Subtle Signs That Your Thyroid is in Trouble
By Karen Heslop
The thyroid gland is a small, butterfly-shaped organ that is located at the base of the throat. It's involved in the regulation of many important operations in the body. When the thyroid gland doesn't function properly, it can release the hormones, triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4) in insufficient or excessive quantities. The first instance is known as hypothyroidism while the other is hyperthyroidism. A few signs of thyroid trouble are hard to miss but as you read further, you'll see that most of them can be quite subtle.
Dry Skin and Brittle Nails
Signs of a poorly functioning thyroid can be seen in your hair and nails. It's suspected that a slower metabolism can affect the body's ability to swear and produce the natural moisturizers that help to keep the skin from becoming dry and flaky.
Inability to Concentrate
Losing your ability to concentrate can also be a sign that your thyroid gland isn't working as it should. This is especially likely if the change is a recent one. Other issues that have been noted include increased apathy and poor memory.
Poor sleep and Chronic Fatigue
Having trouble falling asleep generally indicates an overactive thyroid gland while chronic fatigue can be a sign of an underactive one. Neither of these symptoms should be ignored when they have become a chronic issue.
Aversion to Temperature Changes
Issues with your thyroid can make it hard for your body to deal with temperature changes. Persons with hyperthyroidism have trouble dealing with heat and hypothyroidism can increase your sensitivity to cold.
Increased Hair Loss
Thyroids that aren't functioning well have also been linked to nutrient deficiencies in iron and Vitamin B. These deficiencies, in turn, can lead to hair loss from the entire scalp area.
Heart Palpitations
Hyperthyroidism usually floods the body with an excess of hormones that can make the heart race uncontrollably. This action results in constant heart palpitations.
Depression and Anxiety
For your mental health to be in balance, your hormones must also be balanced. Persons whose thyroids aren't functioning well have been reported to have increased incidents of depression and anxiety.
It's true that the symptoms on this list can be caused by different factors or illnesses. However, if you have noticed these changes in your health or behavior recently, it's worth talking to your physician. Many issues can be resolved quickly as soon as you start treatment.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Augusta, Ga.