Checklist to Track Hypothyroid Symptoms

Hypothyroidism is characterized by insufficient production of hormones by the thyroid gland. These hormones have key roles in regulating the body’s metabolism, and in their absence many of the body’s functions begin to slow down. To detect hypothyroid-related changes, it helps to learn some of the progressive symptoms of the disorder.

Understanding Hypothyroid Symptoms

• If you suffer from hypothyroidism, the severity of your symptoms will depend upon the severity of your hormone deficiency, according to the Mayo Clinic. Typically, signs of the disorder develop over an extended period, and you might not clearly notice their effects for years.

Potential Early Signs

• Initial signs of hypothyroidism frequently include sluggishness and fatigue, which can be mistakenly attributed to natural aging. As your metabolism continues to slow, additional signs of hypothyroidism will appear. Although symptoms can vary, potential problems to look for include unexplained weight gain; depression; constipation; decreased sexual interest; an increased sensitivity to cold; facial puffiness; high cholesterol; muscle aches, tenderness and stiffness; muscle weakness; swelling, stiffness and pain in your joints; abnormally heavy menstruation; hoarseness in your voice; dry skin; and brittle hair or nails. If you develop any of these signs, or if you frequently feel tired for no known reason, see your doctor for a proper diagnosis. Although hypothyroidism might not be responsible for your symptoms, it could explain a seemingly unrelated series of nagging complaints.

Potential Later and Advanced Signs

• If your hypothyroidism is not treated, you will experience a deepening of your existing symptoms. In addition, you might develop an enlarged thyroid gland, known as goiter. You can experience a noticeable slowing of your mental functions, and memory loss. If your hypothyroidism becomes severe, you may develop a life-threatening condition called myxedema, characterized by decreases in body temperature and breathing rate, low blood pressure, and unresponsiveness that can lead to coma.

Signs In Infants, Children and Teenagers

• Hypothyroidism most typically affects women over age 50, but it can strike anyone at any age. If your infant is born with a thyroid deficiency, her symptoms can include facial puffiness, a protruding tongue, choking, and jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes). If the disorder is not diagnosed, your child might experience delayed growth and feeding difficulties, as well as unusual sleepiness, poor muscle tone and constipation.

  If your teen or young child develops hypothyroidism, his symptoms will generally be similar to those of an adult. In addition, he might experience delays in the development of his permanent teeth and in the onset of puberty, as well as poor physical growth and mental development.

  Consult your doctor for more information on the telltale signs of progressive hypothyroidism.