Weight gain, increased cholesterol, depression and slow mental processes are all symptoms, as well as health problems, associated with underactive thyroid. There are also several other signs to watch for. Keep in mind that these symptoms can be subtle and are often easily overlooked as signs of normal aging.

Five to eight times more females than males have hypothyroidism, so being female is an immediate risk factor. However, that still means that about 3 million men are afflicted; not a small number! The condition is more common in women following pregnancy, around menopause, or after age 60. Diabetes is also a strong risk factor: 15-20% of people with diabetes and their siblings and parents are likely to develop thyroid disease.  If you have a close family member with the disease you are also at greater risk.

Early symptoms of the disease include:

• Fatigue
• Muscle weakness
• Sluggishness
• Swollen tongue
• Puffy face 

As metabolism continues to slow you may experience:

• Feeling cold when others don’t
• Constipation
• Coarse hair
• Brittle nails
• Heavy menstrual periods
• Slower pulse
• Husky voice
• Pale, dry skin
• Raised blood cholesterol level
• Weight gain of up to 10-20 pounds
• Depression
• Forgetfulness
• Mood swings
• Irritability
• Goiter
• Decreased sexual desire