A gland shaped like a butterfly that sits on the lower front of your neck, the thyroid is responsible for secreting several hormones that influence growth, metabolism, development, and body temperature. During the early stages of life, adequate thyroid hormones are crucial for brain development, and having a thyroid that doesn’t produce enough of certain hormones is called hypothyroidism. If you’re suffering from unexplained weight gain, you might want to ask your doctor about hypothyroidism and hypothyroidism treatment.
Fatigue and weight gain are only two symptoms of hypothyroidism. This condition can be hard to detect in its early stages because symptoms vary depending on the severity of the hormone deficiency. On top of this, hypothyroidism usually takes years to develop, and by the time you notice, it may be too late.
Symptoms Of Hypothyroidism
Dry skin: Any change in the skin might be due to slowed down metabolism, which reduces sweating.
Puffy face: Reduced kidney function due to hypothyroidism can cause you to retain water, resulting in a puffy face.
Slowed heart rate: Low thyroid hormone levels result in a slowed heart rate because it makes the arteries less elastic. This leads to a rise in blood pressure so that blood can circulate around the body properly.
Depression: Not enough thyroid hormones in your nervous system can cause weight gain, fatigue, and a lack of energy.
Hoarseness: Thyroid hormonal receptors have also been found in the larynx or voice box.
Elevated cholesterol levels: This should be treated immediately as it can lead to heart disease and stroke.
Stiffness in your joints: This can lead to other health problems like arthritis.
Irregular menstrual cycles: This can cause fertility problems.
Fatigue: Fatigue is feeling overtired with a strong desire to sleep. This can be treated with vitamins to boost energy.
Impaired memory: Not getting enough hormones from your thyroid can lead to mental health issues.
Enlarged thyroid gland: This can lead to discomfort and voice changes.
Not all symptoms are always present. The best way to know if you have hypothyroidism is to consult your family physician.
7 Reasons You Should Check Your Thyroid If Dealing With Unexplained Weight Gain
1. You Are At Risk Of Developing Goiter
Goiter is a condition where your thyroid gland becomes noticeably larger as a result of constant stimulation, causing it to release more hormones than usual. Although it isn’t painful, a large goiter can affect your appearance and interfere with vital body functions like swallowing and breathing. Some symptoms of having goiter are having a cough and gaining weight.
2. Can Lead To Heart Problems
Having thyroid problems can also be associated with an increased risk of heart disease or heart failure. People with an underactive thyroid gland can have high levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, which is linked to heart problems. Thyroid hormone levels have a direct link with the speed of your heartbeat, low blood pressure, and bad cholesterol levels. Because of this, having hypothyroidism can worsen any already existing heart problems.
3. Can Cause Mental Health Issues
The brain has the highest amount of thyroid hormone detectors than any other organ. This is why having an underactive thyroid gland is also known to cause slowed mental functions and affect mental health. Depression has been directly linked to hypothyroidism and can only get worse over time if left untreated.
4. Can Cause Damage To Peripheral Nerves
Uncontrolled hypothyroidism is known to cause damage to and kill your peripheral nerves. Peripheral nerves carry information from your brain and spinal cord to the rest of your body. Some symptoms for peripheral neuropathy are numbness and tingling of the hands and feet, loss of sensation in the arms, and a burning sensation on your feet or hands. One example of peripheral neuropathy is carpal tunnel syndrome.
5. Can Cause Myxedema
Myxedema is a rare life-threatening condition that develops from long-term undiagnosed hypothyroidism. Some symptoms of Myxedema are drowsiness followed by lethargy, loss of consciousness, shock, and decreased breathing. Myxedema can lead to a coma if left untreated. If you have any of these signs or symptoms, please visit an emergency room as soon as possible.
6. Can Lead To Infertility
One of the symptoms of having low levels of thyroid hormones is having an irregular menstrual cycle. Hypothyroidism can interfere with ovulation, resulting in infertility issues. Also, having hypothyroidism can lead to a complicated pregnancy.
7. Can Result In Birth Defects
Women with untreated thyroid disease have a higher chance of delivering a baby with birth defects than a healthy mother. These children are more at risk of serious mental and physical developmental problems. This is also true with infants born with hypothyroidism. However, if treated properly, the child should develop normally.
Conclusion
Although gaining weight can be normal, it's always best to visit your physician if you’re experiencing any of the symptoms for hypothyroidism as it can lead to a series of health problems. When diagnosed and treated on time, people with hypothyroidism can go on to live a normal life.
