10 Symptoms Of Hypothyroidism You Should Know

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Of late, there has been an increase in the number of people complaining of or diagnosed with hypothyroidism.

The thyroid gland is located at the base of our neck having a small butterfly-like shape. It is one of the crucial organs that is responsible for producing hormones in the body.

Also read:What Causes Hypothyroidism in Teens

These hormones play an important role and therefore affect the body's metabolism if their production is either high or low.

In case of hypothyroidism, the thyroid gland fails to produce enough hormones that are required for bringing about a balance in the body.

The most common cause of hypothyroidism is lack of adequate iodine in the diet.

This apart, other causes of hypothyroidism include autoimmune disease, surgical removal of even a part of the thyroid gland, radiation treatment, damage to the pituitary gland, etc.

Of all, hypothyroidism most commonly affects the middle-aged and older women.

Also read: 12 Foods To Avoid In Hypothyroidism

It is essential to know the signs and symptoms of hypothyroidism at the correct time.

If not checked on time, it might lead to other severe health issues like goitre, heart problems, neurological problems, infertility and birth defects.

Have a look at these 10 symptoms of hypothyroidism:

1. Fatigue And Weakness:

Most common symptoms of hypothyroidism include fatigue and weakness. People with this disorder tend to feel tired and weak even after a slight physical activity or without it. Even after sleeping, they would not have the energy.

2. Weight Gain Or Increased Difficulty In Losing Weight:

For those with hypothyroidism, they have a low basal metabolic rate, which is why, they tend to gain weight even if they are consuming low-calorie food. Further, it also becomes difficult to lose weight.

3.Abnormal Menstrual Cycles:

Due to hypothyroidism, the thyroid gland would not be able to produce adequate hormones and this results in abnormal and irregularity of menstrual cycle.

4. Coarse, Dry Hair And Hair Loss:

Like any other body parts, even the hair follicles follow a natural cycle of growth. When there are certain hormonal changes in the body, the cycle gets disturbed, this results in hair fall and hair dryness.

5. Muscle Cramps And Frequent Muscle Aches:

When the thyroid gland is not able to produce enough hormones necessary for the functioning of the body, even the muscles get affected. They tend to become weak and the muscles get enlarged; and hence, one gets muscle cramps frequently that is associated with weakness, enlarged muscles and painful muscle spasms.

6. Constipation:

The hormonal changes due to hypothyroidism lead to a disturbance in the digestive tract. There would be a problem in digesting the food, and this in turn causes constipation.

7. Depression:

There are certain hormones produced by the thyroid glands that have an effect on depression. Low production of thyroid hormones, in case of hypothyroidism, makes one feel tired and depressed.

8. Irritability:

Not having enough production of hormones for a proper functioning of the body gives rise to various emotions. One of the frequently experienced emotion is irritation.

9. Memory Loss:

In case of hypothyroidism, the thyroid glands are not able to produce enough hormones that are needed for the body. Hence, the hormone deficiency slows down everything, and this also affects your memory.

10. Dry, Rough Pale Skin:

For those having hypothyroidism, they will be experiencing a decrease in the level of sweating. This, in turn, will lead to their skin becoming dry, rough and also pale at times.