This article outlines the top five things to watch for with thyroid issues. The thyroid is a crucial part of overall well-being, so our OB/GYNs hope this information will help you maintain optimal health.
What Exactly Does a Thyroid Do?
The thyroid gland plays a crucial role in regulating various bodily functions, including metabolism, temperature control, and hormone production. Two hormones, T-3 and T-4, are produced by the thyroid that affect things like how fast your heart beats, how deeply you breathe, and your body weight. These hormones also help control cholesterol levels and women’s menstrual cycles.
Unexplained Weight Changes
One of the primary signs of a thyroid disorder is unexplained weight changes. An underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism) can lead to weight gain, while an overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism) can result in weight loss. If you notice significant fluctuations in your weight without any changes in diet or exercise, it is essential to consult with a healthcare professional at Cherokee Women’s Health for a thorough evaluation of your thyroid function.
Fatigue and Mood Swings
Feeling excessively tired or experiencing unexplained mood swings could be indicative of an underlying thyroid issue. Hypothyroidism often manifests as persistent fatigue, lethargy, and a general sense of low energy. On the other hand, hyperthyroidism can lead to restlessness, anxiety, irritability, and mood swings. If you find yourself battling unexplained exhaustion or emotional instability, it may be worth discussing these symptoms with our experienced OB/GYN team.
Changes in Menstrual Patterns
Thyroid dysfunction can disrupt the delicate hormonal balance in women, affecting their menstrual cycles. Irregular periods, lighter or heavier bleeding than usual, or increased cramping could be potential red flags for an underlying thyroid problem. It is crucial to monitor your menstrual patterns and promptly seek guidance from our experts at Cherokee Women’s Health if you observe any unexplained changes.
Hair Loss and Skin Changes
The health of your hair and skin can also provide clues about your thyroid function. Excessive hair loss, dry and brittle hair, thinning eyebrows, and dry, itchy skin are commonly associated with hypothyroidism. Conversely, hyperthyroidism may cause hair thinning, increased hair shedding, and skin issues such as excessive sweating or sensitivity.
Cold Sensitivity and Temperature Regulation
The thyroid gland helps regulate body temperature, and thyroid dysfunction can disrupt this balance. People with hypothyroidism often report feeling unusually sensitive to cold temperatures, experiencing cold hands and feet, and having an overall intolerance to cold. Conversely, individuals with hyperthyroidism may have an increased sensitivity to heat and feel excessively warm, even in normal temperature environments.
Listen to Your Body
By recognizing the top five things to look out for regarding thyroid issues–unexplained weight changes, fatigue and mood swings, changes in menstrual patterns, hair loss and skin changes, and cold sensitivity and temperature regulation–women can proactively monitor their well-being. Remember, if you notice any of these symptoms, seeking guidance from our experienced OB/GYN team will help you obtain an accurate diagnosis and develop an appropriate treatment plan to ensure optimal thyroid health.
Make an Appointment
schedule an appointment online at either our Woodstock or Canton location or call us at 770.720.7733. Our board-certified OB/GYNs are here to help you regain control over your health.
