Can Thyroid Problems Cause Fatigue

Signs And Symptoms Of Hypothyroidism

• Summary

Thyroid disorders are common. In fact, about 12% of people will experience abnormal thyroid function at some point during their lives.

Women are eight times more likely to develop a thyroid disorder than men. Also, thyroid problems increase with age and may affect adults differently than children.

At the most basic level, thyroid hormone is responsible for coordinating energy, growth and metabolism in your body.

Problems can occur when this hormones levels are too high or low.

Hypothyroidism, or low levels of thyroid hormone, slows your metabolism and decreases growth or repair of many parts of the body.

What Is The Outlook For People With Thyroid Disorders

The outlook for people with thyroid disorders varies depending on the severity of the condition.

Most people with hypothyroidism can expect to live a normal life with treatment.

People with hyperthyroidism may need lifelong treatment and close monitoring by a doctor. Complications of hyperthyroidism can be serious, so it’s important to get treatment and follow your doctor’s instructions.

Fatigue From Hyperthyroid Disease

One of the most difficult symptoms of hyperthyroid disease is the fatigue and weakness that it causes. Many people are surprised to learn that fatigue is aggravated by this form of thyroid disease.

The association with an over active thyroid sounds like it would make you more energetic. The reverse is actually true. Your body is burning so quickly that it is stressed out and tired even when you arent being physically active.

During the early stages of treatment, fatigue caused by the disease and the introduction of many of the medications to treat hyperthyroid disease can make dealing with daily life difficult.

There are some things you can do to manage the effects of the disease while your treatment continues.

Recommended Reading: Is Fatigue A Sign Of Cancer

Avoid Exposure To Radiation And Toxic Chemicals

Thyroid problems can be caused by exposure to radiation and toxic chemicals. So, its important to avoid exposure to these substances if possible.

If you must be exposed to radiation or toxic chemicals, ask your doctor about ways to protect your thyroid gland.

There are certain environmental factors that can be harmful to the thyroid gland. So, its important to avoid exposure to these things if you want to keep your thyroid healthy. For example, you may be able to take a medication that helps protect your thyroid gland from the effects of radiation.

Some of the things that you should avoid include:

– Radiation: Exposure to radiation can damage the thyroid gland and lead to problems such as hypothyroidism.

– Toxic chemicals: There are many toxic chemicals that can be harmful to the thyroid gland. These include certain pesticides, herbicides, and industrial chemicals.

– Smoking: Smoking is a risk factor for many health problems, including thyroid problems.

Limit Your Intake Of Caffeine And Alcohol

Caffeine and alcohol can both interfere with proper thyroid function. So, its important to limit your intake of these substances if you have a thyroid condition.

If you do drink caffeine or alcohol, be sure to do so in moderation. And, be sure to talk to your doctor about how much is safe for you to consume.

Recommended Reading: What Is The Cure For Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

Lifestyle Remedies For Hyperthyroidism

Its a good idea to watch your iodine intake if youve been diagnosed with hyperthyroidism, since high levels of iodine consumption can exacerbate the condition. Look for ways to limit iodine in your diet by restricting your consumption of iodine-rich foods such as fish, seaweed, shrimp, dairy products, and grain products . Definitely check with your doctor before taking any medications or supplements with iodine.

Sodium can also contribute to edema , which is common with Graves disease, so youll also want to watch your salt intake.

While there is no particular hyperthyroidism diet, there are foods which can give you a bit of a boost in your fight with hyperthyroidism. Since some symptoms can sap your energy, you should eat lots of fresh fruits and vegetables to get a steady supply of the vitamins and minerals your body needs. Berries are a smart choice because theyre high in antioxidants, while cruciferous veggies like broccoli, cauliflower, and cabbage have compounds called goitrogens that can actually decrease the thyroid hormone produced by your body.

In addition, take steps to reduce stress and relax. Slowing down is key, even if it feels counterintuitive with all the sped up effects of hyperthyroidism. The Graves Disease & Thyroid Foundation recommends practices such as yoga, Tai Chi, self-hypnosis, and meditation.

