You might have heard of people blaming different health problems on the gland. Too fat, even while on a diet? Weight gain? The gland. Constant tiredness? Swelling? Unexpected weight loss? The gland.
Most people refer to it as the gland, but what they mean is the thyroid gland. The thyroid gland has an extremely important role in the body and can control numerous processes.
More conditions can target the thyroid hormone, such as an underactive thyroid or perhaps an overactive thyroid.
The good news is that many thyroid dysfunction problems can be identified early. But then, how do you know you have a problem? What are early warning signs of thyroid problems? Is it readily noticeble?
Let’s find out!
What Are Early Warning Signs of Thyroid Problems: What is a Thyroid?
A thyroid is practically a butterfly-shaped gland. It is part of the endocrine group and is located in the neck. There are two thyroid hormones, and they are both sent into the bloodstream. Both triiodothyronine and thyroxine are mandatory for good functionality of your cells.
Too little or too much thyroid hormone can lead to common thyroid disease, which affects thyroid function and embraces multiple forms. Such problems are more common in women, yet they can affect anyone, including old males or even babies.
It may seem difficult to believe, but about 5% of all people have irregular thyroid hormone levels, different types of thyroid disorders, or unusual thyroid hormone production. In some cases, thyroid health problems are temporary. Other times, they can be permanent.
Controlled by the pituitary gland, the thyroid gland is located in the frontal part of the neck, just under Adam’s apple. There are two lobes in its composition. Each of them is the size of a small plum. They are joined together by a tiny bridge.
The Function of the Thyroid in our Bodies
The gland has one role, and that is to produce thyroid hormones. Any thyroid disorder you may end up suffering from is because of irregular hormonal production. Each affection has different results in the human body.
The thyroxine is referred to as T4, while the triiodothyronine is known as T3. The T4 does not have a significant role. Once released into the body, it is converted into T3. On the other hand, T3 is the active one and affects the natural functionality of cells and tissues.
Both hormones have atoms of the trace mineral iodine.
What does it mean? The metabolism of cells is regulated, so cells work at normal speeds. When there is too much T3, cells work much faster than normal. This is an overactive thyroid. When it is too little, you have hypothyroidism.
Issues related to the thyroid-stimulating hormone can cause a plethora of effects, such as thyroid nodules, an autoimmune disease, weight loss, body temperature, heart palpitations, or perhaps high blood pressure, among many others. This is why you need to keep thyroid issues under control.
Thyroid cancer is also quite common among thyroid conditions.
7 Early Warning Signs of Thyroid Problems
Some signs are specific to different thyroid affections. For example, some signs may affect the body’s metabolism or can cause hair loss, immune system problems, oily skin, weight changes, or muscle weakness. Some other early signs of thyroid problems are more general, though.
1. Fatigue
This is more common in those with subclinical hypothyroidism and tends to become chronic. Tiredness is different and can be handled with a good night’s sleep.
2. Weight gain
This is another sign that thyroid levels are wrong because the gland also regulates metabolism. If you have not made any major dietary changes, the issue might be in the thyroid.
3. Weight loss
This is just as common. Based on how many hormones the thyroid produces, weight loss could be insignificant or quite problematic. A hyperthyroidism treatment might become an emergency.
4. A slowed heart rate
It is not to be overlooked either and will affect your cardiac health. Low production of hormones can seriously worsen hypothyroidism and may lead to thyroid surgery.
5. Increased heart rate
On the same note, an increased heart rate is just as bad and more common in those with more than enough hormones, hyperthyroidism.
6. Sensitivity to heat
Pay special attention if you suffer from sensitivity to heat too, which is usually caused by hyperthyroidism. Sometimes, the sign comes with weight loss. Hot flashes are just as common.
7. Sensitivity to cold
As for sensitivity to cold, you will usually experience it in your feet and hands, and it may lead to peripheral neuropathy. Thyroid hormone replacement might be needed in more severe cases.
Causes of Thyroid Problems
The common symptoms are generic to a particular thyroid problem. There are two major conditions affecting the gland, hypothyroidism, and hyperthyroidism. They are usually caused by different other conditions.
Some of the conditions that can lead to hypothyroidism include Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, thyroiditis, iodine deficiency, postpartum thyroiditis, and a malfunctioning thyroid gland. There are times when the thyroid gland fails to work accordingly from birth.
In most cases, thyroid problems have other causes, though.
As for hyperthyroidism, some of the main diseases causing it to include Graves’ disease, nodules, thyroiditis, or too much iodine.
Apart from a problematic thyroid from birth, other natural causes include a pituitary disorder or even the lack of the thyroid gland.
If signs like dry skin or occasional menstrual disturbances can be easily kept under control, some others require professional medical attention, such as heart disease or blood pressure. Prescription medications or radiation therapy might be given after conclusive blood tests or perhaps thyroid peroxidase tests.
Hypothyroidism seems to be a bit more dangerous than hyperthyroidism. For example, it causes more damage in babies. Also, if left untreated, it can lead to a myxedema coma. According to the American Thyroid Association, the condition is rare, but it can be fatal if not treated immediately.
Treatment & Prevention of Thyroid Problems
As you can see, unlike other medical affections related to the hormones produced in the body, thyroid disease is different and usually caused by other affections. While it does happen, it is less likely to be affected by your diet or perhaps an unhealthy lifestyle, yet such things may contribute to it.
The common warning signs are quite general too. If anything seems suspicious, there are tests you can take to convince yourself. Should you get diagnosed with such problems, the good news is there are more treatments out there.
Medications
Functional medicine and drugs are often given if the disease is in moderate or severe cases or when it is caused by other affections. The drugs are given for those specific affections, such as Hashimoto’s disease. Drugs affect how hormones play and may also have side effects on your body.
