Hypothyroidism is when the body doesn't produce enough of the thyroid hormone.Some people may have it without showing any symptoms at all.It varies from person to person.There are signs that your metabolism is slowing or that you have too much sugar in your body.Being able to spot early signs of hypothyroidism can help you get tested for it and seek medical treatment when needed.
Step 1: Evaluate your energy levels.
A recent drop in your energy levels is one of the most common signs of potential hypothyroidism.Hypothyroidism can lead to a feeling of fatigue and sluggishness because it is related to your metabolism.
Step 2: Any recent weight changes should be observed.
Hypothyroidism can cause you to gain weight because your metabolism is slowed down.It is possible that you have been gaining weight for an unexplained reason.
Step 3: Look at how you feel in the cold.
Hypothyroidism can cause you to be less able to handle being out in the cold.When your metabolism is slowed, you can't get the same internal heat to keep you warm.
Step 4: Take into account any changes to your skin, hair, or eyes.
Hypothyroidism can cause signs such as a lack of sweating, a thicker skin, and brittle nails.If you notice any of these things in conjunction with other more common signs, such as fatigue and weight gain, you should book an appointment with your doctor to have your thyroid tested.
Step 5: You should watch for changes in your sleep and mood.
Hypothyroidism can be a sign of a depressed mood.For others, it can lead to snoring and/or fitful periods of sleep with awakenings during the night.
Step 6: Take notice of the unusual stools.
Hypothyroidism can lead to other problems.If you are having less than three bowel movements in a week, you should talk to your doctor.As your doctor can help you to manage this problem, it is beneficial to speak up about this.
Step 7: It's a good idea to be aware of any unusual pauses in breath.
Hypothyroidism can cause you to be short of breath.If you find it hard to catch your breath walking or working out at the gym, it may be a sign that you have a problem with your thyroid.Unexplained shortness of breath is still a concern that should be evaluated by your physician if it is not hypothyroidism.
Step 8: Be on the lookout for other signs.
Hypothyroidism can vary from person to person.Mild swelling around the eyes, high blood pressure, elevated cholesterol, and memory loss are some of the signs that occur less frequently.
Step 9: You should get a blood test.
Your doctor can perform a simple blood test to confirm a diagnosis if you show signs of potential hypothyroidism.Your doctor will usually check for the hormones TSH and T4 and sometimes T3 as well.Your brain travels to the back of your neck and tells it to make TSH, which in turn makes your hormones.There are different forms of T4 in the body.T4 is the main active hormone and is tested.The only sure way to know if you have the condition is to have a blood test.
Step 10: If necessary, get treatment.
The good news is that the treatment for hypothyroidism is very simple.In order to get your levels back into the normal range, most people are prescribed synthetic T4 and Levothyroxine.If you have been diagnosed with hypothyroidism on your blood tests, you should speak to your doctor to get a prescription for this medication.An hour before breakfast is the ideal time to take synthetic T4 hormone.The treatments may not take effect immediately.Over the first few months, your doctor will need to pay close attention to your thyroid levels to determine the correct dose of medication.
Step 11: You can get regular thyroid measurements.
After being diagnosed and receiving initial medical treatment, you will need to go in for regular blood tests to make sure that your thyroid levels are normal.If they continue to fall outside of the normal range, your doctor can adjust the dose of your medication to make sure that your levels are within the range.