The Telltale Signs That Say You Need to Take a Thyroid Test Right Away
Did you know that an estimated 20 million people in the US have thyroid disease? However, six in 10 of those individuals aren’t even aware they have the condition!
Unfortunately, untreated thyroid disorders can contribute to the development of cardiovascular diseases. In some people, they can also cause infertility or even osteoporosis.
For those reasons, it’s imperative to know when you need to undergo a thyroid test. We rounded up the common signs and symptoms that should prompt you to get one, so be sure to read on.
Appetite Changes
The thyroid gland releases two types of hormones: triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4). Both T3 and T4 play roles in digestion, energy, and metabolism.
For those reasons, having either too much or too little T3, T4, or both can lead to appetite changes. Moreover, thyroid problems appear to increase the risk for eating disorders.
So, if your hunger has increased or diminished without a clear cause, it may be time for a thyroid condition test. It’s even more crucial if you also have problems with bowel movements. For example, constipation and appetite changes can be signs of low thyroid levels.
Weight Gain
Since thyroid hormones impact appetite, digestion, and metabolism, they affect your weight, too.
For instance, inadequate thyroid hormones can lead to inefficient burning of calories. According to Healthylivingmed.com, such insufficiencies result from hypothyroidism.
Increased hunger and food consumption can make the problem worse. The longer these issues go on, the more weight you’re at risk of gaining.
With that said, be sure to have your thyroid tested as soon as you notice changes in your appetite and weight.
Lethargy and Fatigue
Aside from metabolism, thyroid functions also include muscle contraction and heartbeat regulation. As such, this gland is essential to maintaining adequate energy levels. For the same reason, low thyroid hormone levels can result in lethargy and fatigue.
What’s more, you may experience those symptoms even after a night of sleep. In addition, the lower your thyroid levels, the more exhausted you’re likely to feel.
Feeling tired all the time can impact your day-to-day activities and overall health. Moreover, it can contribute to the development of a sedentary lifestyle. That, in turn, can heighten your risks for more weight gain and even heart disease or diabetes.
So, it’s best to get a thyroid test before any of those complications occur.
Muscle-Related Woes
Some people with hypothyroidism can experience muscle disease, also known as myopathy. The signs of hypothyroid myopathy, in turn, include muscle pain, stiffness, and weakness. In most cases, these problems affect the shoulder and thigh muscles.
Muscle weakness can also occur due to hyperthyroidism. Hyperthyroidism occurs when thyroid hormone levels are too high. In some cases, hyperthyroid myopathy can also result in muscle cramps.
Get a Thyroid Test to Get Your Hormones Under Control
From weight gain to muscle aches and being hungry and tired all the time, all these can be signs of thyroid woes. As such, it’s best to undergo a thyroid test as soon as you experience these symptoms. The sooner you get tested, the sooner your doctor can help you normalize your thyroid levels.
