Warning Signs of a Thyroid Problem

If you’re being plagued by symptoms that don’t seem to have a clear cause, you should have your thyroid checked. Often overlooked, this tiny butterfly-shaped gland at the base of your throat could be the source of your problems.

The providers at ENT of New Orleans, with four locations in the Greater New Orleans area, are experts in thyroid health. We can find out if your thyroid is over- or under-active, and prescribe the correct form of treatment to restore balance.

Thyroid problems are incredibly common 

According to the American Thyroid Association, more than one in ten Americans are likely to experience thyroid problems at some point in their lifetimes. Already, it’s estimated that around 20 million people in the US have thyroid issues, but only around 40% of them have received the right diagnosis. Simply asking for a thyroid test could yield answers to questions about symptoms you’ve had for years.

Warning signs of a thyroid problem

Your thyroid is responsible for producing regulatory hormones that manage things like growth, metabolism, and energy. Having too much or too little of these hormones can cause chronic symptoms. Hypothyroidism means your thyroid is underactive. Hyperthyroidism means your thyroid is overactive.

Symptoms of hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism has symptoms that can mimic many common health conditions, and sadly, these issues may be dismissed by uninformed doctors because their patient is overweight or obese. If you’ve been told all your problems are weight-related, it’s worth asking for a second opinion. These symptoms could be signs of hypothyroidism:  

• A goiter (enlarged thyroid gland, causing a visible lump in your throat)  
• Weight gain, which can be accompanied by a puffy face
• Insomnia (trouble sleeping) and/or fatigue
• Slowed heart rate
• Feeling cold all the time
• Dry skin
• Thinning hair
• Hoarseness
• Menstruation issues (irregularity, heavy bleeding)
• Constipation
• High blood cholesterol
• Joint stiffness and pain
• Muscle weakness

Hypothyroidism usually requires thyroid hormone replacement therapy.

Symptoms of hyperthyroidism

Hyperthyroidism can also look just like many other health problems, leading to the all-too-common problem of misdiagnosis. If you have a combination of any of the following symptoms, ask to have your thyroid checked.

• Increased appetite
• Sudden weight loss  
• Decreased menstruation
• Dry, brittle hair
• Thinning, fragile skin
• A sudden increase in bowel movements
• Feeling hot and/or sweaty all the time
• Feeling nervous, anxious, or irritable
• Hand tremors or other muscle weakness
• Fatigue and sleep issues
• Base of your neck swelling

Hyperthyroidism treatment may be medication or radioactive iodine to slow thyroid hormone production, or your doctor may recommend thyroid surgery.

Think you might have a thyroid problem? Schedule a consultation by calling the location closest to you, or request an appointment online.