Thyroid Symptoms in Women: What to look for, Risks, Solution

The thyroid gland is a butterfly-shaped gland located in the neck, just below Adam's apple. It is a part of the endocrine system, which regulates hormones in the body.

The primary function of the thyroid gland is to produce and secrete thyroid hormones, which play a crucial role in regulating metabolism, growth, and development in the body.

The thyroid gland produces two primary hormones, thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3), which are released into the bloodstream and transported to cells throughout the body. These hormones regulate a range of bodily functions, including heart rate, body temperature, digestion, and energy levels.

The thyroid gland's function is controlled by the pituitary gland, located at the base of the brain. The pituitary gland produces thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), which triggers the thyroid gland to produce and release thyroid hormones.

When the body needs more thyroid hormones, the pituitary gland releases more TSH, signaling the thyroid gland to produce more hormones.

The thyroid gland plays a crucial role in regulating metabolism, growth, and development, and when its function is compromised, it can lead to a range of symptoms that can significantly impact a woman's daily life.

Thyroid disease is a general and common term that is used to define any medical condition that prevents the thyroid gland from producing the appropriate amount of thyroid hormones. Thyroid gland either produces excessive amounts of thyroid hormone or too less. 

Women are more likely to develop thyroid problems than men because of the hormonal differences between the sexes. The thyroid gland is regulated by a complex interplay of hormones, and women have a more complex hormonal environment than men due to the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, and menopause.

The thyroid symptoms in women may differ depending upon the condition or type of thyroid disorder causing it. Several thyroid conditions may cause thyroid symptoms in women. The various causes resulting in symptoms of thyroid disease in females include the following,

Hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism, or an underactive thyroid, happens when the thyroid gland doesn't produce enough thyroid hormones. This decrease in thyroid hormone can cause the body's functions to slow down, including the metabolism process.

Some common causes of hypothyroidism are Hashimoto's disease, thyroiditis, iodine deficiency, certain hereditary conditions and the treatment for hyperthyroidism. 

Thyroid Symptoms in Women that Indicate Hypothyroidism

The various symptoms that may occur due to less production of thyroid hormone or hypothyroidism include the following,

1. Heavy menstrual bleeding 
2. Irregular periods
3. Fatigue
4. Weight gain 
5. Constipation 
6. Slow heart rate 
7. Memory issues 
8. Fertility problems
9. Experiencing muscle weakness
10. Hoarseness of voice 
11. An increase in blood cholesterol levels 

Hyperthyroidism

Hyperthyroidism is a type of thyroid condition in which the thyroid gland produces and secretes excessive amounts of thyroid hormone, leading to an overactive thyroid. As a result of hyperthyroidism, body functions such as heart rate and metabolism speed up.

Thyroid Symptoms in Women that Indicate Hyperthyroidism

Initially, the symptoms of hyperthyroidism may not be noticeable. However, the symptoms tend to appear gradually as a result of increased metabolism, which can lead to experiencing the following symptoms,

1. Palpitations (rapid heartbeat)
2. Loss of weight
3. Sleeping problems
4. Increased sensitivity to heat
5. Profuse sweating
6. Swollen and enlarged neck due to an enlarged thyroid gland (goitre)
7. Diarrhoea 
8. Feeling anxious 
9. Increased appetite 
10. Trembling hand and fingers
11. Menstrual changes  
12. Bulging eyes 
13. Brittle nails and hair 
14. Restlessness 
15. Thin and moist skin 

Hashimoto's Thyroiditis

Autoimmune disorders are a common cause of thyroid problems, and women are more likely to develop autoimmune disorders than men. 

Hashimoto's thyroiditis is a condition where the body's immune system attacks its thyroid tissue, leading to inflammation and gland damage. This is classified as an autoimmune disorder.

Although this condition can happen to anyone, it is commonly seen in middle-aged women. Hashimoto's thyroiditis may be caused due to excessive iodine intake, genetic factors, and radiation exposure. 

Thyroid Symptoms in Women that Indicate Hashimoto's Thyroiditis

The various thyroid symptoms in women that may be a sign of Hashimoto's thyroiditis include the following, 

1. Weight gain
2. Puffy face
3. Trouble getting pregnant
4. Menstrual irregularities 
5. Hair loss
6. Thin and brittle hair 
7. Dry skin 
8. Muscle weakness and pain 
9. Goitre 
10. Fatigue 
11. Intolerance to cold 
12. Tongue enlargement

Goitre

A goitre is a condition leading to neck swelling caused by an enlarged thyroid gland. The thyroid gland produces hormones, and goitre can occur due to the gland's overall enlargement or the growth of nodules.

The goitre may not affect thyroid function or can lead to an increase or decrease in thyroid hormone levels. Goitre may be caused due to hyperthyroidism, hypothyroidism, lack of iodine, thyroiditis, and thyroid cancer.

Thyroid Symptoms in Women that Indicate Goitre

The various symptoms of goitre that may occur include the following, 

1. Swelling in the front portion of the neck 
2. Hoarseness 
3. A persistent cough that doesn't go away 
4. Wheezing sound while breathing 
5. Trouble swallowing 
6. Difficulty in breathing 

Thyroid Cancer

Thyroid cancer is a type of cancer that begins in the cells of the thyroid gland, when the cells start multiplying and dividing abnormally and uncontrollably. Thyroid cancer in most instances is curable when its symptoms are acknowledged on time, leading to its accurate diagnosis and prompt treatment. 

Thyroid Symptoms in Women that Indicate Thyroid Cancer

Thyroid cancer may not produce noticeable signs or symptoms during its early stages. However, as cancer progresses and grows in size, it may cause various symptoms such as,

1. A lump or swelling in the neck
2. Neck and throat pain 
3. Trouble swallowing 
4. Hoarse voice 
5. The appearance of swollen lymph nodes in the neck

Upon experiencing any symptoms of thyroid disease, it is essential to get it diagnosed and initiate its treatment. Thyroid disorders are typically diagnosed through physical examination, medical history review, and laboratory tests.

