gland will include choking on food, difficulties eating, a lack of appetite, and dry skin. Young children and adolescents may also have dry skin, gain weight, and exhibit behavioral problems, or do poorly at school. Teenagers with hypothyroidism may also begin puberty later than what is usually considered to be normal, and they also tend to look far younger than their actual age.
When to Seek Medical Care
It’s important to also recognize when the underactive thyroid symptoms you are experiencing have progressed to the point that you should seek medical care. If your conditions worsen, or you begin to experience new symptoms, it’s wise to contact your doctor for treatment as soon as possible. Also, people who have had surgery on their thyroid gland in the past, or who have had to take anti-thyroid medication should also make note of any changes in their symptoms.
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