The thyroid is a butterfly-shaped gland located in the front of the neck. It regulates your metabolism and helps the body perform several other functions. Hypothyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland doesn't produce enough thyroid hormones. This can lead to different problems in the body. Women are more likely to develop the condition.
According to reports, 200 million people suffer from thyroid problems. Also, 1 in 8 women has thyroid issues, and they are 8 times more likely than men to develop the condition. Here are some common signs of hypothyroidism in women.
Fatigue and low energy
One of the earliest and most persistent signs is feeling constantly tired, even after you get a good sleep. Since thyroid hormones regulate metabolism, when there's a drop in hormone levels, it can slow down different processes in the body, making you feel tired and fatigued.
Unexplained weight gain
If you're gaining weight even with no changes in your diet or activity level, it could be due to hypothyroidism. Low thyroid hormone levels slow down your metabolism. This causes your body to burn fewer calories, leading to weight gain.
Irregular or heavy periods
Thyroid hormones impact your menstrual cycle. Hypothyroidism can lead to heavier, longer or more frequent periods. It can also make it harder to conceive due to hormone imbalances.
Depression or mood changes
A drop in thyroid hormone levels can affect neurotransmitters like serotonin. This leads to feelings of sadness, anxiety or depression. Some women may also have difficulty concentrating or memory issues, which is also known as “brain fog.”
Dry skin and hair thinning
Thyroid hormones play an important role in maintaining healthy skin and hair. When you have hypothyroidism, the skin can become dry, rough and pale, and your hair might thin or fall out more than usual.
Disclaimer: Tips and suggestions mentioned in the article are for general information purposes only and should not be construed as professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor or a dietician before starting any fitness programme or making any changes to your diet.
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