It may be small, but your thyroid gland is mighty. Your thyroid is an endocrine gland located in the front of your neck and is responsible for producing the hormones your body needs to function properly. 

Because this gland is so closely linked with every process in your body, if something goes wrong with your thyroid your body will end up being affected in many different ways. It’s not uncommon for the symptoms to be chalked up to other conditions so it’s important to be able to recognize the signs and symptoms of thyroid disorders in order to get treatment as soon as possible.

Thyroid Disorders

There are two types of thyroid disorders: hyperthyroidism (you’re producing too many thyroid hormones) and hypothyroidism (you’re not producing enough thyroid hormones).

In hyperthyroidism, your cells go into overdrive which causes your body and organs to work much faster. This can speed up your digestive process, resulting in more frequent bowel movements. Hyperthyroidism can also cause anxiety and an increased heart rate.

If you have hypothyroidism, your body, cells, and organs will slow down. You’ll find yourself more tired than usual, your heart rate may lower, and instead of increased bathroom activity, you might end up constipated.

7 Early Warning Signs of Thyroid Issues

• Fatigued and tired
• Unexplained weight gain
• Unexplained weight loss
• Slowed heart rate
• Increased heart rate
• Sensitivity to Heat
• Sensitivity to Cold

You should contact your GP if you start experiencing the early warning signs of a thyroid disorder, especially if the symptoms come on suddenly and without explanation. Other symptoms of thyroid disorders can include:

• Hyperthyroidism- irregular heartbeat, heart palpitations, increased appetite, tremors, sweating, irregular periods, nervousness, irritability, sensitivity to heat, enlarged thyroid gland, muscle weakness, brittle hair, thinning skin.
• Hypothyroidism- Puffy face, muscle weakness, elevated high cholesterol, dry skin, weight gain, tiredness, increased sensitivity to cold, a hoarse voice, high cholesterol, muscle stiffness and pain, joint stiffness and pain, irregular periods, thinning hair, enlarged thyroid gland, depression, cognitive impairment.

What Causes Thyroid Disorders?

Thyroid problems are common, affecting at least 1 in 20 people during their lifetimes. A thyroid disorder can be present at birth or can develop later in life. The symptoms may be temporary or life-long. 

Some health conditions like autoimmune diseases, genetic disorders, and iodine deficiency can lead to thyroid disorders. Certain medications, especially those used in cancer treatment, can also contribute to the development of thyroid dysfunction. Pregnancy is another common cause of thyroid hormone imbalances.

Thyroid diseases are most often found in women, but they can affect anyone of any age and any gender. Those who are higher at risk for thyroid disorders include people who:

• Have a family history of thyroid disease
• Have medical conditions like type 1 diabetes or lupus.
• Take medications high in iodine.
• Are over the age of 60.
• Have had previous thyroid problems or thyroid cancers.

Underactive Thyroid Treatment

If you have been diagnosed with hypothyroidism, you will need to take medication to restore your thyroid hormone levels since your thyroid gland isn’t making enough on its own. Levothyroxine tablets can rebalance your thyroid hormone levels and reduce/resolve any hypothyroidism symptoms you may be experiencing.

You can buy underactive thyroid treatment Levothyroxine Tablets online in the UK from Pharmacy Planet.