The thyroid gland, located in the neck, produces hormones that are involved in the regulation of metabolic processes and ensure the normal functioning of the body. Endocrine diseases are a common problem in modern times. Together with oncological and cardiovascular, they are among the first three diseases that reduce the quality and shorten the duration of human life. Dysfunction of the thyroid gland is one of the most insidious diseases of our time. After all, the signs of its very easy to confuse with the symptoms of less dangerous diseases.
Thyroid and Flu Diseases: Symptom Identity
The most common disorders of the endocrine system are:
- hypothyroidism, which indicates a lack of activity of the thyroid gland;
- hyperthyroidism, indicating increased hormone production.
Both diseases can provoke hormonal, physical and psychological disorders in the human body.
Some ignore the disturbing symptoms, blaming them on fatigue, stress, or the common cold. Only without the correct diagnosis and appropriate treatment to eliminate the problem will not succeed. Therefore, it is very important to know what signs should be the reason for visiting the endocrinologist.
Probably every person at least once in their life had to experience an unpleasant sensation of sore throat. This is usually considered a consequence of colds. But such sensations are sometimes observed as a result of an enlarged thyroid gland. Therefore, if such symptoms persist for several days, you should contact a specialist to conduct a full examination, identify the causes of the disease and assign appropriate therapy.
In the case of hyperfunction of the thyroid gland, hoarseness and rapid fatigue of the voice are sometimes observed, which can also be a manifestation of a cold.
A hand shake, increased heart rate and severe muscle weakness – flu-like symptoms may well be signs of reduced hormone production.
Weight gain and hair loss as a result of changes in thyroid hormone levels
Another reason to visit an endocrinologist may be hair loss. Strands become brittle and dry, and this also applies to eyebrows and eyelashes. A similar problem may arise as a result of a decrease in thyroid function. And with hyperthyroidism, sometimes dry scalp, as well as thinning hair.
Often, instead of identifying and eliminating the cause of a problem, people struggle with its consequences. And this is not correct, because anything can be the cause of hair loss, including a violation of the level of thyroid hormones.
Another point to which you should pay attention – this is a quick set of body weight or its rapid decline. Increased hormone production means faster metabolism. Hormones secreted in large quantities lead to the expenditure of body resources. This thyroid disease is characterized by symptoms such as rapid weight loss, increased appetite, and increased frequency of bowel movements.
Weight gain can also be an alarming symptom of a dangerous disease. Some blame it on insufficient physical activity or overeating. The reason may be hiding in the development of hypothyroidism – a decrease in thyroid function. In this case, there is a slowdown of metabolic processes, and as a result, an increase in body weight. In addition, due to water retention, the person swells, which also contributes to weight gain.
Both problems can be solved by normalizing the work of the endocrine system. When the thyroid hormones reach their optimum level, weight problems will also disappear over time.
Fatigue and anxiety as signs of thyroid disease
Many blamed the constant feeling of fatigue for heavy workload and the lack of proper rest. In fact, severe fatigue in the absence of obvious reasons may indicate thyroid disease. When the general malaise and apathy do not disappear even after a full sleep, and mood swings become more frequent, you should not write off everything as stress. In this case, it makes sense to consult an endocrinologist.
When hyperthyroidism may cause insomnia, which also makes you feel tired tired throughout the day. And in the case of hypothyroidism, the energy deficit can be felt even after a full sleep. Deterioration of concentration and drowsiness can also be a reason for a visit to an endocrinologist.
Psychological problems such as irritability, increased anxiety, depression. Moreover, the latter develops against the background of hypothyroidism, and anxiety, irritability and panic attacks are the result of the development of hypothyroidism.
Other problems resulting from diseases of the endocrine system
If there are problems with the thyroid gland, there is a violation of the menstruation cycle. Irregularity, abundance and painful periods can be a symptom of hypothyroidism, in which thyroid hormones are secreted in excess. And with hyperthyroidism, menstruation, on the contrary, becomes more rare, scarce and short.
If a person becomes cold or hot for no particular reason – this can also be the result of changes in the level of hormones, which affects the thermoregulatory abilities of the human body. Persistent cold is a possible sign of hypothyroidism, while hot flushes can occur in case of hyperthyroidism.
The next symptom that should not be ignored is the appearance of problems with the digestive process. Constipation and diarrhea may indicate that the thyroid gland is not working properly. The hormones produced by this organ are able to influence the process of digestion and elimination of decomposition products. For example, constipation suggests the development of hypothyroidism, and diarrhea may well be a symptom of hyperthyroidism.
And the last thing you should pay attention to is the condition of the skin. In case of hypothyroidism, the skin may become dry and pale. In addition, it is possible peeling and wrinkles.
When one of these symptoms is found, it is impossible to say with certainty that the thyroid gland is not functioning properly, since such symptoms may indicate other diseases. But if a person has not visited an endocrinologist for a long time and noticed such changes in himself .