10 Signs You May Have Undiagnosed Hypothyroidism - Prosperity Health | Functional Medicine Doctor

Is Hypothyroidism Causing Your Health, Energy & Weight Issues?

If you have been feeling “not yourself” – but you and your doctors can’t figure out what’s wrong – you may be suffering from undiagnosed hypothyroidism.

Hypothyroidism remains one of the most commonly missed, misdiagnosed and undiagnosed conditions affecting millions of Americans, with symptoms that many doctors mistake for stress, “normal aging”, or other health issues. Hypothyroidism develops when the thyroid gland produces insufficient amounts of essential hormones needed to regulate metabolism, energy production, and numerous bodily functions. And because hypothyroidism symptoms often develop gradually over months or years, it can make it challenging for both patients and healthcare providers to recognize the underlying thyroid dysfunction that’s responsible for declining health and quality of life.

Many individuals suffering from hypothyroidism spend years visiting different healthcare providers, trying various treatments, and feeling frustrated by the lack of answers for their persistent symptoms. The complexity of thyroid function and its impact on virtually every system in the body requires specialized knowledge and comprehensive evaluation to identify the subtle signs that point to thyroid dysfunction. Early recognition and proper treatment of hypothyroidism can dramatically improve quality of life and prevent the progression of more serious health complications.

At Prosperity Health in the Troy, MI area, thyroid specialist Dr. Nishath Hakim is an expert in identifying and treating thyroid disorders like hypothyroidism through comprehensive evaluation and personalized treatment approaches. Dr. Hakim understands that hypothyroidism presents differently in each patient and requires thorough assessment to uncover the root causes and develop effective treatment strategies that restore optimal thyroid function and overall health.

Hypothyroidism Symptom #1: Difficulty Losing Weight

Unexplained weight gain or the inability to lose weight despite maintaining healthy eating habits and regular exercise represents one of the most frustrating and common signs of hypothyroidism. This metabolic dysfunction occurs because thyroid hormones directly control the rate at which the body burns calories and converts food into energy. When thyroid hormone production decreases, the metabolic rate slows significantly, causing the body to store more calories as fat while making it increasingly difficult to burn stored energy reserves.

The weight-related changes associated with hypothyroidism often include not only increased numbers on the scale but also changes in body composition, with patients experiencing increased fat storage particularly around the midsection, hips, and thighs. This weight gain typically occurs gradually and may be accompanied by increased appetite, cravings for carbohydrates, and a general feeling that the metabolism has suddenly shifted into a slower gear that doesn’t respond to traditional weight management approaches.

The metabolic slowdown caused by hypothyroidism affects multiple aspects of energy utilization, including reduced thermogenesis, decreased protein synthesis, and altered fat metabolism that makes weight management particularly challenging without addressing the underlying thyroid dysfunction. Troy, MI area thyroid specialist Nishath Hakim will evaluate your weight changes in combination with other symptoms and comprehensive laboratory testing to determine if hypothyroidism is contributing to your metabolic challenges and develop an effective treatment strategy.

Hypothyroidism Symptom #2: Extreme Fatigue

Overwhelming exhaustion that persists despite adequate rest and sleep represents a hallmark symptom of hypothyroidism that can significantly impact all aspects of daily life and personal relationships. This debilitating fatigue differs markedly from normal tiredness, as it involves a profound lack of energy that makes even simple tasks feel overwhelming and exhausting. Patients often describe feeling like they’re moving through thick molasses or that their energy reserves have been completely depleted, regardless of how much sleep they get.

The cellular basis for hypothyroidism-related fatigue involves impaired mitochondrial function and decreased ATP production that occurs when thyroid hormones are insufficient to support normal cellular metabolism. Every cell in the body depends on adequate thyroid hormone levels to efficiently convert nutrients into usable energy, and when these hormones are low, cellular energy production becomes sluggish and inefficient, resulting in the profound fatigue that characterizes this condition.

