Hypothyroidism: symptoms in women and men, facial signs

People often attribute constant fatigue and extra pounds to age and stress. In fact, this may be caused by hypothyroidism — a condition in which the thyroid gland in the neck does not produce enough hormones. Symptoms appear gradually and remain unnoticed for months.

What hypothyroidism is and why symptoms occur

The thyroid gland is a small butterfly-shaped gland at the front of the neck. Its hormones control how the body uses energy and affect breathing, heart rate, weight, digestion, and mood. Without enough hormones, many body functions slow down. The main cause is the autoimmune disease Hashimoto's, in which the immune system attacks the gland. Hashimoto's is more common in women and usually begins between the ages of 30 and 50. Other causes: thyroiditis, surgery or radiation therapy to the neck, treatment for overactive thyroid function, rarely iodine deficiency, and certain medications. The risk is higher in women, people over 60, those with a family history of thyroid disease, recent pregnancy, type 1 diabetes, and other autoimmune conditions.

Hypothyroidism symptoms in women

Signs of hypothyroidism in women include pronounced fatigue, cold intolerance, weight gain, constipation, difficulty concentrating, low mood or depression, dry skin, dry and thinning hair, and a hoarse voice. Regarding the menstrual cycle — heavy or irregular periods and fertility problems. Symptoms develop slowly and often go unnoticed.

Hypothyroidism in men: how it manifests

Hashimoto's is more common in women, but anyone can develop it. In addition to the general symptoms — fatigue, cold intolerance, weight gain, constipation, dry skin, and hair loss — decreased libido and erectile dysfunction are possible. These signs are nonspecific and are often attributed to overwork.

How hypothyroidism changes the face and appearance

Facial signs are one of the characteristic manifestations. The face becomes puffy, and periorbital edema appears. The lips and tongue enlarge, and tooth marks are visible along the sides of the tongue. Due to swelling of the nasal mucosa, nasal breathing is difficult, and due to swelling of the vocal cords, the voice becomes hoarse. Hearing impairment, yellowing of the skin due to hypercarotenemia, brittle nails, and hair loss on the head and eyebrows are possible.

Autoimmune and secondary hypothyroidism: features of symptoms

Autoimmune hypothyroidism (Hashimoto's thyroiditis) is the most common form. Its symptoms are the same fatigue, cold intolerance, and dry skin, but a goiter often accompanies them: an enlarged thyroid gland that makes the neck look swollen and sometimes makes it difficult to breathe or swallow. Secondary, or central, hypothyroidism is associated with impaired pituitary function and reduced production of thyrotropin; the picture consists of a deficiency of thyroid hormones and symptoms of the underlying disease.

Anemia, arrhythmia, and other complications: when to see a doctor

Hypothyroidism can involve anemia — normochromic, iron deficiency, macrocytic, or B12 deficiency. On the part of the heart, bradycardia, hypotension, ECG changes, and in rare cases paroxysmal tachycardia are possible. Without treatment or with an incorrect dose, the risk of heart disease, including coronary artery disease and heart failure, and bone problems, including osteoporosis, increases. Diagnosis includes asking about symptoms and family history, examining the neck, blood tests for TSH and T4, and if necessary T3, thyroid antibodies, ultrasound, and other studies. For such complaints, people see a doctor, who will refer them to a specialist if necessary. See a doctor if several of these signs persist and worsen over time.

• Pronounced fatigue, cold intolerance, and weight gain without changes in diet
• Puffy face, hoarse voice, dry skin, and hair loss
• Heavy or irregular periods, fertility problems
• Constipation, low mood, difficulty concentrating

This condition on its own is not a reason to call an ambulance; 103 or 112 — if myxedema coma is suspected, a rare life-threatening complication of severe hypothyroidism (more often in older adults).

This material is for reference and does not replace a doctor's consultation: if you recognize yourself in the description, start with a conversation with a doctor, who will refer you to a specialist if necessary, rather than with self-diagnosis.

This content is for reference and does not replace a doctor's consultation. Medical disclaimer