Written by P. Deepika, Content Writer, Healthcare Industry.

A common issue that comes to our mind when we hear “thyroid” is weight gain and fatigue, but what everyone else is not aware of is about the brain fog, chronic hair thinning, and mood swings. The other symptoms include heart rate fluctuations, temperature sensitivity, and hair, skin, and nail changes. These are some of the symptoms that women should not ignore, because thyroid problems in women occur at a higher rate than in men.

Yes, most of the thyroid problems in women and men can be chronic, but with proper diagnosis and ongoing medical treatment, they are totally manageable. But before proceeding with treatment, you must know which category you must be treated under: hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism.

Hormone replacement medication is a treatment for hypothyroidism, while surgery, anti-thyroid medications, and other options are involved to treat the patients with hyperthyroidism. Understanding these differences can help you recognise the warning signs early and take the initiative to protect and manage your health.

What Is the Thyroid, and How Does It Work?

The thyroid is a gland that secretes the hormones that control the speed of the metabolism, through which the consumed food is converted into energy. This butterfly-shaped gland is located in front of the neck and right below the adam’s apple. Problems occur when it does not produce enough hormones or when it overproduces hormones.

Why does the thyroid happen in females?

Several factors affect the thyroid function in women, and some of them are given below:

• Hormonal fluctuations: Hormonal levels can change due to puberty, pregnancy, and menopause, and these can cause thyroid gland dysfunction.
• Genetic factors and autoimmune disease: Women are more exposed to autoimmune diseases that attack the thyroid gland and permanently disrupt the hormone production. Hashimoto’s thyroiditis is an autoimmune disease that causes hypothyroidism.
• Iodine deficiency: Iron is necessary for the production of thyroid hormones; its deficiency can lead to improper thyroid function.
• Stress: It can imbalance the hormone levels, which can cause thyroid issues over time.

The Two Main Types: Hypothyroidism vs. Hyperthyroidism

Hypothyroidism

• Hypothyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland does not make enough hormones, leading to a slowdown of the bodily functions.
• The common symptoms include fatigue, dry skin, cold sensitivity, constipation, muscle weakness, slow heart rate, and weight gain.
• The causes of hypothyroidism include treatment of cancer, thyroid removal, Hashimoto’s disease, or hyperthyroidism treatment.

Hyperthyroidism

• Hyperthyroidism happens when the thyroid gland produces too much of the hormones.
• Some of the common symptoms include rapid heartbeat, unexpected weight loss, anxiety, tremors, and heat intolerance.
• It can be caused by genetics, bacterial infection, type 1 diabetes, medications, rheumatoid arthritis, or Graves’ disease.

Other Thyroid Conditions

Thyroid nodules

• The nodules are the lumps or growths which can be fluid filled or solid. Most of them are benign, while some can be cancerous.
• They can be identified through ultrasound scans or thyroid scans.

Goitre

• The thyroid gland can become enlarged due to iron deficiency or autoimmune diseases.
• It causes difficulty in breathing and swallowing and hence has to be removed surgically.

Thyroiditis

• It is the temporary inflammation of the thyroid gland that can cause both hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism.

What are early warning signs of thyroid problems in females? 

The early warning signs are often ignored and mistaken for stress, ageing, lifestyle or fatigue. The common early warning signs include the following:

• Weight gain or loss: The low levels of thyroid hormones can cause weight gain, while high hormone levels cause weight loss.
• Weakness and fatigue: The high thyroid levels (hyperthyroidism) cause energy loss and weakness.
• Heat or cold sensitivity: People with hypothyroidism are sensitive to cold, while hyperthyroid patients experience intolerance towards heat.
• Anxiety: Experiencing mood swings, stress, anxiety, and tremors is common for people suffering with thyroid.
• Irregular periods: The thyroid gland controls the reproductive system, and if there are fluctuations in hormonal levels, it can lead to irregular periods.
• Sleep disruptions and insomnia: Hyperthyroidism can lead to trouble in sleep due to anxiety and overstimulation, while poor sleep quality, shorter sleep span or prolonged sleep onset can be caused by hypothyroidism.

