The thyroid is among the largest endocrine glands of the body. It is situated below the voice box or larynx. Signs of a thyroid problem are visible when the secretion of thyroid hormones is too less or too much.

Many people do not take the thyroid problems very seriously. You must read the signs of thyroid problem in your body so that the treatment can be given as soon as possible before it gets worse. Thyroid hormones regulate the metabolism rate in the body. Metabolism is a physical and chemical process that generates energy which is used by the cells in the body in order to grow, function and divide. During the development of our body in the womb the thyroid originates at the back of the throat. As the body develops it migrates towards the front of the neck before birth. Sometimes it may migrate too high to the back of the tongue or too far in the chest. These two conditions are very rare. The thyroid gland secretes two hormones called T3 and T4. The thyroid cells are the only ones in our body which are capable of absorbing iodine. They absorb iodine and combine it with amino acid called tyrosine and make T3 and T4. These hormones are released in the blood and they travel throughout the body and control the metabolism rate. The two disorders of thyroid gland are hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism. Hyperthyroidism is a condition when there is excess of thyroid hormone secretion. Hypothyroidism results when there is under secretion of thyroid hormone than the normal amount needed by the body.

Signs of thyroid a problem

Pain in muscles and joints, carpal and tendonitis problems

These are signs of hypothyroidism. There is usually pain in the muscles and joints. One may develop carpal tunnel or tarsal tunnel. Carpal tunnel develops in the hands and arms and tarsal tunnel develops in the legs. If this condition is left undiagnosed then it can worsen the condition. The best way to combat this is to consume iodine through your daily diet and take medical help.

Enlargement and discomfort in the neck

If you have a swelling in the neck then don’t just ignore it for sore throat. If you have difficulty in speaking, and your throat hurts when wearing neckties or turtle necks then this could indicate a thyroid problem. You can take a simple test at home to determine if you have a thyroid problem. At home view the area below the Adams apple and above the collar bone in the mirror. Tip your head back and watch this area. Drink water and watch your throat while you swallow the water. See if you find any bulges at your neck or any abnormal protruding. If you have difficulty in swallowing or see anything abnormal then you must consult the doctor immediately.

Changes in the skin and hair

The skin and hair are very vulnerable to thyroid disorders. This change in the skin and hair is the result of hypothyroidism. The hair becomes dry and brittle and they break off very easily. Skin loses on the moisture and becomes coarse, scaly and dry. There is also unusual hair loss on the head and on the eyebrows. The skin and hair become thin and fragile.

These are the most common and initial signs of thyroid problems. Other problems include constipation, bowel problems, irregular menstrual cycle, fertility problem, family history, fatigue depression and anxiety. If you see signs of a thyroid problem then it is best to consult a doctor immediately and take care of your life style.

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