What Are Early Warning Signs of Thyroid Problems

Thyroid problems are more prevalent than many realize, affecting about 20 million Americans. It's crucial to identify the early warning signs of thyroid disorders, as timely recognition can significantly enhance quality of life and prevent potential complications.

Whether you're experiencing subtle shifts in energy levels, unexpected weight changes or mood fluctuations, being informed about these symptoms can empower you to seek the necessary medical attention. In this blog, we speak to Hamsa Aljumaili, M.D., an endocrinologist with INTEGRIS Health Medical Group Endocrinology, to learn more. 

What causes thyroid problems?

What to know: The thyroid gland is a small, butterfly-shaped organ located at the base of the neck that helps regulate metabolism. Thyroid disorders are multifaceted, with autoimmune diseases, iodine deficiency, genetic predispositions, environmental factors and pituitary function all playing critical roles. 

The thyroid plays a key role in regulating the body's metabolism, which is the process through which your body converts food into energy. 

• This regulation is primarily accomplished through the production of two essential hormones: thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3).
• These hormones impact several bodily functions, from heart rate and energy levels to body temperature and even how quickly you burn calories.
• When the brain detects low levels of thyroid hormones, it produces thyrotropin-releasing hormone (TRH), which signals the pituitary gland to release thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH).
• TSH then travels through the bloodstream to the thyroid, instructing it to produce more T4 and T3.

Any imbalance in this system, whether due to overproduction or underproduction of hormones, can lead to various health issues.

• The two most common thyroid disorders are hypothyroidism (insufficient thyroid hormone production) and hyperthyroidism (excessive thyroid hormone production), each with distinct symptoms and health impacts.

Autoimmune diseases are a primary cause of thyroid problems, with Hashimoto's thyroiditis and Graves' disease as the most common.

• Hashimoto's thyroiditis mistakenly targets and damages the thyroid gland, leading to reduced hormone production, known as hypothyroidism. 
• Graves' disease involves the immune system producing antibodies that stimulate the thyroid to produce excessive hormones, causing hyperthyroidism. 

Iodine deficiency can hinder the thyroid's ability to produce thyroid hormones, resulting in hypothyroidism. 

• This is because iodine is a key component of thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3).

Genetic factors significantly contribute to thyroid issues.

• Genetic predisposition can affect the likelihood of autoimmune diseases such as Hashimoto's thyroiditis and Graves' disease, as well as other thyroid dysfunctions.

Exposure to environmental factors can create thyroid abnormalities. 

• Radiation exposure, particularly during childhood, is a known risk factor for thyroid issues, including thyroid cancer. 
• Chemicals found in industrial pollutants and pesticides can disrupt endocrine function and potentially lead to thyroid problems. 

Pituitary gland dysfunction can disrupt the signaling needed to produce thyroid hormones, leading to imbalances in thyroid hormone levels. 

• For instance, a pituitary tumor or damage to the gland can result in insufficient TSH production, causing hypothyroidism.

Thyroid issues signs and symptoms

Why it matters: Recognizing the early signs of thyroid issues is crucial for timely diagnosis and effective management. The symptoms can vary significantly depending on whether the thyroid is underactive (hypothyroidism) or overactive (hyperthyroidism).

An underactive thyroid typically shows up as persistent fatigue, weight gain, cold intolerance and depression. 

• These symptoms arise from a reduced metabolic rate, where the body's energy production is insufficient, leading to sluggishness and an inability to effectively regulate body temperature and mood.

An overactive thyroid typically produces unexplained weight loss, a rapid heartbeat, heat intolerance and nervousness. 

• These occur due to an accelerated metabolism, which causes the body to burn energy too quickly, often resulting in an increased heart rate and heightened sensitivity to heat, alongside feelings of anxiety.

Early signs of an underactive thyroid

Persistent tiredness and lack of energy can show up even with adequate sleep.

• The body’s reduced ability to produce energy efficiently can lead to constant exhaustion.

Unexplained weight gain can occur due to a slower metabolism, causing the body to burn fewer calories. 

• This weight gain occurs despite maintaining or even reducing caloric intake.

Increased sensitivity may be present during cold temperatures.

• Low thyroid hormone levels impair the body’s ability to generate heat.

The skin may become rough, flaky and itchy.

• Reduced sweating and slower skin cell turnover contribute to dry skin.

Constipation can develop as the body’s metabolic rate decreases.

• Slowed digestive processes can lead to infrequent bowel movements and discomfort.

Depression, feelings of sadness or mental fog can occur.

• Some people may experience low mood and difficulties in concentration and memory.

Muscle weakness and fatigue can make physical tasks challenging and may be accompanied by stiffness.

• The fatigue typically occurs in the arms and legs.

Joint pain can result from reduced thyroid hormone activity affecting the maintenance of connective tissues.

• Stiffness, swelling or soreness are the most common symptoms.

Early signs of an overactive thyroid

Unexplained weight loss can occur due to an accelerated metabolism that burns calories more rapidly than usual.

• Weight loss happens despite maintaining or increasing food intake.

Rapid heartbeat (tachycardia) occurs as the body is overstimulated by excess thyroid hormones.

• The heart rate exceeds 100 beats per minute.

Excessive warmth or sweat can be present due to the increased metabolic rate causing the body to generate more heat.

• The warmth and sweat even develops in cooler environments. 

Anxiety can occur due to overstimulation of the nervous system.

• Common symptoms include nervousness, worry or irritability.

Increased appetite may develop as the body demands more energy to fuel metabolism.

• Food consumption occurs as hunger increases.

Tremors can be present due to an overactive nervous system.

• Fine shaking or trembling of the hands and fingers is common.

Difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep can occur.

• Many factors drive sleep difficulties, ranging from anxiety via an overactive mind or physical discomforts like palpitations and sweating.

What to do if you have thyroid problems

The bottom line: If you experience signs and symptoms of thyroid problems, it's crucial to take proactive steps to ensure proper diagnosis and treatment. Start by scheduling an appointment with a health care provider who can evaluate your symptoms and recommend appropriate tests. 

Before seeing a doctor, keep a symptom diary to note any changes in weight, energy levels, mood or other symptoms.

• During your visit, be sure to discuss family history as thyroid disorders can be hereditary. 
• Your doctor can order a thyroid test if you’re at risk or present any of the symptoms mentioned above.

A thyroid function test is essential to measure hormone levels and confirm any thyroid disorder. 

• This blood test measures levels of thyroid stimulating hormone, triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4).
• The range for TSH is between 0.4 and 4.0 mIU/L.
• The range for T4 is between 5.0 to 12.0 µg/dL.
• The range for T3 is between 100 and 200 ng/dL. 

Treatment options for thyroid disorders vary based on the condition. 

• Hormone replacement therapy involves taking synthetic thyroid hormones, such as levothyroxine, to compensate for the deficiency of natural hormones related to hypothyroidism.
• Antithyroid medications, such as methimazole and propylthiouracil, reduce thyroid hormone production to treat hyperthyroidism.
• Radioactive iodine therapy gradually destroys overactive thyroid cells, reducing hormone production and shrinking the gland over time as a way to treat hyperthyroidism.
• A thyroidectomy is a surgery to remove part or all the thyroid gland to eliminate the source of excessive hormone production.
• Dietary adjustments involve eating selenium-rich foods and avoiding excessive iodine intake to support thyroid health.

Next steps: If you notice any early signs of thyroid issues, reach out to your doctor or an endocrinologist. Early detection is key to effective diagnosis and treatment, helping you avoid complications and enhance your quality of life.

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