Weight gain, brain fog, thinning hair – it might be perimenopause, but what if it’s actually an underactive thyroid? Symptoms can sometimes be mistaken causing women to go without the proper treatment for too long. These are the symptoms to look out (and get medical help) for.
ALSO SEE: Are your hormones behind your achy joints?
Hypothyroidism – an underactive thyroid – is actually a common condition among women but sometimes overlooked. Symptoms tend to develop quite slowly and are usually mistaken for stress. Even worse, the symptoms often look like perimenopause/menopause symptoms, which further leads to misdiagnosis. But you know your body, and it’s important you know what to look out for so you can seek support and feel like yourself again.
Fatigue that doesn’t go away
Ongoing tiredness is one of the most common signs. It’s not just feeling a bit low but a deep and draining fatigue that doesn’t go away after rest. If you’re getting enough hours of sleep but still wake up exhausted, it’s worth investigating.
Feeling cold all the time
An underactive thyroid causes the body to struggle to regulate temperature efficiently. Therefore, sensitivity to cold is a classic symptom. If you feel like being under a blanket despite the weather being fine, get your thyroid levels checked out.
Weight gain
Hypothyroidism causes the metabolism to slow down. So you might be gaining weight unexplainably despite having exactly the same diet and fitness routine. This can be frustrating when your usual habits no longer seem to be working.
Changes in hair, nails and skin
Thinning hair, brittle nails and flaky skin are all associated with an underactive thyroid. This can happen gradually but don’t dismiss them too quickly.
Brain fog
This condition also affects concentration so you might find yourself being forgetful and generally in a low mood. Some people even experience mild depression.
Heavy periods
Thyroid dysfunction can affect your hormonal balance and menstrual cycle. Notice if you’re period is becoming more frequent, heavier or irregular. Something may be off.
Muscle weakness and slow heart rate
You may feel like tasks are much harder to do, or suffer from muscle aches along with a slower heart rate. This is a big indicator that something is wrong.
When to get medical support
If you’re experiencing the cluster of these symptoms, speak to your GP. A simple blood test will provide clarity. Treatment is usually straightforward and can improve quality of life greatly. Listen to your body, trust your instincts and get help as soon as possible.
ALSO SEE:
Featured image: Pexels
