What are the typical symptoms of hypothyroidism?
Mar 13, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Chuanjia
Introduction
Hypothyroidism presents typical symptoms such as fatigue, memory impairment, bradycardia, constipation, and menstrual irregularities. The development of these symptoms is usually slow, and early symptoms may not be easily noticeable. As the condition progresses, symptoms gradually worsen and affect multiple systems. Therefore, when these symptoms appear, timely medical consultation and relevant examinations are necessary to confirm the diagnosis and initiate treatment.
Generally, hypothyroidism presents typical symptoms such as fatigue, memory impairment, bradycardia, constipation, and menstrual disorders. The specific details are as follows:
1. Fatigue
Patients often feel extreme tiredness and weakness, which is difficult to relieve even after adequate rest. This occurs because the deficiency of thyroid hormones leads to reduced functional activity of various organs and insufficient energy production.
2. Memory Impairment
Thyroid hormones are crucial for the development and maintenance of nervous system functions. When hypothyroidism occurs, the metabolism and function of the brain are affected, leading to memory decline, forgetfulness of recent events, and reduced efficiency in studying and work.
3. Bradycardia
Thyroid hormones increase heart rate. In hypothyroidism, heart rate is often below normal levels. Patients may experience palpitations and heart discomfort, with symptoms worsening after physical activity. Severe cases may also present with chest tightness and shortness of breath.
4. Constipation
Slowed gastrointestinal motility prolongs the retention of food in the intestines, resulting in excessive water absorption, dry and hard stools, and difficulty in defecation. Patients may go several days or even more than a week without a bowel movement.
5. Menstrual Disorders
In female patients, hypothyroidism often causes menstrual cycle irregularities, such as increased menstrual flow, prolonged periods, or amenorrhea. This occurs because abnormal thyroid hormone levels affect the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis, leading to endocrine dysfunction.
The progression of these symptoms is usually slow, and symptoms during the early stages of the disease may be difficult to detect. As the condition progresses, symptoms gradually worsen and may affect multiple systems. Therefore, when these symptoms appear, timely medical consultation and relevant examinations are necessary to establish a diagnosis and initiate treatment.
