The thyroid gland, which sits in front of the trachea or windpipe in the throat, is designed to secret thyroid hormones. Thyroid hormones are involved in regulating just about every bodily function, including heart rate, circulation, body temperature and fluid balance.
Many symptoms of thyroid disease are similar to those of ageing, so diagnosis can be tricky. That said, if you are experiencing several of the following, please see your doctor.
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If you wake up feeling tired despite having clocked up eight or more hours of sleep, or you regularly feel you need a daytime nap, your thyroid could be to blame.
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Difficulty losing weight even when following a strict diet can be a sign of a thyroid problem. The same goes for unexplained weight loss or weight gain.
Hypothyroidism is often associated with depression, while hyperthyroidism is commonly linked to anxiety and panic attacks.
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High cholesterol, particularly if it can’t be lowered with exercise, medication or diet, may be a sign of thyroid problems.
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If your direct family members have had thyroid problems, your chances of having the same are increased.
Heavier, more frequent and more painful periods are often linked to hypothyroidism. Shorter, lighter or irregular periods can be linked to hyperthyroidism.
Long-term constipation can be a sign of hypothyroidism. Diarrhoea can mean hyperthyroidism.
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If you are losing hair and your skin is dry and coarse, it may be a thyroid issue.
If your neck feels tight or sore, you may be developing goitre, a visibly enlarged thyroid gland.
Muscle aches and pains, most notably carpal tunnel syndrome, have been lined to thyroid problems.
Text: Bauer/ Good Health/ Additional Reporting: Shenielle Aloysis