This energy depletion often worsens throughout the day and can be accompanied by the need for frequent naps, difficulty waking up in the morning, and a general feeling of being physically and mentally drained that doesn’t improve with rest or caffeine consumption. Troy, MI area thyroid specialist Nishath Hakim will assess your energy levels and fatigue patterns as part of a comprehensive thyroid evaluation to determine if hypothyroidism is responsible for your exhaustion and develop targeted treatment approaches.

Hypothyroidism Symptom #3: Brain Fog

Mental cloudiness, memory problems, and difficulty concentrating represent significant cognitive symptoms of hypothyroidism that can affect work performance, academic achievement, and daily decision-making abilities. This “brain fog” manifests as trouble finding words, forgetting common information, difficulty processing complex thoughts, and a general feeling that mental sharpness has diminished significantly. Many patients worry that these cognitive changes indicate more serious neurological problems before discovering the connection to thyroid dysfunction.

The neurological impact of hypothyroidism results from decreased glucose utilization in brain tissue, reduced neurotransmitter production, and impaired cellular communication between neurons that affects memory formation, information processing, and executive function. Thyroid hormones are crucial for maintaining optimal brain metabolism and supporting the complex biochemical processes that enable clear thinking, sharp memory, and efficient cognitive processing.

These cognitive symptoms can be particularly distressing for individuals who previously enjoyed sharp mental clarity and may notice increasing difficulty with tasks that were once effortless, such as remembering names, following complex conversations, or managing multiple responsibilities simultaneously. Troy, MI area thyroid specialist Nishath Hakim will evaluate your cognitive symptoms alongside other signs of hypothyroidism to develop a treatment plan that addresses thyroid function while supporting optimal brain health and mental clarity.

Hypothyroidism Symptom #4: Depression & Emotional Changes

Mood disturbances including persistent sadness, anxiety, irritability, and loss of interest in previously enjoyable activities commonly develop in individuals with hypothyroidism, often appearing before other physical symptoms become obvious. These emotional changes can range from mild mood fluctuations to severe depression that significantly impacts relationships, work performance, and overall life satisfaction. The gradual onset of these mood symptoms often leads patients and healthcare providers to attribute them to stress, life circumstances, or psychiatric conditions rather than thyroid dysfunction.

The connection between hypothyroidism and mood disorders involves the crucial role that thyroid hormones play in regulating neurotransmitter production and function, particularly serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine, which are essential for maintaining emotional stability and positive mood. Low thyroid hormone levels can disrupt the delicate balance of these brain chemicals, leading to symptoms that closely resemble clinical depression and anxiety disorders.

The emotional impact of hypothyroidism extends beyond simple chemical imbalances to include the psychological effects of dealing with chronic fatigue, physical discomfort, and other symptoms that can contribute to feelings of hopelessness and frustration about declining health and quality of life. Troy, MI area thyroid specialist Nishath Hakim will assess your mood changes in the context of other hypothyroidism symptoms to develop an integrated treatment approach that addresses both thyroid function and emotional wellbeing.

Hypothyroidism Symptom #5: Hair Loss

Thinning hair, excessive hair loss, and changes in hair texture represent visible signs of hypothyroidism that can significantly impact self-esteem and confidence for affected individuals. This hair loss typically presents as diffuse thinning across the entire scalp rather than localized bald spots, and may also affect eyebrows, eyelashes, and body hair. The remaining hair often becomes dry, brittle, coarse, and lacks its normal shine and manageability, making styling difficult and further contributing to concerns about appearance.

Hypothyroidism disrupts normal hair growth cycles by prolonging the resting phase and shortening the active growth phase of hair follicle development, resulting in decreased hair production and increased shedding of existing hair. Thyroid hormones are essential for maintaining healthy hair follicles and supporting the complex protein synthesis required for strong, healthy hair growth, and deficiency in these hormones leads to weakened hair structure and reduced follicle activity.

The outer third of the eyebrows is particularly sensitive to thyroid hormone levels, making eyebrow thinning or loss a classic diagnostic sign that experienced practitioners look for when evaluating potential thyroid dysfunction. Hair-related symptoms may take several months to improve after thyroid treatment begins, as new hair growth cycles must be established. Troy, MI area thyroid specialist Nishath Hakim will examine your hair loss patterns and texture changes as part of a comprehensive thyroid assessment to determine appropriate treatment strategies for restoring healthy hair growth.

