What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Thyroid Malfunction?

• The thyroid is a gland located in the lower neck, wrapped around the windpipe, which regulates the body's metabolism. The gland produces hormones that are responsible for the way our bodies use the foods that we eat, according to the Hormone Foundation. Conditions such as hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism occur when the thyroid secretes too much or too little, respectively, of these hormones into the bloodstream. When the thyroid gland is not functioning properly, several symptoms may become apparent, although some patients may not experience all the symptoms of a thyroid disorder.
  
  

Fatigue

• Fatigue or sluggishness is a symptom of hypothyroidism, reports the Hormone Foundation. Hypothyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland is not functioning properly or is underactive in producing or secreting enough thyroid hormones.
  
  

Weight Changes

• Hyperthyroidism, or an overactive thyroid, may cause the body to lose weight, according to the Hormone Foundation. Weight loss that is unexplained may be caused by the condition, and may occur despite an increase in appetite, according to a USAToday article titled "Thyroid Disorders" on HealthScout.com.
  
  Conversely, weight gain may occur when the thyroid gland is underactive. The weight gain must be unexplained by diet or changes in an exercise routine.
  
  

Mood Changes

• Patients with an overactive thyroid gland may experience anxiety and panic attacks, states Thyroid Australia Ltd., a health support organization. Those suffering from an underactive thyroid may experience depression.
  
  

Bowel Disorders

• Individuals with hyperthyroidism may experience diarrhea, while those with an underactive thyroid that is not producing enough hormone may experience chronic constipation, reports Thyroid Australia.
  
  

Temperature Changes

• Underactive thyroid may cause the patient to feel cold and have a low basal temperature, according to Thyroid Australia. The cold feeling is more common in the hands and feet of patients who experience this symptom.
  
  Patients who have an overactive thyroid, on the other hand, experience hot flashes, excessive sweating and an intolerance of the heat, according to the organization.
  
  

Rapid Heartbeat

• Some hyperthyroid patients experience an accelerated heartbeat, reports the Hormone foundation. A fast pulse and irregular heartbeat may also be symptoms of a thyroid that is producing too much hormone.
  
  

Trembling or Shaking

• Patients may also experience trembling or shaking when the thyroid gland is making too much hormone, according to the Hormone Foundation.