Signs Of Hypothyroidism

Pale Skin

Low levels of thyroid hormones inhibit blood circulation causing the skin to look pale and unhealthy. For the same reason, hypothyroidism patients are often cold, especially in their extremities. Individuals with chronically pale, waxy skin, and brittle fingernails should ask a doctor to test for thyroid disorders. Swollen, pale, and dehydrated skin caused by hypothyroidism, if left untreated for long periods, can cause mood disruptions, shortness of breath, memory loss, and in extreme case, a coma. Individuals with signs of poor circulation, including unusually pale skin, could be experiencing this symptom. Pale skin should subside fairly quickly with treatment.

Muscle Cramps

Among the more painful signs of hypothyroidism, having frequent muscle cramps can be a particularly bothersome symptom. A muscle cramp is an involuntary contraction of a muscle that can be sudden and range in severity. Cramps are usually a sign of dehydration, overexertion, or vitamin deficiency. If cramps are frequent and unexplained by other factors, they could be a symptom of hypothyroidism. Since an underactive thyroid causes poor circulation, the lack of blood flow to the muscles might cause chronic cramping. Muscle cramps will often be in the shoulders, arms, and thighs, sometimes affecting the range of movement. It is normal to have the occasional cramp, but if the symptom does not improve over time, patients should consider getting their thyroid checked.