La tiroides es una glándula en forma de mariposa ubicada en la base del cuello. Es responsable de producir hormonas vitales que regulan varias funciones corporales. Estas hormonas tiroideas son esenciales para el metabolismo, así como para el crecimiento y desarrollo integral del cuerpo.
Una tiroides hiperactiva causa hipertiroidismo, mientras que una tiroides hipoactiva conduce al hipotiroidismo. Ambas condiciones pueden tener un impacto significativo en la salud y el bienestar de una persona, por lo que es importante estar alerta a los posibles signos de disfunción de la glándula tiroidea.
A continuación, se presentan diez signos que pueden indicar problemas tiroideos y que deben ser evaluados más a fondo por un médico si se observan:
Changes in Body Weight
The body’s metabolic rate is closely related to the action of the thyroid. An unexplained change in body weight can indicate a thyroid problem. Weight gain without a change in appetite, exercise regimen, and stress levels is symptomatic of reduced thyroid hormone production. On the other hand, weight loss without apparent reason can be caused by an excess production of thyroid hormones. The former condition, hypothyroidism, is much more commonly observed, especially in women. In any case, if there is an unexpected change in an individual’s body weight, he or she should examine their thyroid hormone levels.
Extreme Mood Swings
Individuals with thyroid dysfunction may also experience significant changes in their behavior and attitude. Those with hypothyroidism, which occurs when thyroid hormone levels are decreased, commonly experience depression, apathy, cognitive dysfunction, or psychomotor retardation. On the other hand, hyperthyroidism, characterized by an overproduction of thyroid hormones, can cause anxiety, restlessness, and irritability. The body is constantly in overdrive, making individuals nervous and unable to relax.