Thyroid For Dummies
Book image
Explore Book Buy On Amazon

Someone with hypothyroidism — an underactive thyroid gland — often experiences some of the following signs and symptoms. Keep in mind that these symptoms alone can't diagnose thyroid disease, and thyroid disease is sometimes present even if you don't experience all the symptoms:

  • Slow pulse

  • Enlarged thyroid (unless removed during previous thyroid treatment)

  • Dry, cool skin that is puffy, pale, and yellowish

  • Brittle nails and dry, brittle hair that falls out excessively

  • Swelling, especially of the legs

  • Hoarseness, slow speech, and a thickened tongue

  • Slow reflexes

  • Intolerance to cold

  • Tiredness and a need to sleep excessively

  • Constipation

  • Increased menstrual flow

About This Article

This article is from the book:

About the book author:

Alan L. Rubin, MD, has had a private practice specializing in thyroid disorders and diabetes for nearly three decades. A member of the Endocrine Society, he speaks regularly on thyroid health.

This article can be found in the category: