Little-Known Signs Your Thyroid Is Out of Whack

21. Increased or Decreased Sweating

Beyond general temperature sensitivity, thyroid dysfunction can cause a noticeable change in your body's sweating patterns. In hyperthyroidism, the body's overactive metabolism generates excess heat, causing you to sweat more frequently and profusely, even in cool environments. Conversely, hypothyroidism's sluggish metabolism can lead to a reduced ability to regulate temperature, causing a decrease in sweating. This can result in the skin feeling dry and clammy. These changes in sweating are a direct result of your thyroid's impact on your body's internal thermostat.

22. Unusually Brittle or Dry Nails

While hair and skin changes are common, a very specific red flag for thyroid dysfunction is unusually brittle, dry, or peeling nails. Thyroid hormones regulate cell turnover, and when they are out of balance, the body's ability to produce healthy nail cells is compromised. You might notice your nails are splitting or breaking more easily, or that ridges have appeared on the surface. This isn't just a sign of poor diet; it's a visible cue that your thyroid is failing to support the rapid cell growth needed for strong, healthy nails.