50+Living APRIL 2019

Page 28

6 Signs You May Have a Thyroid Problem by beconrad

T

he thyroid may be a tiny organ, but it has a large and important role to play in your body. The thyroid is responsible for regulating hormone levels and making sure your metabolism is working the way it should. If your thyroid levels are too low, the condition is known as hypothyroidism. If your hormone levels are too high, that is known as hyperthyroidism. Both hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism have their own signs and symptoms, and it is important to know what those signals mean. Your doctor should check your thyroid levels during your annual examination, but if you suspect trouble

between visits you should bring it up with your medical team. Unfortunately, the signs of both low and high thyroid levels can often be somewhat vague and unspecific. The symptoms of both hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism can also mimic other common conditions, some of them quite serious. This is why it is so important to consult your doctor if you notice any of the following 6 symptoms.

1. Nervousness If you are feeling more nervous lately, it might not be your terrible boss or your busy life. Nervousness can also be a sign of hyperthyroidism. The over-production of the hormones normally present in your thyroid gland can affect your mood and make you more nervous than usual. It is easy to write off an increase in nervousness as a response to changes in your life, but you should not rule out a thyroid problem.

2. Tremors When the thyroid gland becomes overactive, the resulting hormone imbalance can cause physical as well as emotional symptoms. Tremors are a classic sign of an overactive thyroid, and one you should report to your doctor right away. Page 28 | 50+ Living | April 2019


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