Common Thyroid Issues in Women and their treatment

What does the Thyroid do?

It affects blood pressure, heart rate, body temperature, weight, and many other vital body functions. It produces three major hormones: Triiodothyronine, also known as T3, Tetraiodothyronine, also called thyroxine or T4, and Calcitonin.

Symptoms of Thyroid issues in women

Thyroid malfunctions are one of the most common health problems women face. Here are the symptoms that might indicate a malfunction in your Thyroid.

Weight changes

One of the main symptoms of hypothyroidism is the slowing down of all vital functions, including metabolism. If you have hypothyroidism, you will gain weight faster and your body will retain water. Weight gain can cause Varicose veins. If you have overactive thyroid, you will lose weight without trying to.

Blood pressure and heart rate fluctuation

There is a close connection between thyroid hormones and the heart, which affects blood pressure and heart rate. In the case of hypothyroidism, the heart rate is slower than normal. However, if you have an overactive thyroid your heart rate will be faster than normal, both cases will cause major problems in blood pressure and body functions.

Changes in urine and stool

Hypothyroidism affects the digestive tract, which leads to changes in urine and stool. If your thyroid is underactive, the frequency of urinating decreases, and you might become constipated as well. But if you have an overactive thyroid, you will urinate more frequently, and you might have diarrhea.

Fatigue and exhaustion

These are two of the main symptoms of Thyroid malfunction in women, whether it is hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism, you will feel tired all the time. This exhaustion is mainly due to joint pains and stiffness, and muscle weakness, which happens because of the lack of absorption of some minerals and vitamins such as calcium.

Mood changes

Hypothyroidism greatly affects mood, and it can often lead to depression and isolation. Hyperthyroidism affects mood differently confusing mixed feelings of stress, anger, anxiety, and lack of control over emotions.

Irregular period and fertility issues

If you have an underactive thyroid, you might have a heavy flow during your periods. An overactive thyroid can cause irregular periods and irregular ovulation which can delay conception.

Effects on hair and skin

One of the symptoms of Hypothyroidism is severe dryness in hair and skin, in addition to hair loss. Hyperthyroidism weakens the hair and causes skin paleness and dullness.

Brain fog

A thyroid malfunction, especially Hypothyroidism, affects brain functions, causing distraction, difficulty concentrating, forgetfulness, and overall brain fog.

Dryness and swelling of the eyes

Hyperthyroidism can cause vision changes, in addition to swelling, dryness, and irritation in the eyes.

Feeling cold or hot

When your thyroid is underactive you will feel overheated, or too cold due to the slow blood circulation. An overactive thyroid on the other hand will make you sensitive to any temperature changes.

Treatments for Thyroid Issues in Women

Hypothyroidism can be temporary which means you don’t always need to take medications for the rest of your life. But in some cases, determined by your doctor you will set a course of treatment suitable for your case.

Below are the most common treatments used to treat thyroid issues in women:

Medication

Thyroid issues are mainly caused by the disturbance of hormone production, the most common form of treatment is hormone replacement therapy. This option is safe but can be uncomfortable and the dose may need to be adjusted over time.

Thyroidectomy

There are some severe cases where the thyroid must be removed partially or completely, followed by hormone replacement therapy. This option is usually used with Thyroid tumors that can be treated with surgery.

If you are trying to conceive and you are on hormone replacement therapy you need to consult your doctor about adjusting the dose before getting pregnant and throughout your pregnancy.