The 19 Signs of Thyroid Problems in Females

The symptoms of thyroid problems in women often overlap with those of other health conditions, leading to misdiagnosis or undiagnosis. To help you understand, here are the 19 common symptoms indicating a thyroid dysfunction:

Common Symptoms

1. Neck swelling

• Swelling can be observed at the base of the front of the neck. It can cause hoarseness in voice and difficulty in swallowing.
• Do not self-prescribe the medication, and consult a doctor to schedule an ultrasound if suggested.

2. Hair loss and thinning

• You can observe hair thinning across the scalp and the eyebrows.
• Consume foods rich in zinc, iron and biotin to reduce the hairloss and consult a doctor if the hairfall worsens.

3. Muscle and joint pains

• Pain, stiffness or weakness of muscles can be experienced, especially in the hips and shoulders.
• Performing stretching exercises and other activities that stabilise your joint mobility can be helpful.

4. Skin discoloration

• A yellowish tint or redness can be observed.
• Scheduling a check-up and getting treatment from the doctor can resolve this issue.

5. Change in taste

• A metallic taste and change in sense of smell can be observed.
• Staying hydrated and maintaining oral hygiene can balance the symptoms.

6. Voice change

• Hoarseness and a deeper voice can be experienced.
• Drinking warm water and using a humidifier can prevent dryness.

Specific for hyperthyroidism

7. Loose stools

• Hyperthyroidism can cause frequent bowel movements due to the increased body’s metabolism.
• Avoiding spicy foods, processed foods and dairy foods, and switching to a bland diet can manage the condition.

8. Hand tremors

• The excess hormone production can stimulate the nervous system, causing shivering of hands.
• Calming and relaxing yourself is the best way to deal with it.

 

Specific for hypothyroidism

9. Dry, itchy or flaky skin

• The slowed metabolic rate makes the skin lose its moisture, leading to dryness, lowered sweat production and elasticity.
• Switching to a non-fragrant, ceramide-based heavy moisturiser can help manage dryness.

10. Brittle nails

• The nails can break, split, peel or grow with deep vertical ridges due to the disruption in the body’s metabolism.
• Using gloves and keeping nails short can prevent brittle nails.

11. Brain fog

• The hypothyroid people face brain fog due to the decrease in the metabolism, and the brain’s activity slows down because memory and concentration require energy.
• Using notes and planners can help you with the cognitive function.

12. Puffy face

• The fluid retention leads to puffiness around the face and the eyes, especially in the morning.
• Avoiding high-sodium-containing foods before sleeping, using an elevated pillow and using cold compresses for the face and eyes can reduce the swelling.

13. Hand numbness and tingling

• Tingling and numbness sensations can be experienced due to the slowed body metabolism.
• Performing mild relaxation hand exercises and avoiding repetitive hand activities can help you manage.

14. Muscle cramps

• The hormonal imbalances can cause muscle cramps and muscle stiffness.
• Taking a diet containing calcium, potassium and magnesium can improve the muscle function.

15. High blood pressure

• The blood vessels lose flexibility and become stiffer, leading to a rise in blood pressure.
• Reducing stress and consuming potassium-containing foods, leafy vegetables and grains can help you control it.

16. Constipation

• As the metabolic rate of the body slows down, the bowel movement slows down, leading to constipation.
• Vegetables, grains, beans and fruits are rich in fibre, which can improve gut motility.

17. Enlarged tongue

• The low hormone levels can cause fluid retention, leading to a slight bulging of the tongue.
• Staying hydrated and consulting a doctor can resolve the issue.

18. Reduced sweating

• Hypothyroidism causes a decrease in the activity of the sweat glands, which can reduce sweating.
• Drinking plenty of water and avoiding overheated environments can help you.

19. Cracked heels

• The dryness causes cracks and thickened skin.
• Using a gentle exfoliator and using socks can reduce the dryness.

