Recognizing Signs of Thyroid Issues and Knowing When to Take Action

Your thyroid is a small gland in your neck that makes hormones. These hormones help control many systems in your body. Thyroid problems can be as simple as an enlarged gland that doesn’t need treatment, or as serious as thyroid cancer. The most common thyroid problems are hyperthyroidism (too much hormone) and hypothyroidism (too little hormone). Many symptoms of these conditions look like other health problems, which can make them harder for doctors to spot. These symptoms may be signs of thyroid issues.

Sudden Changes in Weight

If your weight suddenly goes up or down without a reason, your thyroid could be the cause. Gaining weight even though you're eating healthy and staying active, or losing weight without trying, are possible signs of thyroid issues. Talk to your doctor if you notice unusual weight gain or weight loss.

Feeling Too Hot or Too Cold

People with hypothyroidism (an underactive thyroid) often feel too cold, even in normal weather. People with hyperthyroidism (an overactive thyroid) may sweat a lot and feel too hot. Changes in how you handle temperature could be signs of thyroid issues, especially if they come on suddenly.

Feeling Tired or Having Trouble Sleeping

Being tired all the time – even after a full night’s sleep – can be another warning sign. Waking up during the night, feeling anxious before bed or needing naps during the day are also signs of thyroid issues. These symptoms may affect your daily energy and mood.

Changes in Mood: Depression or Anxiety

Thyroid problems can cause mood swings or mental health changes. If you’re taking medicine for depression or anxiety but it’s not working, your thyroid might be to blame. Frequent panic attacks, nervousness, or sudden mood changes could be signs of thyroid issues worth checking out.

Neck or Throat Problems

A swollen neck, trouble swallowing, trouble breathing or difficulty speaking may come from an enlarged thyroid. This could mean a more serious thyroid condition. Our recommendation to those who are experiencing neck and throat discomfort is to consult a physician as soon as possible.

Bathroom Changes

Thyroid problems can affect how often you go to the bathroom. An underactive thyroid may cause constipation, while an overactive thyroid may cause you to go more often. These changes, especially if new or unexplained, can be signs of thyroid issues.

This is not a full list of every symptom, but if you have one or more of these problems, Baptist Health recommends making an appointment with your doctor. They can check to see if what you're feeling could be thyroid related.