Hypothyroidism Symptom #6: Feeling Cold All the Time

Persistent feelings of being cold, particularly in the hands and feet, along with increased sensitivity to cool temperatures represents a classic symptom of hypothyroidism that results from the body’s decreased ability to generate and maintain adequate body heat. Patients often find themselves reaching for sweaters when others are comfortable, experiencing constantly cold extremities, or needing extra blankets and layers to feel warm even in mild weather conditions.

The temperature regulation problems associated with hypothyroidism stem from reduced cellular metabolism and decreased thermogenesis that occurs when thyroid hormone levels are insufficient to support normal heat production throughout the body. Thyroid hormones directly influence the rate at which cells burn fuel to create energy and heat, and when these hormones are low, the body’s internal furnace runs at a much slower pace, resulting in decreased heat generation and difficulty maintaining normal body temperature.

This cold intolerance can affect circulation to the extremities, causing hands and feet to feel persistently cold and sometimes appear pale or bluish due to reduced blood flow, while the core body temperature may also run lower than normal. The severity of temperature sensitivity often correlates with the degree of thyroid hormone deficiency and typically improves as hormone levels are restored. Troy, MI area thyroid specialist Nishath Hakim will evaluate your temperature regulation symptoms alongside other clinical findings to assess thyroid function and develop appropriate treatment protocols.

Hypothyroidism Symptom #7: Constipation & Digestive Issues

Chronic constipation, bloating, and sluggish digestion frequently accompany hypothyroidism due to the significant impact that low thyroid hormones have on gastrointestinal motility and digestive function. This digestive slowdown can range from mild irregularity to severe constipation that causes significant discomfort and may require frequent use of laxatives or other interventions to maintain normal bowel function. The reduced gut motility can also contribute to feelings of fullness, bloating, and general digestive discomfort.

The gastrointestinal effects of hypothyroidism result from decreased smooth muscle contractions throughout the digestive tract, leading to slower movement of food and waste products through the intestines and reduced efficiency of the digestive process. Thyroid hormones help regulate the rhythmic contractions of intestinal muscles that propel contents through the digestive system, and insufficient hormone levels cause significant slowing of these essential muscular movements.

Additional digestive impacts may include reduced stomach acid production, decreased digestive enzyme secretion, and altered gut bacteria balance that further compromise digestive efficiency and nutrient absorption, potentially contributing to nutritional deficiencies that can worsen thyroid function. Troy, MI area thyroid specialist Nishath Hakim will assess your digestive symptoms as part of a comprehensive evaluation to determine if hypothyroidism is contributing to your gastrointestinal issues and develop treatment strategies that address both thyroid function and digestive health.

Hypothyroidism Symptom #8: Dry Skin & Brittle Nails

Noticeable changes in skin texture and nail quality, including dry, rough, or flaky skin and brittle, ridged, or slow-growing nails, commonly develop in individuals with hypothyroidism due to reduced cellular turnover and impaired moisture retention throughout the body. The skin may become visibly thicker, less elastic, and more prone to cracking or irritation, while nails may develop vertical ridges, break easily, or grow more slowly than normal, affecting both appearance and function.

Thyroid hormones play essential roles in maintaining healthy skin cell regeneration, collagen synthesis, and the skin’s natural barrier function that prevents moisture loss and protects against environmental damage. When thyroid hormone levels are low, skin cells reproduce more slowly, collagen production decreases, and the skin’s ability to retain moisture becomes compromised, leading to the dry, rough texture that characterizes hypothyroidism-related skin changes.

Nail changes occur because thyroid hormones are necessary for proper keratin production and nail matrix function, and deficiency in these hormones results in weaker nail structure, slower growth rates, and increased brittleness that makes nails more prone to breaking or splitting. These integumentary symptoms often improve within weeks to months of initiating appropriate thyroid treatment. Troy, MI area thyroid specialist Nishath Hakim will examine your skin and nail changes as indicators of thyroid function while developing comprehensive treatment plans that address both hormone replacement and overall health optimization.