Why It Happens How To Cope And What Else May Be Making You Tired

• Coping

Fatigue is a common symptom of thyroid disease. And, if you’ve experienced it, you’re very aware that this isn’t the typical fatigue that many people experience after a night of poor sleep or during a stressful time.

It’s often extreme exhaustion that interferes with daily life. Whether you find yourself needing a nap every afternoon to make it to dinnertime or waking up unrefreshed and brain-fogged despite a full night’s sleep, it may make you feel better to know that you’re not alone.

Adjusting your thyroid medication dose , improving your sleep habits, and addressing other factors that may be making the issue worse, can all help you improve this common thyroid disease symptom and live better with your condition.

Keep reading to learn more about how thyroid disease can make you feel exhausted. This article will also discuss treatment for thyroid disease and ways to find more energy.

Verywell / Emily Roberts

Read Also: Can Lupus Cause Extreme Fatigue

How Can You Prevent A Thyroid Disorder From Occurring

There is no sure way to prevent a thyroid disorder from occurring, but there are some things you can do to lower your risk.

If you have a family history of thyroid problems, you may want to get tested even if you don’t have any symptoms. That’s because thyroid problems can run in families, so you may be at risk even if you don’t have any symptoms yet.

You can also lower your risk by avoiding exposure to environmental factors that can cause thyroid problems, such as radiation and certain chemicals.

Should I Get Tested For A Thyroid Problem

Yes! If youve been suspecting that small, subtle symptoms you have might be connected to something bigger, do get appropriate testing.

For the estimated 28 million women with known energy and metabolism problems due to hypothyroidism, the trouble usually creeps up. Its not a flash flood that takes out your whole house its a dripping faucet that might erode the foundation over time.

Comprehensive testing provides the information needed for a definitive diagnosis before starting any medication or other treatment plan for healing your thyroid. Unnecessary treatment and over-treatment in the integrative and functional medicine practitioners may be as common as missed diagnoses and under-treatment are by conventional doctors.

You May Like: Timberland Boots With Anti Fatigue

What Are The Symptoms Of Hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism can result in a variety of signs and symptoms, including fatigue, weight gain, cold intolerance, dry skin, and constipation. If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to see your doctor so they can test your thyroid hormone levels.

If left untreated for a long time, hypothyroidism can cause serious problems such as heart disease and infertility. But don’t worry with treatment, most people with hypothyroidism live healthy, normal lives.

Surgery For Thyroid Disorders

Removing the thyroid gland can cure hyperthyroidism, but the procedure is only recommended if antithyroid drugs don’t work, or if there is a large goiter. Surgery may also be recommended for patients with thyroid nodules. Once the thyroid is removed, most patients require daily supplements of thyroid hormones to avoid developing hypothyroidism.

Recommended Reading: Medical Reasons For Fatigue And Tiredness

Early Life Adversity And Thyroid Functioning

In patients, nearly all forms of childhood trauma were marginally to highly significantly related to circulating levels of TSH . No such associations were observed for fT3 and the same was true for fT4, although there was a trend-level association with physical neglect .

Early life adversity and TSH in patients with FSS. Controlling for age, Body mass index , smoking, and intake of medication, the association of physical neglect , physical abuse , and sexual abuse with TSH was significant, and there was a trend in terms of emotional neglect . There was no significant association between emotional abuse and TSH .

There were no relationships between childhood trauma and thyroid parameters in healthy controls .

How Is Hyperthyroidism Diagnosed

Early detection is important so that you and your doctor can outline a plan for hyperthyroidism treatment before it causes irreversible damage. Brenessa Lindeman, MD, Assistant Professor of Surgery and Medical Education at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, emphasizes the need for people with suspicious symptoms to advocate for their own health and get checked for hyperthyroidism early to prevent serious complications like osteoporosis, premature menopause, or even cardiac arrest.

