Nine Possible Signs of Thyroid Trouble

The thyroid, a butterfly-shaped gland in our neck controls, a lot of our body’s functions, especially metabolism, mood and fatigue. A thyroid that’s not working right could be boosting your risk of everything from weight gain (or unhealthy loss) to heart disease. That’s why if you have any symptoms of a thyroid condition you should talk to your doctor. Here are some signs to look out for:

Exhaustion You’re still feeling fatigued after you awaken even if you’ve slept solidly for at least eight hours, find it tough to get going during the day, and nap a lot -- or you’re jittery and have insomnia.

Muscle And Joint Pain Aches, pains and a tendency to develop carpal tunnel in your hands or arms -- as well as weakness in your legs – can be related to an malfunctioning thyroid.

Hair And/Or Skin Problems Hair issues include loss and turning brittle, coarse and dry -- and an unusual thinning of hair in the outer edge of the eyebrow. Skin may become particularly fragile or thin.

An Uncomfortable Or Swollen Neck Discomfort with turtlenecks or neckties, a hoarse voice or a visibly enlarged thyroid can all be symptoms of thyroid disease.

Bowel Issues Long-term constipation is associated with hypothyroidism (an underactive thyroid), while diarrhea or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is associated with hyperthyroidism (an overactive thyroid.)

It's In The Family If you have a family history of thyroid problems, you are at a higher risk of having a thyroid condition yourself. In the past it may have been referred to as a goiter.

Cholesterol High cholesterol that’s not improved by diet, exercise or cholesterol-lowering medication can be a sign of undiagnosed hypothyroidism. Unusually low cholesterol levels may be a sign of hyperthyroidism.

Depression And/Or Anxiety This includes sudden onset of panic disorder. Hypothyroidism is typically associated with depression, while hyperthyroidism is more commonly noted with anxiety or panic attacks.

Weight Shifts If you’re watching your weight and exercising, or eating and still losing weight, it’s a sign your metabolism isn’t functioning properly – and your thyroid gland might be the culprit.