Natural Remedies
A healthy lifestyle is a must to boost the natural healing process of the body. Get rid of junk food from your diet and cook everything you eat.
Exercise daily and opt for yoga sessions a few times a week.
When you eat, it makes no difference how hungry you are. If you are a fast eater, force yourself to take your time and chew a lot before swallowing. Cook everything, but especially greens. Some cruciferous vegetables can alter the energy levels and the cell energy metabolism by affecting the thyroid gland.
When it comes to foods and ingredients to include in your diet, here is a helpful list:
- Coconut oil
- Apple cider vinegar
- Ginger
- Almonds
- Dairy products
- Beans
- Seaweed
Supplements and Programs
Certain vitamins, such as B and D, are mandatory for good functionality of your thyroid. Losing weight, experiencing body twitches, or fragile hair follicles should not be treated directly. Instead, aim to focus on the actual cause.
Some supplements and programs go in more directions. They normally adopt a natural approach and cannot cause any side effects, but you also require something that can help with your thyroid problem. Here are a few front runners.
1. Stimulate Natural Thyroid Hormone Production: Thyroid Support
Often known as VitaPost too, Thyroid Support is currently the best-selling thyroid product on the market. The formula boosts a bunch of vitamins, with a primary focus on Vitamin B12. You can also benefit from different minerals and herbs used in the composition, including kelp and bladderwrack.
The supplement is formulated to enhance focus and energy, but also to stimulate natural thyroid hormone production. The formula is also under FDA-approved research, not to mention the third-party certifications for quality and dosage. You can leave your thyroid gland in good hands.
Shop Thyroid Support at the Official Website.
Full Article: Vitapost Thyroid Support Reviews: Does it Really Work?
2. Achieve Optimal Levels of Immunity: Thyroid Factor
The Thyroid Factor is not a supplement, but a comprehensive program. It is written by thyroid expert Dawn Sylvester and is specifically aimed at women facing such problems. The program adopts a natural approach towards affection and will not cause any adverse reactions to the recommendations.
There are more natural solutions in the digital guide. For maximum effects, sufferers should include all of them in this lifestyle-changing experience. It includes dietary advice, too, as well as foods you should implement in your diet for better results in the long run. Smoothie recipes are also mentioned.
Shop Thyroid Factor at the Official Website.
Full Article: The Thyroid Factor Reviews 2024: Does it Work?
3. Natural Approach to Removing Hypothyroidism: Hypothyroidism Solution
The Hypothyroidism Solution has been created for those without any severe symptoms and especially those who identified thyroid problems during routine consultations. The digital program includes a wealth of handy information to learn more about the problem and see how to keep it under control.
There are four different sections in the digital guide. The first three sections are educational and include causes, symptoms, and signs to pay attention to. The last section includes multiple lifestyles and dietary changes you can make to reverse the problem. The program is natural and non-toxic.
While the list can go longer, it pays off sticking to reputable natural solutions written or created by experts. Thyroid Support is by far the most popular option out there because of its natural composition and ingredients, as well as the approach towards tackling both the causes and symptoms.
Shop Hypothyroidism Solution at the Official Website.
Full Article: The Hypothyroidism Solution Reviews 2024: Does it Really Work?
Risks of Thyroid Problems
Different thyroid problems can cause different complications.
Hyperthyroidism can cause numerous eye-related problems, from watery eyes and red eyes to double vision and even sensitivity to light. Pregnancy problems can also arise, and severe thyroid affection may even lead to miscarriage.
It may sound unusual, but there is a fine line between an overactive thyroid and an underactive one. The treatment for hyperthyroidism can affect the gland and may even lead to hypothyroidism, leading to a new set of problems.
In some cases, if left untreated, hyperthyroidism can lead to a thyroid storm, which is an explosion of numerous symptoms at once. In more severe cases, this complication can be fatal. It may also include a rapid heartbeat, temperature, diarrhea, and even unconsciousness.
Osteoporosis, atrial fibrillation, and heart failure are among the most severe complications too.
Hypothyroidism has a different set of complications, such as heart problems. More cholesterol will end up in your blood vessels, and chronic cardiovascular disease is only a few steps away. Chest pain must be addressed as quickly as possible.
Goitre is also common. It can be described as an unexpected and sudden increase in size. The most obvious sign is a lump in the throat. Multiple pregnancy complications could also be caused by hypothyroidism.
Myxoedema coma is one of the most severe complications. The good news is it is quite rare and less likely to affect patients, especially if they receive the right treatment. Signs of myxoedema coma include hypothermia, drowsiness, and loss of consciousness.
Takeaway
Thyroid disease can embrace more forms and can affect people from all over the world. Unfortunately, lots of people have no clue that they suffer from such condition, and many times, symptoms can go unnoticed.
Whether you are trying to prevent it or keep it under control, there are more supplements and programs out there, with Thyroid Support being the most popular one because of its unique formula of vitamins, minerals, and herbs with proven effects on the thyroid gland.
Click here to get Thyroid Support at a Discounted Price.
What Are the Early Warning Signs of Thyroid Problems FAQs
How serious can a thyroid problem be?
Many of the issues associated with a thyroid problem can be treated. Some others become chronic, especially if the disease and its signs have been overlooked for too long. To play it safe, get checked if you notice anything unusual and start the treatment early. Some complications can be life-threatening.
Who is most at risk for thyroid problems?
People with a family history of thyroid disease are more at risk. The disease is more common in women than in men too, yet it can affect people of any gender or age, including elders or babies, males or females.
What food should be avoided if you have a thyroid problem?
There are certain foods you should avoid if you have been diagnosed with a thyroid problem. Iodized salt is one of them but also stay away from fish, shellfish, and molasses. Food products rich in red dye are to be avoided, too, not to mention egg yolks.