Thyroid Disorders: More Common than You’d Think

1. It can release too little TH, a condition known as hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid), where your body’s metabolic rate slows down. Symptoms vary widely and include fatigue, menstrual cycle irregularities, depression, low body temperature, weight gain, dry or itchy skin, constipation and thin, dry hair or hair loss. Hypothyroidism can occur spontaneously, develop during or after pregnancy or after treatment for hyperthyroidism. You can be born with this condition.

2. It can release too much TH, a condition known as hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid), causing your body's metabolic rate to speed up. Symptoms of hyperthyroidism include nervousness/irritability, weight loss, fast or irregular heart rate, heat intolerance or increased perspiration, changes in appetite and sleep disturbances (such as insomnia), muscle weakness, shorter and lighter menstrual flow and more frequent bowel movements.