Thyroid hormones control the body’s metabolism. The brain produces thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) which triggers the thyroid gland to produce two types of hormones – T4 and T3. In hypothyroidism, the body has inadequate levels of the thyroid hormones. This often leads to imbalances in relation to other hormones. Hyperthyroidism is a less common condition that exists when excess thyroid hormones are present. Because every cell of the body is affected by thyroid hormones, symptoms of imbalances are often varied and affect multiple body systems.
Symptoms of low thyroid function
- Brittle hair and nails
- Cold temperature intolerance
- Cold hands and feet
- Constipation
- Decreased sweating
- Depression
- Dry skin
- Fatigue
- Inability to lose weight
- Low libido
- Menstrual irregularities
- Shortness of breath
- Sluggishness
- Weight gain
- Symptoms of high thyroid function
- Anxiety
- Diarrhea
- Eye/vision changes
- Fatigue
- Hair loss
- Insomnia
- Palpitations
- Rapid heart beat
- Sweating
- Weakness
- Weight loss