At least, that’s what I thought…
Hypo = weight gain
Hyper = weight loss
When I was first diagnosed with hyperthyroidism, I thought it was just about feeling tired and weight loss.
Then thyroid meds – then labs and numbers normalize.
Then gaining weight.
Boy, was I wrong!
Over the years, I’ve learned that this tiny gland can cause a staggering array of symptoms, some of which seem completely unrelated.
Here’s a comprehensive list of 35 unexpected signs and symptoms that might indicate your thyroid is overactive or underperforming:
- Blurry vision: Your thyroid can affect your eyes in ways you might not expect.
- Swollen tongue: That uncomfortable, fat tongue feeling isn’t in your head.
- Thinning outer eyebrows: Notice your eyebrows disappearing at the edges? Blame your thyroid.
- Super dry eyes: Especially noticeable around your menstrual cycle.
- Depth perception issues: Bumping into doorframes or stubbing toes more often? It’s not just clumsiness.
- Peeling fingertips: Those flaky fingertips could be more than just dry skin.
- Wavy nail ridges: Your nails might be sending you a message about your thyroid health.
- Vertigo and dizziness: That spinning sensation could be related to your thyroid function.
- Deep palm lines: What palm readers love might actually be a sign of chronically dry hands.
- Numbness in hands or arms: Waking up to tingling limbs? Your thyroid might be the culprit.
- Leg hair loss: An unexpected (and not entirely unwelcome) symptom for some.
- Itchy legs: That maddening itch might not be dry skin or allergies after all.
- Insomnia despite exhaustion: The paradox of being incredibly tired but unable to sleep.
- Yellowing skin: Particularly noticeable on palms and soles of feet.
- Joint pain: Especially in large joints like shoulders, hips, and knees.
- Flaky nails: Not just brittle, but peeling off in sheets.
- Muted sense of smell: Your nose might not be as sharp as it used to be.
- Hives: Random, itchy outbreaks that aren’t allergy-related.
- Frequent nighttime urination: Getting up multiple times a night? It’s not just your bladder.
- Plantar fasciitis: That persistent heel pain could be thyroid-related.
- Ear issues: From ringing to weird popping noises, your ears might be affected too.
- Soapy burps: Yes, even your burps can be affected by your thyroid!
- Constipation: Sluggish thyroid often means a sluggish digestive system.
- Anxiety: Mood changes are common with thyroid issues.
- Inattentiveness: Having trouble focusing? Your thyroid might be to blame.
- Leg cramps: Those painful muscle spasms could be thyroid-related.
- Choking feeling in throat: That lump-in-your-throat sensation might not be just anxiety.
- Loss of libido: Your sex drive can take a hit with hypothyroidism.
- Irregular periods: From heavy flows to missing periods altogether.
- Pronounced lines on palms: Often mistaken for a sign of longevity in palm reading!
- Depression: Unexplained sadness or mood changes can be thyroid-related.
- Low body temperature: Always feeling cold? Your thyroid regulates body temperature.
- Changes in prescription needs: Frequent changes in eyeglass prescriptions could be a sign.
- Snoring: New or increased snoring might be related to thyroid issues.
- Reflux: Stubborn acid reflux that doesn’t respond to usual treatments could be thyroid-related.
Remember, these symptoms can vary greatly from person to person, and many can overlap with other conditions.
It’s crucial to work with a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Hypothyroidism is complex, but understanding these lesser-known symptoms can help you advocate for your health and get the care you need.
Have you experienced any of these surprising symptoms? Share your story in the comments below.
