These are the most common symptoms you may have if you have an underactive thyroid gland.
Symptoms of Hypothyroidism in Adults
The most common hypothyroid symptoms are fatigue, cold intolerance, constipation, slower metabolism, and dry skin, while more surprising signs may be a slower heart rate, joint and muscle pain, and dry or puffy skin, says Gregory Dodell, MD, an assistant clinical professor of medicine, endocrinology, diabetes, and bone disease at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai in New York City. Some people might experience one symptom but not the others. Adults with hypothyroidism may have any of the following signs and symptoms:
High cholesterol
Puffy face
Weight gain
Fatigue
Sensitivity to cold
Constipation
Slowed heart rate
Memory decline
Stiff, swollen, or achy joints
Irregular or heavy periods
Muscle weakness, aches, stiffness, or tenderness
Hoarseness
Hypothyroidism Symptoms in Infants
Babies born without a thyroid gland will develop hypothyroidism while those born with a dysfunctional thyroid gland may develop the condition.
Thyroid function is typically screened at birth. Babies may not immediately have signs or symptoms of the condition, but when they do, they include:
Growth abnormalities
Yellowed whites of eyes or skin (jaundice)
Puffy skin
Constant sleepiness
Constipation
Signs of Hypothyroidism in Children and Teenagers
Like infants, children and teens are also at risk of hypothyroidism. Often, symptoms in this age group mimic those of adults.
In addition to the symptoms that occur in adults, signs of hypothyroidism in this age group include:
Cognitive delays
Short stature
Late development of permanent teeth
Delayed puberty
Weight Gain Is Often One of the First Signs of Hypothyroidism
Gradual weight gain is perhaps one of the first noticeable signs of hypothyroidism. This is related to a slower than normal metabolism. You may find losing weight more difficult, or perhaps you gain weight despite diet and exercise. On top of that, you may also feel bloated from hypothyroid-related constipation.
Fatigue That Persists May Signal Hypothyroidism
Excessive fatigue is another common symptom of hypothyroidism. You may feel extremely tired all the time, no matter how much sleep you get.
Habitual daytime naps or a constant need for caffeine may also be signs of excessive fatigue related to this condition (unfortunately, these practices can also make it more difficult to sleep at night).
Reproductive Changes in Women Could Mean You Have Hypothyroidism
Women are at an increased risk for developing thyroid disease. Women are also more likely to develop thyroid conditions after pregnancy and following menopause.
“Women may experience a change in their menstrual cycle if their thyroid function is off,” says Dr. Dodell. Not only might you experience irregularities in your cycle, but hypothyroidism may also cause periods that are much heavier than normal.
Women who are trying to conceive may have difficulties getting pregnant. “Therefore, women who are trying to get pregnant or are planning to try and get pregnant in the near future should have their thyroid levels checked,” Dodell explains. “We also monitor women who are being treated for hypothyroidism closely during pregnancy, since the dose of medication may need to be adjusted.”
Menopausal women may experience worsening symptoms.
Cold Intolerance Is a Symptom of Hypothyroidism
A slowed-down metabolism from hypothyroidism may also lower your body heat. This can make you more cold intolerant.
Depression and Hypothyroidism Are Comorbidities
A lack of adequate thyroid hormones can make you feel unusually depressed. Aside from feeling depressed, forgetfulness is also common in people with hypothyroidism.
