Identifying hypothyroidism and its causes is a complicated matter. Many of the symptoms of hypothyroidism are vague and also correspond to other illnesses. Doctors often miss a thyroid problem because they rely only on a few traditional tests and miss other clues. The most sensitive way to detect this kind of problem is to listen to your body.
Here are some obvious signs of fatigue related to the functioning of the thyroid:
1 A lethargic state
Fatigue and lack of energy are typical signs of thyroid dysfunction. A link has also been established between this disease and depression. If you suffer from depression, make sure your doctor checks your thyroid hormone levels. It is essential to emphasize that fatigue and lack of energy should not always be blamed on thyroid dysfunction. Fatigue related to a thyroid problem begins to show when your energy level is depleted quickly, especially in comparison to your usual physical form or abilities. If your thyroid is low, it will be difficult for you to maintain normal energy levels. You will notice that you no longer have the same energy as usual.
2 Intense and permanent fatigue
You feel like you don’t have enough energy to exercise, and you don’t exercise regularly. You feel tired or heavy-headed, especially in the afternoon. Your head is a very accurate indicator of thyroid function. You fall asleep as soon as you sit down if you’re not busy.
3 Weight gain
Another sign is rapid weight gain or difficulty losing weight, despite an intensive exercise program and when you watch your diet.
4 Rough, scaly skin and/or dry hair
If your skin is constantly dry, and moisturizing creams and lotions don’t help, hypothyroidism could be the culprit.
5 Hair loss
Women, in particular, need to be concerned about their thyroid if they experience unexplained hair loss. Fortunately, if your hair loss is due to a malfunction of your thyroid, it will grow back quickly with proper treatment of your thyroid.
6 Sensitivity to cold
Being constantly cold is also a sign of a slowing thyroid. People with hypothyroidism find it difficult to warm up, even in a sauna, and do not sweat when doing moderate physical activity.
7 Low basal temperature
A low basal body temperature, less than 36.4°C on average, for at least three days, is also a telltale sign of hypothyroidism.
Any of these symptoms may suggest an underactive thyroid. The more of the above symptoms you have, the more likely you are to have hypothyroidism.
Hereditary factors of hypothyroidism
Also, if a member of your family has any of the following conditions or signs, your risk of developing thyroid problems is higher:
Goitre
Diabetes
Multiple sclerosis (MS)
Gray hair at an early age
Autoimmune diseases (such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, sarcoidosis, Sjögren’s syndrome)
High cholesterol levels
Being left-handed
Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis
High or low thyroid function
The more attentive you are to your own symptoms and risk factors, and the more complete the picture you present to your doctor, the more likely you are to get the right treatment.