Methods of diagnosis for hyperthyroidism include:

• Analysis of medical history and symptoms
• Physical examination
• An ultrasound or nuclear medicine scan of your thyroid to see if it has nodules, or to determine whether it is inflamed or overactive
• Blood tests to measure levels of thyroid hormones and related substances, including thyroid stimulating hormone , triiodothyronine , thyroxine , and thyroid peroxidase antibody

Don’t Miss: Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Vs Hypersomnia

How To Supplement With Liquid Iron

How to Use

• Liquid iron: Start with 10 ml each day, do not exceed 20 ml per day
• Iron capsules: Start with 1 capsule of iron and increase up to 3 per day as tolerated and based on your serum iron/ferritin levels

My Recommended Brand and Product:

Use liquid iron if you have intestinal issues such as gas, bloating, diarrhea, constipation or if you have previously failed capsule forms of iron:

Symptoms Of Iron Deficiency

Symptoms of iron deficiency and thyroid disease are similar, making it hard to spot iron deficiency or IDA. They include:

• Persistent fatigue

Serum ferritin is not a routine part of your complete blood count . Your healthcare provider will need to order it separately.

If you’re paying out of pocket, the test will likely cost between $25 and $50. Results are usually back within two days .

Read Also: Army Fatigue Jacket Forever 21

Applied Science Nutrition’s Complete Thyroid Support Supplement

In today’s fast-paced world, it’s more important than ever to keep your thyroid healthy and functioning properly. Applied Science Nutrition’s Complete Thyroid Support supplement is a unique blend of vitamins, minerals, and herbs that help support optimal thyroid function. All-natural ingredients ensure a healthy and balanced lifestyle.

Ashwagandha, cayenne pepper, and iodine are just some of the ingredients in Complete Thyroid Support that help promote a healthy thyroid. If you are looking for a way to naturally support your thyroid health, look no further than Complete Thyroid Support from Applied Science Nutrition.

Be sure to talk to your doctor about which supplements are right for you. This is because some supplements may interact with medications or other medical conditions. And, remember not to take more than the recommended dose of any supplement.

Trouble Concentrating Or Remembering

Many patients with hypothyroidism complain of mental fogginess and trouble concentrating. The way this mental fogginess presents itself varies by person.

In one study, 22% of low-thyroid individuals described increased difficulty doing everyday math, 36% described thinking more slowly than usual and 39% reported having a poorer memory .

In another study of 14 men and women with untreated hypothyroidism, the participants showed difficulty remembering verbal cues .

The causes for this are not yet fully understood, but difficulties in memory improve with treatment of low thyroid hormone .

Difficulties in memory or concentration can happen to everyone, but if they are sudden or severe, they could be a signal of hypothyroidism.

Summary: Hypothyroidism can cause mental fogginess and difficulty concentrating. It may also impair certain kinds of memory.

Read Also: How To Beat Chronic Fatigue Naturally

What Is An Underactive Thyroid

Hypothyroidism, by contrast, stems from an underproduction of thyroid hormones. Since your body’s energy production requires certain amounts of thyroid hormones, a drop in hormone production leads to lower energy levels, causing you to feel weak and tired.

Approximately 25 million people suffer with hypothyroidism and about half are undiagnosed. Older adults — particularly women — are more likely to develop hypothyroidism than younger adults. Hypothyroidism also tends to run in families.

If hypothyroidism is not treated, it can raise your cholesterol levels and make you more likely to have a heart attack or stroke. During pregnancy, untreated hypothyroidism can harm your baby. Luckily, hypothyroidism is easy to treat.

Causes of hypothyroidism may include:

Hashimoto’s thyroiditis: In this autoimmune disorder, the body attacks thyroid tissue. The tissue eventually dies and stops producing hormones. Other autoimmune disorders occur with this condition and other family members may also be affected by this condition.

Removal of the thyroid gland: The thyroid may be surgically removed or chemically destroyed as treatment for hyperthyroidism.

Exposure to excessive amounts of iodide: The heart medicine amiodarone may expose you to too much iodine. Radioactive iodine treatment for hyperthyroidism can also result in hypothyroidism. You may be at greater risk for developing hypothyroidism, especially if you have had thyroid problems in the past.

Continued

What Causes Fatigue In People With Hypothyroidism

The general fatigue associated with hypothyroidism is caused by a number of different mechanisms but is primarily the result of an overall decrease in metabolism.

