Sep 12, 2025

Early symptoms of thyroid issues you should not ignore

Aanya Mehta

Digestive Issues

Slower digestion, constipation, bloating often accompany hypothyroidism. Hyperthyroidism can cause more frequent bowel movements or loose stools.

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Fatigue and Sluggishness

Feeling tired all the time, even after proper rest, is one of the earliest signs of thyroid dysfunction, especially hypothyroidism. It often comes with mental fog and low motivation.

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Sensitivity to Cold and Heat

If you always feel cold while others are comfortable, hypothyroidism could be the cause. Conversely, feeling overly hot, sweating excessively, or being intolerant of warm environments may suggest hyperthyroidism.

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Irregular Heart Rate and Palpitations

An unusually fast, pounding heart or feeling your pulse racing (especially with hyperthyroidism) can be a warning sign. Slow heart rate may appear in hypothyroidism.

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Mood Changes and Mental Fog

Mood swings, anxiety, irritability, depression, or trouble concentrating (“brain fog”) are common when thyroid hormones are out of balance.

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Irregular Heart Rate and Palpitations

An unusually fast, pounding heart or feeling your pulse racing (especially with hyperthyroidism) can be a warning sign. Slow heart rate may appear in hypothyroidism.

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Changes in Skin, Hair and Nails

Dry, rough, or pale skin, thinning hair or brittle hair and nails are often early signs of low thyroid hormone levels. Hyperthyroidism, on the other hand, may cause thinning skin or excessive sweating.

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Unexplained Weight Changes

Sudden unexplained weight gain may suggest underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism), while unexpected weight loss despite normal or increased appetite can point to overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism).

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Goitre

A visible swelling at the base of the neck (goitre) or feeling pressure when swallowing or breathing may indicate thyroid enlargement. If you notice multiple symptoms, or symptoms worsen or don’t improve, consult a healthcare provider and get thyroid function tests (TSH, T3, T4).

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