How to Identify Symptoms of Thyroid Problems

The thyroid is a ductless gland that excretes hormones directly into the blood.  Hormone production is regulated by the pituitary gland.  When thyroid hormones are produced in excessive or inadequate amounts certain symptoms will occur.  Only a doctor can definitively diagnosis and treat thyroid issues. 

General Symptoms of Thyroid Disorders

The extremes of symptoms vary depending on the type of thyroid disorder.  For example, an overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism) will produce an excessive amount of hormones, sometimes characterized by weight loss.  An underactive thyroid will not produce enough hormones, sometimes resulting in weight gain.

• Diarrhea or constipation


• Insomnia


• Goiter


• Intolerance for heat or cold


• Rapid or slowed heart rate


• Tremors


• Muscle weakness or pain


• Joint pain


• Unusual menstrual cycle


• Swelling in the face


• Thickening or red skin


• Thirst


• Unexplained weight loss or weight gain


• Sensitivity in the tissues of the neck


• Swelling in the neck

Specific Thyroid Disorders and Symptoms

Graves' disease is an autoimmune disorder that results in hyperthyroidism.  Additional symptoms of Graves' disease include the following.

• Anxiousness and nervousness


• Fatigue


• Concentration issues


• Protrusion or bulging of the eyeballs


• Double vision


• Excessive tearing


• Irritation of the eyes


• Palpitations of the heart


• Arrhythmia


• Shortness of breath


• Abnormal sweating


• Thickening of the skin on the shins and tops of feet

Hashimoto's disease exhibits the same symptoms as hypothyroidism.

• Facial swelling


• Swollen joints, especially in the hands and feet


• Stiff joints


• Mood swings and depression


• Hoarse voice


• Dry skin


• High cholesterol levels

An individual experiencing any life threatening symptoms of thyroid disease must seek immediate medical attention.

• Severe confusion


• Loss of consciousness


• Very low blood pressure


• Very slow heart rate


• Dehydration


• Breathing difficulties


• Acute vomiting and/or diarrhea


• Unexplained and acute headache


• Eye pain