You're eating regular home-cooked meals, not consuming much processed food, yet your weight keeps increasing. Hair loss has become a companion. Is your mood also becoming a bit irritable these days? Don't dismiss these issues as mental stress or work pressure. Rather, behind all these symptoms could be a small gland in the body, which we know as the thyroid.
According to specialist doctors, the thyroid works like the body's master control switch. Thyroid hormones influence metabolism, the body's energy levels, body temperature, and even brain function. When the thyroid gland doesn't function properly, various problems arise in the body.
What effects does thyroid hormone imbalance have on the body?
Weight gain
When the thyroid gland doesn't function, it's called hypothyroidism. In this case, the body's metabolic rate decreases significantly. As a result, calories aren't burned properly. This causes weight to increase at an excessive rate. Even eating healthy food doesn't bring relief. If weight continues to increase despite eating less and exercising regularly, then it should be understood that the matter isn't quite normal. In that case, necessary blood tests should be done after consulting a doctor to see if there's a thyroid problem.
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Increased hair loss
Hair health is closely linked to thyroid hormones. This affects the hair growth cycle. When hormone levels fluctuate, hair follicles become weak. As a result, excessive hair loss problems appear. If this issue is neglected, hair becomes thin, and baldness may appear on the head. Continuous hair loss, brittle nails, and reduced rate of new hair growth can all be symptoms of thyroid problems. However, nutritional deficiency can also cause these problems alongside thyroid issues. Therefore, consulting a doctor is important.
Mood becoming irritable
When the thyroid gland doesn't function properly, it affects mental health. Low thyroid levels can cause fatigue, persistent bad mood, and anxiety. As a result, you feel depressed and burnt out. Your mood remains irritable all the time, and misunderstandings can occur. You may get into trouble with your partner.
On the other hand, overactive thyroid hyperthyroidism can cause restlessness, irritation, disruption in thinking processes, or sleep disturbances. In both cases, mental health is affected.
Which subtle matters need attention?
If you experience excessive cold sensitivity, constipation, dry skin, irregular periods, heart palpitations, or feeling tired with little exertion, don't ignore these issues. These small changes can actually be symptoms of thyroid problems.
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What to do if thyroid symptoms appear?
If thyroid symptoms appear, it's essential to first test TSH, T3, and T4 levels in the blood. If symptoms like excessive fatigue, rapid weight gain or loss, hair loss, swelling near the throat, excessive cold or heat sensitivity appear, consult a doctor. Starting or stopping medication on your own is dangerous. According to test reports, doctors prescribe medication to maintain proper hormone levels. Additionally, regular exercise, adequate sleep, stress reduction, and consuming a balanced diet rich in iodine are necessary. With regular follow-up, it's possible to keep the thyroid under control.
