What Is an Underactive Thyroid And What Are Underactive Thyroid Symptoms?

Underactive thyroid, or hypothyroidism, is an abnormally poor functioning of the thyroid gland. Until recently, hypothyroidism was only diagnosed if TSH readings were 5 and over, but thankfully recent changes mean patients are now diagnosed and provided medication in the range of 2-3 if they are also showing significant underactive thyroid symptoms.

Although some medical communities believe underactive thyroid function affects only 5% of the population, there is a great deal more research suggesting that in actual fact, underactive thyroid function affects almost 1 in 4 people and is the cause of many “undiagnosed” health complaints.

The reason it is so hard to diagnose underactive thyroid function is because everyone has a different variety and degree of symptoms, and testing is slow to show changes in the thyroid as we are still relying on the outdated idea that TSH is the best determinant of thyroid health.

Of the people who are diagnosed with hypothyroidism it is estimate that 90% have an autoimmune condition known as Hashimoto’s. The antibodies for Hashimoto’s can be raised for 3-10 years before any changes take place in TSH readings, however patients often feel the symptoms for many of those years.

Here are some (not all) common underactive thyroid symptoms:

·      Fatigue (excessive tiredness)

·      Constipation, gas, bloating, and digestive upset

·      Muscle and joint pain and stiffness

·      Weight gain and inability to lose weight

·      Memory loss and poor concentration

·      Depression and/or anxiety

·      Muscle weakness

·      Puffy face and eyelids

·      Hoarse voice and slow speech

·      Infertility and loss of libido

·      Painful, irregular and heavy periods

·      Early menopause

·      Ankle swelling

·      Cold hands and feet

·      Intolerance to cold, feels much better in the heat

·      Coarse, dry skin and thinning, brittle hair

·      Eczema and psoriasis

·      Candida

·      Recurrent infections, especially post-nasal drip

·      Breathlessness with little exhaustion

Just because you don't have all of these symptoms does NOT mean you don't have a underactive thyroid. Unfortunately, many people suffer from the symptoms of hypothyroidism are told that all their results are “normal”. This should not be taken as the final word!

Make sure to take charge of your health by becoming knowledgeable about your individual thyroid health status. Empower yourself with information and pave the way for optimal well-being. Here at thyroid wellness diet we can help you on this journey.