On hormones: 10 signs you need an endocrinologist

Today, May 25, is World Thyroid Day, one of the most important organs of the endocrine system. Hormones that regulate metabolism affect the growth and development of the body – all this is produced by the thyroid gland, thereby affecting all aspects of human life. Thyroid disorders often look like symptoms of diseases in other organs, so we often turn to the wrong specialist for help. Together with the endocrinologist of the DocMed clinic, we have compiled a list of symptoms in the presence of which it is worth considering a visit to the doctor.

Varvara Filatova, endocrinologist at the DocMed clinic

Decreased mood/increased fatigue

If the general mood has dropped for no reason, you are upset and do not have the strength to do daily activities, this may be one of the manifestations of a malfunction of the thyroid gland. In particular, hypothyroidism is a condition where it stops producing the right amount of hormones.

・Weight increases

Weight gain of 10 kilograms or more is most often associated with malnutrition and excessive consumption of high-calorie foods. But against the background of advanced hypothyroidism, body weight can increase to about 5 kg due to a lack of thyroid hormones. Therefore, if, against the background of normal diet and physical activity, you notice swelling, weight gain, you should evaluate the function of the thyroid gland.

Hair loss

One of the most common symptoms of hypothyroidism. This symptom can also be combined with a lack of iron in the body. Therefore, often the doctor prescribes an examination of not only thyroid function, but also the presence of iron stores.

Menstrual irregularities

The absence or delay of menstruation is often caused by hormonal disorders, and one of the most common causes is thyroid pathology. With an unstable cycle, you need to consult a doctor – a gynecologist or endocrinologist.

・High cholesterol levels

This indicator in the biochemical blood test can be another “mask” of hypothyroidism. When high cholesterol is detected in women under 40 years of age, evaluation of thyroid function is recommended.

· cardiopalmus

Feeling more than 80 beats per minute and palpitations at rest can be a sign of thyrotoxicosis, a condition in which the thyroid gland begins to produce too much thyroid hormone. In this case, you need to contact an endocrinologist as soon as possible.

sudden weight loss/sweating

Another manifestation of thyrotoxicosis. Thyroid hormones affect the metabolic rate, so when their concentration increases, it accelerates. And although this may seem like a positive effect to many, it is not worth delaying a visit to the doctor. In addition to weight loss, elevated thyroid hormones impair heart function, bone density, and this may be accompanied by visual impairment.

Sudden mood swings / tearfulness

A symptom of thyrotoxicosis, which is characterized by the “acceleration” of mental reactions. It can also be manifested by a tremor – a thin tremor of the fingers of outstretched hands.

Palpable mass in the neck / feeling of a lump in the throat

This is an opportunity to make an ultrasound of the thyroid gland as soon as possible. Nodular formations are one of the most common pathologies of this organ. In most cases, no treatment is required, but medical supervision is required.

decreased libido

Low or no sex drive can be a side effect of thyroid disorders. Low hormone levels can cause a decrease in libido.

If you notice one or more signs of thyroid dysfunction in yourself, this is a reason to consult an endocrinologist. To assess the work of the body, it is enough to take a blood test for thyroid-stimulating hormone – TSH. And for the prevention of all thyroid diseases, doctors recommend using iodized salt when cooking.