A thyroid dysfunction can manifest itself in many different ways.
What symptoms indicate the disease.
Tiredness, weight gain and constant cold are among the typical signs of a thyroid malfunction.
However, since the thyroid is a very complex organ, symptoms such as high blood pressure and sudden weight loss can also indicate a thyroid disorder.
If the butterfly-shaped organ goes haywire, this can manifest itself in very different ways, depending on whether it is overactive or underactive.
In most cases, however, the symptoms can be treated well.
Nevertheless, in certain cases those affected should consult a doctor in good time.
A self-test shows how your thyroid is doing.
Thyroid Self-Test: Twelve questions for initial assessment
The thyroid is the main control center in the body for the regulation of hormones.
The organ produces the two hormones thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyranine (T3), which take on crucial functions in metabolism.
Thyroid hormones take over essential growth processes and increase the basal metabolic rate and energy consumption of the entire organism.
If the production of these hormones gets out of balance, it can lead to a variety of problems.
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An enlarged thyroid can indicate a malfunction (symbol image).
© Panthermedia / Imago
Doctors generally distinguish between an overactive and underactive thyroid.
If the thyroid gland is overactive, too many thyroid hormones get into the body.
In the case of hypothyroidism, on the other hand, the thyroid produces too few hormones, and the metabolism slows down.
These diseases can be caused by hormonal malfunctions as well as changes in the organ itself.
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Thyroid self-test: If you see these signs, you should consult a doctor
Since thyroid dysfunction is a very complex disease, the symptoms can vary from patient to patient, according to the Institute for Quality and Efficiency in Health Care (IQWiG).
It is therefore not absolutely necessary to answer all questions with "yes".
Especially in older people who suffer from a thyroid disease, only a few symptoms are often noticeable.
The following questions can provide information about the health of the thyroid gland:
Have you noticed any changes in your eating habits lately?
For example, do you feel an increased appetite or has your appetite decreased?
Have you lost or gained weight without changing your eating habits?
Do you suffer from swallowing difficulties or a feeling of pressure in the throat area when drinking and eating?
Is your blood pressure sometimes elevated for no apparent reason, or do you sometimes have a racing heart?
Do you regularly suffer from digestive problems such as constipation or diarrhea for no apparent reason?
Do you tend to dry skin, brittle fingernails and hair loss?
Do you feel mentally tense, tired, listless or depressed?
Have you had problems sleeping, nervousness, difficulty concentrating and restlessness more often lately?
Do you suffer from heat waves or chills more often than usual?
Does your voice sound rough or hoarse?
Has your sexual interest decreased or do you suffer from menstrual disorders?
Do you have a family history of hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism?
If you suffer from symptoms that are difficult to classify or if you notice an enlargement of the thyroid gland, you should definitely have this checked out.
The self-test only provides initial information, but does not replace a visit to a specialist.
This article only contains general information on the respective health topic and is therefore not intended for self-diagnosis, treatment or medication. In no way does it replace a visit to the doctor. Unfortunately, our editors are not allowed to answer individual questions about clinical pictures.
List of rubrics: © Panthermedia / Imago
