Thyroid disorders can often go unnoticed for many years due to the symptoms being similar to other illnesses.
The thyroid is a small butterfly-shaped gland in the neck, just in front of the windpipe. It produces hormones that affect things such as your heart rate and body temperature.
Thyroid disorders are common and tend mainly to occur in women, although anybody can be affected. According to the British Thyroid Foundation, they are often described as 'invisible illnesses' as psychological symptoms can often go unnoticed.
Overactive thyroid is a hormonal condition that occurs when there is too much thyroid hormone in the body.
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This can cause unpleasant and potentially serious problems that may need treatment. In contrast, an underactive thyroid is where your thyroid gland doesn't produce enough hormones.
Here we take a look at some of the signs and symptoms the NHS lists for underactive thyroids and overactive thyroids. If you are concerned about your thyroid or any of the symptoms always seek advice from your GP.
An overactive thyroid can cause a wide range of symptoms, including:
- nervousness, anxiety and irritability
- mood swings
- difficulty sleeping
- persistent tiredness and weakness
- sensitivity to heat
- swelling in your neck from an enlarged thyroid gland (goitre)
- an irregular and/or unusually fast heart rate (palpitations)
- twitching or trembling
- weight loss
Underactive thyroids
Symptoms of an underactive thyroid are often similar to those of other conditions, and they usually develop slowly, so you may not notice them for years.
Common symptoms include:
- tiredness
- being sensitive to cold
- weight gain
- constipation
- depression
- slow movements and thoughts
- muscle aches and weakness
- muscle cramps
- dry and scaly skin
- brittle hair and nails
- loss of libido (sex drive)
- pain, numbness and a tingling sensation in the hand and fingers (carpal tunnel syndrome)
- irregular periods or heavy periods
Elderly people with an underactive thyroid may develop memory problems and depression, while children may experience slower growth and development. Teenagers may start puberty earlier than normal.
For more information on thyroid issues visit the NHS website.
