01/7Hypothyroidism can be as concerning as hyperthyroidism

Thyroid disease affects a large population worldwide. It is a medical condition that takes a toll on the thyroid gland, located in the front of your neck, and limits it from producing the right amount of hormones.

The two most common types of thyroid disorders include: hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism.

While hyperthyroidism indicates the production of too much thyroid hormone, hypothyroidism signals low production of the same hormones, leading to several health complications. In this article however, we will discuss the latter in detail and also talk about the kind of changes it triggers in the face.

Also read: Pancreatic cancer: The colour of your urine could signal the first sign of this cancer

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02/7​What is hypothyroidism?

​What is hypothyroidism?
According to the Mayo Clinic, hypothyroidism or underactive thyroid is a condition in which your thyroid gland doesn't produce enough of certain crucial hormones. Early diagnosis is key in treating the condition. However, if left untreated, it can lead to other concerning health issues including obesity, joint pain, infertility and heart disease, as per the health body.
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03/7Note the changes to your facial expressions

Note the changes to your facial expressions
The MSD Manual describes symptoms of hypothyroidism as "subtle and insidious."

According to the health body, the most commonly reported symptoms include fluid retention and puffiness, especially periorbital, tiredness, cold intolerance and mental fogginess.

However, changes in the facial expressions can also be a tell-tale sign of hypothyroidism.

“Facial expressions become dull, the voice is hoarse, speech is slow, eyelids droop and the eyes and face become puffy,” the MSD Manuals explains.

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04/7​The cause

​The cause
The facial symptoms associated with hypothyroidism are an outcome of hormone fluctuations triggered by the condition itself. Low thyroid levels often lead to droopy eyelids or having a puffy and swollen face.

Furthermore, little to no eyebrows can also signal hypothyroidism, as hair loss is also associated with the condition. According to experts, this attributes to the disturbance in the production of T3 and T4 hormones, which regulate several bodily functions including hair growth.


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05/7​Other warning signs to watch out for

​Other warning signs to watch out for
If you're still unsure of whether the changes in your facial expressions is a sign of hypothyroidism, you can always look out for other symptoms, which include:

- Fatigue
- Intolerance and sensitivity towards cold
- Constipation
- Dry skin
- Weight gain
- Hoarseness
- Muscle weakness
- Elevated blood cholesterol level
- Muscle aches, tenderness and stiffness
- Heavier than normal or irregular menstrual periods
- Slowed heart rate
- Depression
- Memory problems
- Enlarged thyroid gland (goiter)

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06/7​Is there a way to prevent it?

​Is there a way to prevent it?
Cleveland Clinic says that hypothyroidism cannot be prevented. However, the health body claims that one can prevent developing a serious form of this condition. The best possible way is to watch out for the symptoms and to talk to a doctor when the symptoms start showing.

Experts also recommend getting tested to diagnose the condition early and to treat it effectively and on time. Besides identifying the symptoms, the healthcare provider will ask for a physical examination and certain blood tests.


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07/7​When to visit a doctor?

​When to visit a doctor?
As and when you start developing symptoms or notice a lump, nodule, or other growth on your thyroid, make sure to see an endocrinologist. While most of these are benign, Cleveland Clinic suggests that 5% of thyroid nodules are cancerous.

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