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Thyroid Symptoms in a Female

The thyroid governs metabolism. Most patients with thyroid disorders, according to the National Institutes for Health's Medline Plus, are women. Symptoms are largely dependent on the type of thyroid problem.

  1. Hyperthyroidism

    • This is characterized by the overproduction of thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), and commonly affects women between 20 and 40. Symptoms include nervousness, weight loss, light menstrual periods, increased frequency of bowel movements, diarrhea, increased perspiration, irritability and fast heartbeat.

    Hypothyroidism

    • This is characterized by the underproduction of TSH. Symptoms include fatigue, sensitivity to cold, slowed heartbeat, heavy menstrual periods, weight gain and constipation.

    Graves' Disease

    • The symptoms of this form of hyperthyroidism include bulging eyes, enlarged thyroid (goiter), anxiety, excessive perspiration, weight loss, breathing problems, muscle weakness and sensitivity to heat.

    Hashimoto's Disease

    • In this form of hypothyroidism, the immune system attacks the thyroid, causing decreased TSH production. Symptoms include fatigue, intolerance to cold, enlarged thyroid (goiter), problems swallowing, mild weight gain, infertility, menstrual irregularities and early graying of the hair.

    Postpartum Thyroiditis

    • About 5 percent of women are affected by this thyroid inflammation after giving birth, according to the Hormone Foundation. Initially, patients experience symptoms like hyperthyroidism that, left untreated, ultimately result in hypothyroidism.

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