 

Why Self-Diagnosing Is Risky

The most common thyroid side effects are fatigue, weight gain, anxiety, hair loss and body aches, which are often confused with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), menopause, chronic stress, chronic fatigue or nutritional deficiencies.

Hence, self-diagnosing can make it difficult to find the actual root cause, leading many people to overlook thyroid issues. Make sure you always consult a doctor to prevent complications in health conditions.

Weight Management With Thyroid

Hyperthyroidism causes weight loss, while hypothyroidism causes weight gain, and managing a stable weight is difficult with these conditions.

The below are some tips to manage the weight:

For hyperthyroidism:

• Concentrate on nutrient-dense and frequent meals to keep up with the fast metabolism.
• Perform restorative and calming exercises like yoga instead of cardio.
• Prioritise protein intake to protect your muscle mass.

For hypothyroidism:

• Consume fibre- and protein-rich foods to tackle the constipation.
• Avoid high-intensity workouts; instead, opt for low-impact exercises.
• Reduce consuming processed and high-sodium foods to prevent fluid retention.
• Drink plenty of water.

Age and Its Relation to Thyroid

The thyroid function can change with age in the women due to the hormonal imbalance, where an increased risk has been observed in the older women.

Between 20s and 30s

• The autoimmune diseases like Hashimoto’s disease and Graves’ disease cause hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism, respectively.

Between 30s and 40s

• Women in pregnancy and postpartum can experience thyroid issues. After the pregnancy, the women can develop a condition called postpartum thyroiditis.
• A two-phase pattern is followed, including hyperthyroidism at the first 6 months and hypothyroidism between 4 and 8 months.
• This condition can be temporary or become permanent based on the previous history of previous postpartum thyroiditis or autoimmune disorders.

Between 40s and 50s

• This is the age of menopause, and the thyroid problems are more common in women over 40.
• Many women experience hormonal imbalances that cause symptoms such as brain fog, anxiety, weight gain, and improper sleep.
• These symptoms are the result of an underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism).

Above 60 years

• Women who meet these criteria are at severe risk of thyroid disease due to their immune system, hormonal imbalances, and autoimmune conditions.
• Hypothyroidism is most common in the older women.

Who is at Risk: Does Thyroid Affect Only Women?

The thyroid does not only affect women but also affects men, though men are diagnosed with thyroid issues significantly less than women due to differences in genetics and the autoimmune system. Hence, women are at more risk compared to men.

These are some of the factors that can possibly cause thyroid:

• Age: Women over 60 are at more risk due to hormonal imbalance.
• Family history: Parents, siblings or relatives with thyroid disease can increase the chances of your thyroid risk.
• Pregnancy: The hormonal changes during pregnancy can cause thyroid issues.
• Medications: Particular medications can interfere with thyroid hormone production, causing hormone fluctuations.
• Chemotherapy: The radiation can damage the thyroid gland.
• Autoimmune diseases: The autoimmune diseases like type 1 diabetes, coeliac disease, lupus and arthritis can increase the chance of thyroid risks.

Why Do Thyroid Problems Affect Women More Than Men?

• Women contain XX chromosomes, while men have XY chromosomes.
• The X chromosomes contain a large number of genes that are involved in the immune system.
• One of the X chromosomes in females is silenced to avoid the duplication of protein or signal production.
• If the X chromosome is not silenced properly, then leakage occurs.
• The silenced chromosome will now start producing proteins which can directly affect the immune system.
• In return, the immune system attacks the thyroid gland, leading to Hashimoto’s disease and Graves’ disease.

How Are Thyroid Disorders Diagnosed?

Usually blood tests and imaging tests can detect thyroid disease, while the combination of both is generally prescribed by the doctors to find the type of thyroid.

The blood tests include:

• TSH: High TSH levels show hypothyroidism, while a low TSH level means hyperthyroidism.
• T4: A high blood level of T4 means hyperthyroidism, and a low blood level of T4 means hypothyroidism. But these levels do not always indicate the presence of thyroid disease, such as in the case of arthritis, asthma and skin conditions.
• T3: If the results after performing the T4 test are unclear for hyperthyroidism, then T3 will be performed.
• Antibody test: This test can identify Hashimoto’s disease and Graves’ disease.

