Risk Factors and Early Warning Signs of a Thyroid Disorder

Do you wonder about the butterfly-shaped gland in the front of your neck called the thyroid? Though small, it plays a vital role in regulating various functions. These include metabolism, energy levels, body temperature, and mood. But like any other organ, the thyroid can experience issues. This can lead to a thyroid disorder. It would help to explore its risk factors and early warning signs.
 

Understanding Thyroid Disorders

Thyroid issues can arise when the thyroid gland is not working correctly. It’s mostly about thyroid hormone production becoming excessive or insufficient. Hypothyroidism occurs when the thyroid does not create enough thyroid hormones.
 

Hyperthyroidism occurs when the thyroid produces excessive amounts of thyroid hormones. Both can throw off the body's hormonal balance. This can cause various symptoms and health problems.
 

Risk Factors for Thyroid Disorders

Hormone disorders can affect anyone. But some risk factors can make them more likely to occur in you. Typical risk elements include:
 

Gender and Age

Females are more likely to experience thyroid problems. Moreover, these problems are more common in middle-aged and older people.
 

Family History

If thyroid disorders run in your family, your risk may be higher. A genetic component might make thyroid problems more likely to occur.
 

Autoimmune Diseases

The likelihood of having a thyroid issue can rise with certain autoimmune conditions. These include Graves' disease and Hashimoto's thyroiditis.

Iodine Deficiency

The thyroid gland cannot produce thyroid hormones without iodine. Living in a region where the soil or water has little iodine can raise the risk of thyroid conditions. The same is true for eating a diet low in iodine.
 

Early Warning Signs of Thyroid Disorders

Many symptoms can result from thyroid conditions. Depending on how active or inactive the thyroid is, these can vary. Here are some typical early warning symptoms that could point to a thyroid condition:
 

• Weakness and Fatigue: Hypothyroidism can slow the body's metabolism, resulting in less energy.
• Unexplained Weight Changes: Hypothyroidism can cause weight gain; hyperthyroidism can cause weight reduction.
• Blood pressure and Heart Rate Changes: Hyperthyroidism causes the heart to work harder. This can alter blood pressure and heart rate.
• Body Temperature Changes: Hyperthyroidism can increase body temperature. Hypothyroidism can result in a decrease.
• Mood Changes and Mental Health: Depression, impatience, and difficulty concentrating are possible effects of hypothyroidism. Anxiety, agitation, and mood changes can result from hyperthyroidism.
• Skin, Hair, and Nails Changes: Hypothyroidism impairs the body's capacity to replenish cells.
• Changes in Digestion: Hypothyroidism can slow digestion, whereas hyperthyroidism can speed it up.
• Muscle and Joint Pain: Both conditions can cause muscle and joint pain.
• Menstrual Cycle Changes: Hyperthyroidism can result in lighter or shorter cycles. Hypothyroidism can produce irregular or heavy cycles.
• Voice and Neck Swelling: Both hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism can result in a goiter.

The thyroid is a vital gland essential for controlling several body processes. Thyroid issues can cause various symptoms and health problems. This is because they upset the body's hormonal balance. But you can recognize potential problems early and seek the proper treatment.
 

For more on thyroid disorders, visit 22 Health & Hormone at our office in Altamonte Springs, Florida. Call (321) 972-6159 to book an appointment today.