All About the Thyroid - How to Know When it’s Out of Balance

PregnancyHormonal Imbalances
Written By Angela Sinnett
 

The thyroid is a small but mighty butterfly-shaped endocrine gland located in the lower front of the neck.

This vital gland is responsible for producing hormones that help the body use energy, stay warm, and keep the brain, heart, muscles, and other organs working properly. The thyroid hormones are closely tied to metabolism function. Thyroid hormone imbalances are more common in women - about 1 in 8 women are affected. The two imbalances that can occur are hyperthyroidism (increased levels of thyroid hormone) and hypothyroidism (decreased levels of thyroid hormones). 1

Common Symptoms of Hyperthyroidism 

  • Larger appetite 

  • Sudden weight loss

  • Fast or uneven heartbeat 

  • Anxiety or nervousness

  • Sweating 

  • Changes in period 

  • Changes in bowel movement 

  • Trouble sleeping 

  • Thin, brittle hair 

Common Symptoms of Hypothyroidism

  • Cold feet 

  • Easily tired 

  • Dry skin 

  • Constipation 

  • Forgetfulness 

  • Depression 

  • Weight gain 

  • Increased cholesterol levels 

  • Thinning hair

If you experience several symptoms of hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism, a naturopathic or functional medicine doctor can help diagnose you. Your doctor will test your thyroid hormone levels in one or several different ways, including: 

  • TSH test

  • T4 Test 

  • T3 test

  • Reverse T3

  • Thyroid antibody test

Check out our next blog to learn more details on each test. 

1 How Do I Know if I Have a Thyroid Problem? (2017, March 29). WebMD. https://www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/do-i-have-thyroid-problem

 
Angela Sinnett
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