19 signs of thyroid problems (and what to do about them)

Your thyroid may be small, but it plays a big role in your health. This butterfly-shaped gland in your neck regulates metabolism, energy, digestion and even mood. When your thyroid is out of balance, you’ll feel the effects across your body in ways you might not expect.

From constant fatigue to sudden weight changes, here are 19 signs of thyroid problems to be aware of—and what to do if you suspect your thyroid might be off balance.

19 signs of thyroid problems

Thyroid problems can be divided into two main types: hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) and hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid). Each has distinct symptoms, though some may overlap.

While this breakdown can be a helpful guide in understanding how thyroid problems can impact your body, keep in mind that this is not a comprehensive list. It’s important to pay attention to your body and what is and isn’t normal for you. Don’t hesitate to talk to your doctor if something feels off, even if you’re not sure whether it’s related to your thyroid.

Symptoms of hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism, or low thyroid, happens when your thyroid doesn’t produce enough hormones to meet your body’s needs. This slows down metabolism, which can affect energy, weight, mood and organ function, leading to a variety of symptoms.

Hypothyroidism is a common condition, especially among women and older adults, affecting around 5% of adults in the US. Symptoms often develop gradually and can be vague, but early diagnosis and treatment can make a big difference in managing hypothyroidism and helping you feel your best.

Here are common symptoms of hypothyroidism and what they mean:

1. Fatigue or constant tiredness: This is a common symptom of hypothyroidism that occurs because your body’s metabolism slows, making everyday tasks feel exhausting.
2. Weight gain despite no change in diet: Reduced metabolic rate may lead to mild weight gain or difficulty losing weight.
3. Dry, coarse skin: Low thyroid hormone levels can decrease skin moisture and turnover, causing dryness.
4. Brittle hair or hair loss: With hypothyroidism, hair follicles slow down, causing thinning or breakage.
5. Sensitivity to cold: Slowed heat production can cause you to feel unusually cold.
6. Constipation: Reduced digestive motility can lead to irregular or infrequent bowel movements.
7. Depression, low mood or “brain fog:” Thyroid hormones influence brain function, and low levels can affect mood and cognition.
8. Slow heart rate: Reduced thyroid function can lower your pulse.
9. Puffy face or swollen eyelids: Fluid retention may lead to facial puffiness.
10. Swelling in hands, feet or legs: Low thyroid function can cause mild edema (swelling) in the extremities.

Hyperthyroidism symptoms

Hyperthyroidism, on the other hand, happens when your thyroid produces too much hormone, increasing metabolism and placing strain on multiple body systems. This can lead to symptoms like rapid heartbeat, weight loss, anxiety and more.

Hyperthyroidism is less common than hypothyroidism but still affects roughly 1-2% of adults in the US, most often women.

Recognizing hyperthyroidism symptoms early can help prevent complications, as there are treatment options that can make managing the condition much easier.

These are common signs of hyperthyroidism to watch for:

11. Rapid or irregular heartbeat: Excess thyroid hormone can cause palpitations, a fast pulse or atrial fibrillation.
12. Weight loss despite normal or increased appetite: High metabolism burns calories faster than usual, so you may notice weight loss despite consuming more food.
13. Feeling hot or sweating more than usual: Overactive thyroid increases body temperature and sweat production.
14. Tremors in your hands or fingers: Excess hormones can affect your nervous system, causing shaking or tremors.
15. Anxiety or irritability: Hormone imbalances can affect mood and stress response, leading to anxiety or irritability.
16. Difficulty sleeping: Elevated metabolism and anxiety can disrupt sleep.
17. Frequent bowel movements: Digestion speeds up, which can cause looser stools or more trips to the bathroom.
18. Muscle weakness: Faster digestion may lead to more frequent or looser stools.
19. Thinning hair or hair loss: Hair growth cycles speed up, leading to shedding more hair than normal.

If you notice several of these symptoms together, it may indicate an overactive thyroid.

What to do if you notice signs of thyroid problems

If you recognize several of these 19 signs of thyroid problems, the first step is to see your primary care provider. Because thyroid symptoms can mimic many other conditions, it’s important to get a medical evaluation.

Your doctor may order a blood test to check your thyroid hormone levels. Blood tests can help determine whether your thyroid is underactive, overactive or functioning normally.

Treatment depends on the type of thyroid problem:

• Hypothyroidism is usually managed with hormone replacement therapy to bring hormone levels back to normal, most commonly, levothyroxine.
• Hyperthyroidism may be managed with antithyroid medications, radioactive iodine or surgery.

With the right diagnosis and treatment plan, most people manage thyroid disease very successfully and feel significantly better. While thyroid conditions are commonly managed by primary care physicians, your doctor may refer you to an endocrinologist for more complex issues.

Signs of thyroid problems can be vague or easily attributed to other factors, but you know your body best. Don’t hesitate to talk to a doctor if something feels off.