Why women are more affected
Thyroid conditions are several times more common in women than men, and the risk rises with age. The thyroid — a small gland in your neck — controls your metabolism, so when it's under- or over-active, the effects ripple through your whole body. Because the symptoms are so general, they're often blamed on stress, busy life, ageing or menopause.
That overlap is exactly why thyroid problems are missed, and why it's worth knowing the early signs.
Signs of an underactive thyroid
An underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism) is the most common. Early warning signs include persistent tiredness, unexplained weight gain, feeling cold when others don't, dry skin, hair thinning, constipation, low mood or brain fog, and heavier or irregular periods.
These develop gradually, which is part of why they creep up unnoticed — you adjust to feeling a bit flat and tired without realising there's a fixable reason.
Signs of an overactive thyroid
An overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism) tends to speed everything up: anxiety or restlessness, a racing or pounding heart, unexplained weight loss, feeling hot and sweaty, shaky hands, trouble sleeping, and lighter or less frequent periods.
Both are diagnosed with a simple blood test. If you have these symptoms — especially fatigue, weight or period changes that don't add up — ask your GP to check your thyroid. A telehealth consult can arrange the test and review the results.
Related condition
Thyroid health →References & sources
- 1.Hypothyroidism — healthdirect
- 2.Thyroid gland — healthdirect
- 3.Thyroid gland — Better Health Channel
This content is general information and not a substitute for individual medical advice. Please consult a GP for your personal situation.
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