Signs Your Thyroid May Be Suffering (and What You Can Do About It)

The thyroid might be small, but its impact on your health is mighty. Located at the base of your neck, this butterfly-shaped gland regulates your metabolism, energy levels, body temperature, and even your mood. When your thyroid is out of balance—whether underactive (hypothyroidism) or overactive (hyperthyroidism)—your entire body can feel the effects.

Here are some common signs your thyroid may be struggling—and what you can do to support it.

🚨 Warning Signs of Thyroid Trouble

1. Persistent Fatigue

If you feel tired all the time—even after a good night’s sleep—your thyroid might be underperforming. Low thyroid hormone slows metabolism, which leads to low energy levels.

2. Unexplained Weight Changes

Struggling to lose weight or gaining pounds without changing your diet? Hypothyroidism often causes weight gain, while hyperthyroidism can lead to unexpected weight loss.

3. Hair Thinning or Hair Loss

Both hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism can lead to brittle hair, thinning eyebrows, or noticeable hair loss. This happens because thyroid hormones are involved in the growth cycle of hair follicles.

4. Mood Swings or Depression

A struggling thyroid can throw off your brain chemistry. Hypothyroidism is commonly linked to depression and brain fog, while hyperthyroidism can lead to anxiety, restlessness, or irritability.

5. Cold Hands and Feet

Do you always feel cold, even when others are comfortable? An underactive thyroid slows down circulation and temperature regulation.

6. Changes in Heart Rate

A slow heart rate may be a symptom of hypothyroidism, while a racing or irregular heartbeat might point to hyperthyroidism.

7. Digestive Changes

Constipation often accompanies hypothyroidism, while frequent bowel movements or even diarrhea can signal an overactive thyroid.

✅ What You Can Do About It

1. Get a Thyroid Panel

Ask your doctor for a full thyroid panel—not just TSH. Important markers include:

• TSH (thyroid-stimulating hormone)

• Free T3

• Free T4

• Reverse T3

• Thyroid antibodies (for autoimmune thyroid disease)

2. Check Your Iodine and Selenium Levels

These trace minerals are essential for thyroid function. Iodine helps create thyroid hormones, and selenium helps convert T4 into the active T3 form.

3. Support Your Gut Health

A large part of your thyroid hormone conversion happens in the gut. Eat fermented foods, increase fiber, and consider a high-quality probiotic.

4. Reduce Stress

Chronic stress can suppress thyroid function by disrupting the hypothalamic-pituitary-thyroid (HPT) axis. Mindfulness, breathwork, exercise, and quality sleep can help.

5. Consider Cutting Back on Gluten and Processed Foods

For some people, especially those with Hashimoto’s (autoimmune thyroiditis), gluten can trigger inflammation and worsen symptoms.

6. Work with a Functional Medicine Practitioner

If your doctor tells you your thyroid labs are “normal” but you still feel off, consider seeing a functional medicine specialist for deeper insights and a customized plan.

🧠 Final Thought

Your thyroid could be quietly sabotaging your energy, mood, and metabolism. Don’t ignore the signs. With the right testing and lifestyle changes, many people find significant relief—and reclaim their vitality.