Cells throughout the entire body rely on thyroid hormone to perform their basic metabolic functions. A lack of thyroid hormone results in a slower basal metabolic rate. When metabolism is low, activity of the mitochondria within cells is impaired, which leads to low levels of ATP and, ultimately, to generalized fatigue. In addition to general fatigue, low ATP levels also contribute to muscle symptoms such as increased muscle tension, pain, and weakness.

Furthermore, patients with hypothyroidism are known to produce more lactic acid, which also contributes to muscle pain, muscle cramps, and fatigue.

Many individuals with hypothyroidism may notice fatigue especially with physical exertion. This is caused in part by the direct effects of thyroid hormone on heart tissue. Without enough thyroid hormone, the heart slows down and decreases the amount of blood pumped, reducing the flow of oxygenated blood to the tissues.

Because thyroid hormone also influences blood sugar metabolism and blood flow to the brain, thyroid hormone deficiency also can cause fatigue by decreasing the amount of glucose and oxygen available to the brain. This leads to the lethargy, forgetfulness, and depression common to those with hypothyroidism.

Recommended Reading: Best Workouts For Adrenal Fatigue

How Are Thyroid Disorders Diagnosed

Thyroid disorders are diagnosed with blood tests that check the levels of thyroxine and triiodothyronine in your blood. Your doctor may also order a thyroid-stimulating hormone test.

If you have a family history of thyroid problems, you may want to get tested even if you don’t have any symptoms. That’s because thyroid problems can run in families, so you may be at risk even if you don’t have any symptoms yet.

What Are The Complications Of Thyroid Problems

If not treated, thyroid problems can lead to serious health problems.

Hypothyroidism can cause heart disease, infertility, and goiters .

Hyperthyroidism can cause heart failure, osteoporosis, and Graves’ disease.

If you have a thyroid problem, it’s important to get treatment to avoid these complications.

Recommended Reading: What To Take For Fatigue During Menopause

What Is An Overactive Thyroid

Hyperthyroidism happens when the thyroid becomes overactive and produces too much of its hormones. Hyperthyroidism affects women five times to 10 times more often than men, and is most common in people younger than 40. People with hyperthyroidism have problems that reflect over activity of the body’s organs, resulting in such symptoms as sweating, feeling hot, rapid heartbeat, weight loss, and sometimes eye problems.

Hyperthyroidism can occur in several ways:

Graves’ disease: The release of excess hormones is triggered by an autoimmune disorder. For some unknown reason, the body attacks the thyroid, causing it to spill out too much hormone.

Toxic adenomas: Nodules develop in the thyroid gland and begin to secrete thyroid hormones, upsetting the body’s chemical balance. Some goiters may contain several of these nodules.

Subacute thyroiditis: Painful inflammation of the thyroid causes the gland to enlarge and “leak” excess hormones, resulting in temporary hyperthyroidism, which resolves spontaneously. Subacute thyroiditis generally lasts a few weeks but may persist for months.

Pituitary gland malfunctions or cancerous growths in the thyroid gland: Although rare, hyperthyroidism can also develop from these causes.

Silent thyroiditis: This is usually a temporary state of excess thyroid hormone release causing mild hyperthyroidism. In some cases it can result in permanent damage to the thyroid and low thyroid hormone production by the gland.

Continued

Wrapping It Up + What To Do Next

Fatigue is a very common symptom of hypothyroidism and may indicate a deeper problem ranging from hormone imbalances to nutrient deficiencies.

Simply replacing thyroid hormone may not be enough to completely energize your body and reduce your fatigue.

Instead make sure to take a comprehensive approach which includes evaluation for nutrient deficiencies and treatment of other aspects of your life such as diet, stress and sleeping patterns.

The combination of these therapies above has proven to be very effective in my patients and I think you will also find these techniques helpful.

Make sure to employ ALL of the therapies that are relevant to you.

Now it’s your turn:

Are you suffering from thyroid fatigue?

What have you tried?

What’s worked and what hasn’t?

Leave your comments below!

Also Check: Chest Pain Nausea Headache Fatigue