What happens in the thyroid doesn’t stay in the thyroid. The hormonal imbalances caused by thyroid dysfunction impact energy levels, mood, weight and our ability to function normally. Unfortunately, there is still so much mystery surrounding the importance of thyroid health. As a result, many people living with thyroid conditions are diagnosed with a myriad of other disorders and conditions before finally discovering a hormonal imbalance within the thyroid.

Thyroid dysfunction can be difficult to diagnose because there are many different thyroid disorders that can produce both varying and overlapping symptoms. It’s important for people suffering from thyroid problems to know that there are many treatment options for regulating thyroid function. Here at Functional & Metabolic Medicine of Colorado, Dr. Sipay helps patients suffering from all types of thyroid disorders restore hormonal balance.

Signs & Symptoms of Thyroid Dysfunction

A thyroid gland that is out of balance can produce a wide range of symptoms impacting nearly all systems within the body. Your specific symptoms may be determined by whether you have an overactive or underactive thyroid. While an overactive thyroid is known to cause weight loss, an underactive thyroid can slow your metabolism to cause weight gain.

Overactive Thyroid (Hyperthyroidism) Symptoms:

  • An enlarged thyroid gland.
  • Anxiety.
  • Constant nervousness.
  • Irritability.
  • Weight loss.
  • Muscle weakness.
  • Tremors.
  • Sensitivity to heat.
  • Excessive sweating.
  • Irregular menstrual cycles.
  • Vision problems.
  • Frequent bowel movements.
  • Rapid heart rate.

Underactive Thyroid (Hypothyroidism) Symptoms:

  • Weight gain.
  • Tiredness.
  • Forgetfulness and brain fog.
  • Vocal hoarseness.
  • Dry skin.
  • Dry hair.
  • Hair loss.
  • Heavier menstrual periods.
  • Intolerance to cold.
  • Slow heart rate.
  • Depression.

Most people first begin to suspect that something is going on when they experience unexplained weight fluctuations. For people with hypothyroidism, there is often frustration about being unable to take off weight using diet and exercise. The danger here is that many people dismiss this stubborn weight as being a “natural part of aging.” Other people simply feel extreme fatigue even though no physical symptoms are present.

When to See a Doctor for Thyroid Symptoms

You should see a doctor right away for a physical examination, blood testing or imaging if you suspect that your thyroid is out of balance. Blood testing is the most accurate way to diagnose hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism. Blood tests can also be used to diagnose thyroid-related conditions that include:

  • Thyroiditis.
  • Graves’ disease.
  • Hashimoto’s disease.
  • Goiter.
  • Nodules.

There is no “quick fix” for thyroid dysfunction. Getting thyroid hormones back in balance often requires medications, supplements and lifestyle changes. It’s also so important to rule out thyroid cancer as a cause for your thyroid symptoms.

Causes of Thyroid Dysfunction

While anyone can develop a thyroid condition, there are certain risk factors that increase your chances of experiencing a thyroid disruption. Type 1 diabetes places you at higher risk for developing a thyroid disease. Type 2 diabetes also creates a slightly elevated risk. The risk factors specifically for hypothyroidism include Hashimoto’s, thyroiditis (swelling of the thyroid gland), iodine deficiency and a non-functioning thyroid gland from birth. Some risk factors for hyperthyroidism include thyroiditis (swelling of the thyroid gland), excessive iodine, Graves’ disease and overactive nodules.

Complications of Thyroid Dysfunction

One of the biggest dangers of allowing a thyroid issue to go untreated is the risk for seizures caused by low serum sodium (hyponatremia). It’s very important to work with a care provider to return your thyroid levels to normal. An untreated thyroid issue can cause your health to deteriorate until systems within your body are ultimately unable to function properly. The most serious risks associated with untreated thyroid disorders are infertility, nerve injury, heart damage and death.

See a Colorado Functional Medicine Doctor for Thyroid Disorders

If you suspect that a thyroid issue is behind your symptoms, it’s time to see Dr. Susan Sipay at Functional & Metabolic Medicine in Littleton, Colorado. We focus on whole-body healing that looks at your thyroid function as an integral part of your health. In addition to helping you get a diagnosis, our team can help you create a plan for managing your thyroid issue to restore balance and function. Please call (720) 791-2911 or email sipaymd@functionalmetabolicmedicine.com today for an appointment!