The various tests that may be used for diagnosing thyroid disorders include the following, 

1. Physical examination: In a physical exam, the doctor will examine the neck for any signs of enlargement or nodules in the thyroid gland.
2. Blood tests: Blood tests can help measure thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) levels, free T4, and free T3. High TSH levels can indicate hypothyroidism, while low TSH levels can indicate hyperthyroidism.
3. Thyroid ultrasound: A thyroid ultrasound may be conducted to view any nodules or growths on the thyroid gland.
4. Radioactive iodine uptake test: The radioactive iodine uptake test involves swallowing a small amount of radioactive iodine, which collects in the thyroid gland.
   This helps determine if the thyroid is overactive or underactive. If the thyroid is overactive, it will absorb more of the radioactive iodine. If it is underactive, it will absorb less. This test helps the doctor diagnose thyroid problems and determine the appropriate treatment.
5. Thyroid scan: A thyroid scan involves injecting a small amount of radioactive material into the body and then taking pictures of the thyroid gland. This can help identify areas of overactivity or under activity in the thyroid gland.
6. Biopsy: If a nodule is found on the thyroid gland, the doctor may perform a biopsy to determine if the nodule or growth is cancerous or benign.

Upon experiencing thyroid symptoms and getting a diagnosis, the doctor will formulate a treatment plan if the doctor confirms a thyroid disorder during the diagnostic tests. 

The treatment options vary based on the severity of the disorder, the underlying cause, and the patient's overall health. The following are some of the treatment options available for thyroid disorders in females:

1. Medications: In many cases, medications are used to treat thyroid disorders. For hypothyroidism, patients may be prescribed synthetic thyroid hormone to replace the hormones their thyroid gland is not producing enough of.
   For hyperthyroidism, medications that reduce the production of thyroid hormones may be prescribed.
2. Radioactive iodine therapy: This treatment is used to treat hyperthyroidism by destroying some or all of the thyroid gland with radioactive iodine. This reduces the amount of thyroid hormone produced by the gland.
3. Surgery: In some cases, surgery may be necessary to remove part or all of the thyroid gland. This is often done if the gland is enlarged or if there are nodules or tumours present.

Several lifestyle changes can help manage thyroid disease. Some of these lifestyle changes include, 

1. Eating a healthy balanced diet
2. Exercising regularly
3. Managing stress effectively
4. Getting a proper good night of sleep
5. Avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption
6. Taking the medications as prescribed by the doctor

The thyroid gland plays a significant role in a woman's reproductive system. An imbalance in hormone levels due to an overactive or underactive thyroid can affect a woman's body.

It is essential to seek medical attention upon experiencing any symptoms of thyroid in women, as when left untreated, thyroid diseases may cause several risks and complications, such as, 

1. Effect on menstruation and puberty: Disorders of the thyroid gland can lead to abnormal puberty and menstruation timing, either early or late periods.
   Additionally, when thyroid hormone levels are too high or too low, it can cause menstrual periods to be exceptionally light or heavy, very irregular, or even absent altogether, known as amenorrhea.
2. Reproduction problems: When the thyroid gland is either overactive or underactive, it can also impact ovulation. Women with thyroid disorders may experience a lack of ovulation, preventing conception.
   Moreover, if a woman has an underactive thyroid, the risk of cyst development in the ovaries may increase. 
3. Problems during pregnancy and postpartum: Thyroid disorders can harm the mother and the foetus. A deficiency of thyroid hormone can lead to complications such as miscarriages, premature delivery, stillbirth, and postpartum haemorrhage. 
   On the other hand, an overactive thyroid during pregnancy may increase the severity of morning sickness. Women with thyroid problems during pregnancy may also risk developing postpartum thyroiditis.
4. Menopause: Thyroid disorders can cause early menopause before age 40 or in the early 40s. Some symptoms of an overactive thyroid may also be mistaken for early menopause symptoms, such as hot flashes, mood swings, inability to sleep, and lack of menstruation. 
   It is important to recognise these symptoms and get a proper diagnosis from a healthcare provider to determine whether it is due to thyroid disorders or early menopause.

It is important to see a doctor upon experiencing any of the below-mentioned symptoms of thyroid disorders, 

1. Swelling and enlargement of the neck
2. Any thyroid symptoms which are mentioned above
3. Thyroid symptoms in women who are trying to get pregnant
4. Upon developing a new lump, growth, or nodule on the thyroid
5. If you have a family history of thyroid disease, it is important to get screened for thyroid problems

To conclude, various factors, including hormonal imbalances, genetic factors, autoimmune disorders, iodine deficiency, radiation exposure, and certain medications, may cause thyroid symptoms in women. The symptoms of thyroid problems in females may vary depending on the type of thyroid disorder causing them. Hence, it is essential to consult a doctor to identify the underlying cause and develop a treatment plan for thyroid symptoms in women.

At HexaHealth, we provide specialised services for women with thyroid symptoms and diseases. Our experienced physicians and healthcare professionals work tirelessly to ensure each patient receives individualised attention and care. We understand that a diagnosis of thyroid disease can be overwhelming and stressful, so we provide comprehensive support to our patients throughout their treatment journey. In addition to providing the best possible care, we strive to make our services affordable and accessible to everyone. At HexaHealth, we believe that quality healthcare should be available to all, which is why we offer our services at affordable costs.

Suggested Reads

To read more on thyroid in females, visit the following links:

• Thyroid in Pregnancy
• Hyperthyroidism in Pregnancy