Hypothyroidism Symptom #9: Muscle & Joint Pain

Muscle weakness, joint stiffness, and generalized aches and pains throughout the body frequently occur in hypothyroidism, affecting mobility, exercise tolerance, and overall physical comfort and function. These musculoskeletal symptoms can range from mild stiffness and weakness to significant impairment that interferes with daily activities, work performance, and recreational pursuits. The muscle-related symptoms often develop gradually and may be mistaken for normal aging, overuse injuries, or other musculoskeletal conditions.

The impact of hypothyroidism on muscle and joint function results from decreased protein synthesis, altered muscle fiber composition, and reduced cellular energy production within muscle tissue that leads to weakness, stiffness, and decreased contractile efficiency. Thyroid hormones are crucial for maintaining normal muscle metabolism and strength, and deficiency can cause muscle mass loss, reduced power output, and impaired recovery from physical activity.

Joint stiffness and discomfort may result from reduced synovial fluid production, decreased cartilage metabolism, and the accumulation of metabolic waste products in joint spaces that occurs when cellular metabolism is sluggish due to low thyroid hormone levels. These symptoms can particularly affect the hands, knees, and other weight-bearing joints. Troy, MI area thyroid specialist Nishath Hakim will evaluate your musculoskeletal symptoms in conjunction with other hypothyroidism signs to develop treatment approaches that address both thyroid function and physical comfort and mobility.

Hypothyroidism Symptom #10: Irregular Periods & Related Issues

Changes in menstrual patterns, including heavier periods, irregular cycles, or complete cessation of menstruation, commonly occur in women with hypothyroidism due to the complex interactions between thyroid hormones and the reproductive system. These menstrual changes can significantly impact fertility, comfort, and quality of life, ranging from subtle alterations in cycle timing to severe menorrhagia that causes anemia and severely disrupts daily activities and social functioning.

Hypothyroidism affects reproductive function through its influence on the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis and the intricate hormonal communications that regulate ovulation, menstruation, and fertility. Low thyroid hormone levels can disrupt the normal production and metabolism of reproductive hormones, interfere with ovulation timing, and affect the development and shedding of the uterine lining, leading to unpredictable and often problematic menstrual patterns.

Additional reproductive effects may include increased prolactin levels, decreased sex hormone binding globulin, and altered estrogen metabolism that can further complicate menstrual function and fertility, making conception more difficult for women trying to become pregnant. These reproductive symptoms often normalize as thyroid hormone levels are optimized through appropriate treatment. Troy, MI area thyroid specialist Nishath Hakim will assess your menstrual and reproductive symptoms as part of a comprehensive thyroid evaluation to develop treatment strategies that address both thyroid function and reproductive health.

Thyroid Specialist | Troy, MI Area

Recognizing these and other common signs of hypothyroidism can be the first crucial step toward reclaiming your health, energy, and vitality from this often-overlooked condition that can profoundly impact every aspect of your life. The wide-ranging symptoms of hypothyroidism can affect your physical comfort, mental clarity, emotional wellbeing, and overall quality of life. But with proper diagnosis and treatment by thyroid specialist Dr. Nishath Hakim at Prosperity Health in the Troy, MI area, these debilitating symptoms can be effectively managed and often completely resolved.

At Prosperity Health in the Troy, MI area, thyroid specialist Dr. Nishath Hakim brings expertise in thyroid disorders and comprehensive evaluation techniques that go beyond standard testing to identify the root causes of thyroid dysfunction and develop personalized treatment strategies that restore optimal function and health. Don’t continue to struggle with unexplained symptoms that may be related to hypothyroidism when effective solutions are available. Schedule an appointment at Prosperity Health today to begin your journey toward better health with thorough thyroid evaluation and expert treatment from thyroid specialist Dr. Nishath Hakim who understands the complexities of thyroid function and is committed to helping you achieve optimal wellness.