Is Your Thyroid the Problem? 9 Symptoms Women Constantly Ignore

Last week, while sipping my oat milk latte and scrolling through my favorite true crime podcast, I had a moment of revelation. I realized how many women—my friends, my clients—brush off common health symptoms, thinking they’re just part of life. Sound familiar? As someone who’s been through my own health struggles, I know that those nagging feelings can be signs of something bigger, especially when it comes to thyroid symptoms in women.

After leaving my high-pressure corporate job at 29, I decided to take charge of my health. I dove into my studies at the Institute for Integrative Nutrition and discovered many women might not connect their everyday issues to thyroid problems. I’ll share nine symptoms that might make you wonder if your thyroid is the culprit. It’s a topic far too important to ignore.

What is the Thyroid and Why Does It Matter?

The thyroid is a butterfly-shaped gland located in your neck that produces hormones regulating numerous bodily functions, including metabolism, energy levels, and mood. When it doesn’t work properly, it can lead to an array of symptoms that many women mistakenly attribute to aging or stress.

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2019 study published in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology found that women are five to eight times more likely than men to have thyroid dysfunction

. If you’re feeling off and can’t quite put your finger on it, your thyroid could be playing a role.

1. Unexplained Weight Changes

I remember sitting down for dinner one night, feeling defeated by the scale. No matter what I did, the numbers didn’t budge. If you’re noticing unexplained weight gain or loss, this could be linked to thyroid dysfunction. An underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism) can slow your metabolism, leading to weight gain, or the opposite can happen with an overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism).

Tip: Keep a food and mood journal for a week. Document everything you eat, how you feel, and your weight. This can help you spot trends that connect to your symptoms.

2. Chronic Fatigue

Though I adore my daughters, Lily and Mia, some days the thought of chasing after them felt like running a marathon. Constant tiredness is a common symptom of thyroid problems. If you feel excessively fatigued despite getting sleep, it’s time to dig deeper.

Studies suggest this chronic fatigue may be due to decreased energy production at the cellular level from thyroid hormone deficiency. It’s not just “life as a busy mom”—it could be more.

3. Dry Skin and Hair

One morning in the shower, I noticed my hair looked thinner and felt brittle. If your skin feels dry and your hair is falling out more than usual, these could also be indicators of thyroid issues. An underactive thyroid can disrupt the production of natural oils needed for healthy skin and hair.

Have you ever changed your skincare routine but found no improvement? It might not be your moisturizer—it could be your thyroid.

4. Cold Sensitivity

Living in Portland, it’s no surprise that chilly weather can take a toll on my body. One winter, I realized I was feeling colder than everyone else. If you find yourself bundling up when others are comfortable, this could be another sign. An underactive thyroid can affect your body’s ability to generate heat.

It’s like your internal thermostat stops working! But restoring a healthy thyroid level could help warm you back up.

5. Mood Swings and Irritability

Ever had a day when you snapped at your partner over something silly? I’ve been there! Major mood swings can be linked to hormonal imbalances, including those caused by thyroid dysfunction. Both hypo and hyperthyroidism can cause anxiety and emotional instability.

I see this pattern constantly as a certified health coach. Women often shrug these feelings off as “just part of life” instead of recognizing the symptom. It can feel overwhelming, but acknowledging it is crucial.

6. Irregular Menstrual Cycles

As someone who knows motherhood and ‘mom periods,’ I can vouch for the strange things our bodies can do. Women often notice irregularities during their cycles when the thyroid is involved. This might include unusually heavy periods, missed cycles, or painful cramping.

However, this symptom can vary widely, leading many to think it’s just typical hormonal fluctuations. Thyroid hormones play a crucial role in regulating menstrual cycles, so if your cycles are swinging wildly, don’t ignore it.

7. Constipation or Digestive Issues

We’re all familiar with that uncomfortable bloating, right? If you frequently experience constipation despite a healthy diet, your thyroid might be to blame. A sluggish digestive system often accompanies hypothyroidism, leading to frustrating bathroom experiences where nothing seems to flow.

Have you tried all the tricks in the book, from drinking more water to upping your fiber, and still feel stuck? It’s time to consider your thyroid’s involvement.

8. Difficulty Concentrating

After I left my corporate career, focusing became a challenge. If you’re struggling with brain fog and can’t seem to organize your thoughts, you’re not alone. A common symptom of both hypo and hyperthyroidism is brain fog, affecting cognitive functions like concentration and memory.

This doesn’t have to be just settling into the chaos of family life. It could be a sign worth investigating.

9. Swelling in the Neck

Sometimes, while admiring my reflection, I think, “Is that a new double chin?” But if you notice swelling in your neck, it can indicate that your thyroid is enlarged, known as a goiter. This can happen with both hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism.

If you’ve seen any changes in your neck shape or size, don’t brush it off as just weight gain. It’s worth mentioning to your health care provider.

What to Do If You Suspect Thyroid Issues

If you resonate with several of these symptoms, don’t panic. Consulting your healthcare provider is essential. They can order blood tests to check your thyroid hormone levels, typically measuring TSH (thyroid-stimulating hormone), T3, and T4. That’s how they accurately determine if your thyroid function is off.

Also, consider working with a health coach like me! We can collaborate on lifestyle changes to improve your overall well-being while addressing your thyroid.

Final Thoughts

Taking charge of your health involves recognizing what’s normal for your body and what isn’t. You don’t have to have all the answers, but knowing the signs of thyroid symptoms in women can empower you. Remember, you’re not alone in this journey.

You have the power to change how you feel. Start by acknowledging your symptoms and taking action—because you deserve to feel your best.

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