An endocrinologist explained what changes to pay attention to, which tests help check the thyroid, and why even familiar cosmetic products can be sources of substances with potential effects on the endocrine system, reports [digi24](https://www.digi24.ro/stiri/actualitate/sanatate/semnele-care-pot-indica-o-afectiune-a-tiroidei-medicul-endocrinolog-explica-ce-obicei-zilnic-poate-influenta-functia-glandei-3931811). ## Why the Thyroid Gland Is So Important The thyroid gland is located in the lower part of the neck and produces hormones T3 and T4. They are involved in regulating metabolism, affect heart function, growth and development of the body, energy metabolism, and a number of other processes. Therefore, when the thyroid gland starts to work too slowly or, conversely, produces an excess of hormones, changes can affect several systems at once. At the same time, symptoms often develop gradually and can easily be explained by stress, lack of sleep, or age. ## When the Thyroid Works Too Slowly In hypothyroidism, the body receives insufficient thyroid hormones. One of the most common manifestations is constant fatigue and a feeling of lack of energy. Other possible symptoms include: - drowsiness and decreased concentration; - memory problems; - dry skin and hair loss; - brittle nails; - constipation; - weight gain or tendency to retain fluid; - muscle pain; - low mood; - slowed pulse; - increased sensitivity to cold. A person may feel cold even in a comfortable environment. However, none of these symptoms alone proves the presence of hypothyroidism. For example, fatigue and hair loss have many possible causes. ## If There Are Too Many Hormones In hyperthyroidism, the opposite situation occurs: the thyroid gland produces too many hormones, and many processes in the body speed up. **In this case, possible symptoms include:** - anxiety and irritability; - constant feeling of internal tension; - rapid heartbeat and heart rhythm disturbances; - tremors in the hands; - weight loss while maintaining or increasing appetite; - increased sweating; - poor tolerance to heat; - frequent stools; - muscle weakness; - insomnia. In some cases, hyperthyroidism can also lead to heart rhythm disturbances. ## A “Lump” in the Throat Should Not Be Ignored Either Another reason to see a doctor is the feeling of pressure or tightness in the neck area, the sensation of a “lump” in the throat, difficulty swallowing, or noticeable enlargement of the thyroid gland. The cause may be an enlargement of the gland itself — goiter — or a nodular formation. However, the presence of a goiter does not automatically indicate either hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism. The thyroid gland can enlarge in various conditions, so understanding the cause requires medical examination. ## What Causes Thyroid Dysfunction The causes depend on what kind of disorder is being discussed. One of the most common causes of hypothyroidism is Hashimoto's autoimmune thyroiditis. In this case, the immune system attacks the tissues of the thyroid gland, and over time its ability to produce hormones may decrease. The function of the gland can also be affected by surgeries on the thyroid gland, radiation therapy in the neck area, and certain medications. Hyperthyroidism, in turn, may be associated with an autoimmune disease, particularly Graves' disease, autonomous thyroid nodules, inflammation of the gland, or excess iodine. Sometimes the cause is too high a dose of hormones taken as part of treatment for hypothyroidism. ## Can Regular Perfume Have an Effect? In everyday life, a person comes into contact with a large number of chemicals. Some compounds have properties of endocrine disruptors — that is, they can potentially interfere with the hormonal system. Such substances can be found in various products, including some cosmetics, perfumes, plastics, and household chemicals. This does not mean that regular perfume will necessarily disrupt the function of the thyroid gland. The connection between a specific product and disease cannot be established without assessing the substance, dosage, and duration of exposure. Nevertheless, unnecessary contact with potentially harmful compounds can be reduced in simple ways: by not using excessive amounts of cosmetics, paying attention to the composition of products, and choosing items with a clear formula. ## What Tests Can Help Check the Thyroid The first stage usually involves blood tests for TSH and free T4 (FT4). If the results differ from the norm, the doctor may prescribe additional studies. Depending on the situation, antibodies are checked — for example, anti-TPO, antibodies to thyroglobulin, or antibodies to the TSH receptor. An ultrasound of the thyroid gland also plays an important role. It allows for the assessment of the structure of the organ and the identification of nodules, determining their number and size. If suspicious changes are detected, the doctor may prescribe additional examinations, including fine-needle aspiration of nodules if indicated. **Important:** one number in the analysis is not enough for a self-diagnosis. Results are evaluated together with symptoms, medical history, and data from other studies. The thyroid gland affects the functioning of many systems, so its disorders can be masked as ordinary fatigue, stress, or age-related changes. Constant drowsiness and coldness may accompany hypothyroidism, while palpitations, sweating, and unexplained weight loss may indicate hyperthyroidism. However, relying solely on symptoms is incorrect: similar signs occur in dozens of other conditions. If changes persist or several unusual symptoms appear simultaneously, it is wiser not to search for a diagnosis online but to discuss the situation with a doctor and, if necessary, check TSH and free T4. And caring for thyroid health is better started not with dietary supplements and “detox programs,” but with a proper examination and understanding of the cause of the problem.
