How to Spot Early Signs of Hypothyroidism
Evaluate your energy levels.One of the most common signs of potential hypothyroidism is fatigue, and/or a recent drop in your energy levels., Observe any recent weight changes.Hypothyroidism may also cause you to gain weight, again because your...
Step-by-Step Guide
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Step 1: Evaluate your energy levels.One of the most common signs of potential hypothyroidism is fatigue
Because the thyroid is directly related to your metabolism, hypothyroidism correlates to a slower metabolism which can lead to a feeling of fatigue and sluggishness. -
Step 2: and/or a recent drop in your energy levels.
If you have been gaining weight lately for a seemingly unexplainable reason, it is possible that this is related to hypothyroidism. , When your metabolism is slowed (as it is in hypothyroidism), you cannot generate the same internal heat to keep yourself warm. , If you are noticing any of these things, especially in conjunction with other more common signs, and symptoms such as fatigue and weight gain, book an appointment with your doctor to have your thyroid tested. , For others, it can lead to unusual snoring and/or fitful sleeps with awakenings during the night (as sometimes hypothyroidism can lead to concurrent sleep apnea). , If you are having bowel movements fewer than three times per week (over a period of at least three weeks), or significantly less than your normal, consult your physician.
This may or may not be related to hypothyroidism; either way, it is something that is beneficial to speak up about as your doctor can help you to manage this problem. , If you are finding it harder than normal to catch your breath walking or working out at the gym, it may be a sign of thyroid abnormalities. (If it is not hypothyroidism, unexplained shortness of breath is still a concern that should be evaluated by your physician.) , Signs that occur less frequently (but may still be indicative of hypothyroidism) include:
Mild swelling around the eyes Menstrual irregularities in women Mild high blood pressure (this will require a doctor's evaluation) Elevated cholesterol (this will require a doctor's evaluation) Memory lossCognitive dysfunction (memory, concentration) Hoarse voice Leg swelling Slow heart rate -
Step 3: Observe any recent weight changes.Hypothyroidism may also cause you to gain weight
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Step 4: again because your metabolism is slowed down below its normal level.
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Step 5: Notice how you feel in the cold.Another potential consequence of hypothyroidism is an intolerance of cold weather
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Step 6: meaning that you feel less able to handle being out in the cold.
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Step 7: Consider any changes in your skin
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Step 8: or eyes.Hypothyroidism can lead to signs such as drier
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Step 9: thicker skin (from the glycosaminoglycan deposits in your tissues); a lack of sweating (due to decreased metabolism); fewer
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Step 10: coarser hairs on your body or eyebrows; and/or brittle nails.
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Step 11: Watch for changes in your mood or sleep habits.For some
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Step 12: hypothyroidism can manifest as a depressed mood.
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Step 13: Take note of unusual constipation.Hypothyroidism can also lead to constipation.
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Step 14: Be aware of any unusual shortness of breath.Sometimes hypothyroidism can cause you to be short of breath
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Step 15: particularly during exertion.
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Step 16: Be on the lookout for other potential signs.Hypothyroidism can manifest in a variety of different ways
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Step 17: and varies from person to person.
Detailed Guide
Because the thyroid is directly related to your metabolism, hypothyroidism correlates to a slower metabolism which can lead to a feeling of fatigue and sluggishness.
If you have been gaining weight lately for a seemingly unexplainable reason, it is possible that this is related to hypothyroidism. , When your metabolism is slowed (as it is in hypothyroidism), you cannot generate the same internal heat to keep yourself warm. , If you are noticing any of these things, especially in conjunction with other more common signs, and symptoms such as fatigue and weight gain, book an appointment with your doctor to have your thyroid tested. , For others, it can lead to unusual snoring and/or fitful sleeps with awakenings during the night (as sometimes hypothyroidism can lead to concurrent sleep apnea). , If you are having bowel movements fewer than three times per week (over a period of at least three weeks), or significantly less than your normal, consult your physician.
This may or may not be related to hypothyroidism; either way, it is something that is beneficial to speak up about as your doctor can help you to manage this problem. , If you are finding it harder than normal to catch your breath walking or working out at the gym, it may be a sign of thyroid abnormalities. (If it is not hypothyroidism, unexplained shortness of breath is still a concern that should be evaluated by your physician.) , Signs that occur less frequently (but may still be indicative of hypothyroidism) include:
Mild swelling around the eyes Menstrual irregularities in women Mild high blood pressure (this will require a doctor's evaluation) Elevated cholesterol (this will require a doctor's evaluation) Memory lossCognitive dysfunction (memory, concentration) Hoarse voice Leg swelling Slow heart rate
About the Author
Jonathan Perez
Specializes in breaking down complex crafts topics into simple steps.
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