Many people are familiar with the thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) test, which is the most common lab test for thyroid function. However, even though TSH testing can give you essential information about the health of your thyroid, it doesn’t always provide an accurate assessment. In fact, some people with “normal” TSH lab values present with hypo or hyperthyroid symptoms and require treatment. So what does this mean? Having too little thyroid hormone (hypothyroidism) or too much (hyperthyroidism) impacts your health in many ways. Below we will discuss some of the most common symptoms associated with both hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism.
Symptoms of Hypothyroidism
The symptoms of hypothyroidism vary from person to person but they include persistent fatigue, weight gain, depression, feeling cold, increased cholesterol levels, muscle cramps and joint pain, constipation, menstrual irregularities, dry hair and skin, brittle nails and fluid retention. Depending on how long the condition has been left untreated and its severity can determine a patient's symptoms. People who have mild cases of hypothyroidism may not experience any symptoms at all while those with severe cases may feel completely debilitated due to their lack of energy and other effects mentioned previously.
Symptoms of Hyperthyroidism
Hyperthyroidism is less common than hypothyroidism but still very serious if left untreated. Common symptoms associated with hyperthyroidism include unintentional weight loss (despite having a normal appetite), insomnia, abnormal heart rhythms (such as palpitations), nervousness/anxiety, sweating more than usual or sensitivity to heat. Women may also experience menstrual irregularities such as lighter periods than usual or even ceasing menstruation altogether due to their overactive thyroids producing extra hormones which interfere with the menstrual cycle. Other possible signs of hyperthyroidism include tremor in hands or fingers that appears when performing simple tasks such as writing or taking hold of objects like cups/glasses etc., a rapid pulse rate in resting state (over 90 beats per minute in adults), protruding eyes (exophthalmos) or bulging eyes or difficulty closing eyelids completely while sleeping etc. It’s important to note that some people experiencing these issues may not have an overactive thyroid so it’s essential that they get tested by their doctor to rule out other conditions first before making any decisions regarding treatment options for hyperthyroidism.[1]
Having too little thyroid hormone (hypothyrodim) or too much (hyperthyrodim) can be detrimental for our physical health if left untreated for too long. By understanding the common symptoms associated with both hypo- and hyperthryoidim we can ensure we get tested early so we can begin treatment sooner rather than later if necessary! If you are experiencing any mix of these symptoms then please speak to your healthcare provider about getting tested for possible hypo- or hyperthryoidim so you can get back on track towards optimal health! [1] https://www.verywellhealth.com/what-is-hyperthyoridims-3233446#symptoms-of-hyperthryoidims