The diagnostic tests are:

• Thyroid scan: The characteristics, like the shape, structure and position of the thyroid gland, can be identified through a thyroid scan. The test uses a small amount of radioactive tracer to identify the thyroid nodules or hyperthyroidism. This test will not be performed on pregnant or breastfeeding women.
• Ultrasound scan: Thyroid nodules will be analysed through the scan to determine the presence of any cancerous nodules.

Treatment Options and Management

The treatment for thyroid depends on the type of thyroid disease and the severity of symptoms.

Treatment for hyperthyroidism

• Anti-thyroid medications: These medications slow down the metabolic activity of the thyroid gland. Eg: Methimazole and propylthiouracil
• Beta blockers: They control the heart rate, tremors and anxiety but do not control hormonal levels.
• Radioactive iodine: often radioactive iodine is given orally, which will be absorbed by the overactive thyroid cell. This causes them to shrink, reducing the production of thyroid hormones.
• Surgery: Thyroidectomy is a procedure where a part of the thyroid gland is removed in case of cancer or large goitre.

Treatment for hypothyroidism

• Thyroid hormone replacement therapy can restore the normal function of hormones when the body does not produce enough thyroid hormones.
• The treatment involves taking medications for the lifetime.

Note: Never take medications on your own, and always use the medications when prescribed by a doctor.

Can Thyroid Problems Cause Cancer?

Yes, thyroid problems can cause cancer risk, while the causes can be due to radiation exposure, genetics, gender and age.

• The symptoms include voice hoarseness, neck swelling and breathing issues.
• The risk of thyroid cancer is higher in obese people.
• Most of the thyroid cancers are benign, but few of them are malignant.
• It can be diagnosed through blood tests, imaging scans and biopsy.
• It can be treated through chemotherapy, hormone therapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapy or radioiodine therapy.

Concerned About Thyroid Problems? Consult Our Specialists

Thyroid problems can affect women’s health at different stages of life. Recognizing the signs early and getting the right medical guidance can help you manage thyroid conditions effectively. Contact Kanaga Hospitals to consult our medical team and learn about the appropriate evaluation and treatment options for your needs. Kanaga Hospitals, Kovur, Chennai | 7-131, Kundrathur Main Rd, Kovur, Mangadu, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600128 | 9500135319

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I check my thyroid levels at home?

Yes, you can check thyroid levels at your home either by diagnostic kits or by physical examination. While you can check the swelling and other visible signs through physical examination, it does not confirm thyroid disease.

2. Is the thyroid manageable, and can I live a normal life?

Yes, you can live a normal life with thyroid disease, because it is mostly treatable and manageable.

3. Is thyroid disease chronic for everyone, or can it be temporary?

Some of the thyroid conditions are temporary, while some are chronic. The people with autoimmune conditions like Hashimoto’s disease or Graves’ disease require lifelong treatment, while subacute thyroiditis or postpartum thyroiditis are temporary.

4. Can thyroid conditions affect pregnant women and pregnancy?

Yes, the thyroid can affect the pregnant woman and pregnancy due to the fluctuations of hormone levels during this time.

5. Are there other life-threatening risks associated with thyroid disorders?

Severe or untreated thyroid disease can cause life-threatening risks through extreme medical emergencies, including myxedema coma and  thyroid storm.

6. What are the thyroid symptoms for women?

The common thyroid disease symptoms include fatigue, heat or cold sensitivity, dry skin, brain fog, hair thinning, constipation and muscle pains.

7. How to control the thyroid in females?

Thyroid can be controlled using hormone replacement therapy for women with hypothyroidism and using anti-thyroid medications, beta blockers, or surgery for hyperthyroid women.

8. Can thyroid problems cause weight loss in women?

Yes, thyroid problems cause weight loss in women when the thyroid is overactive (hyperthyroidism).

 

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