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Is there a connection between hypothyroidism and menopause? The subject has been receiving a lot of attention in recent times yet so many women are still confused about hypothyroidism and it’s symptoms.

In this article, we’’ll take a look at the symptoms associated with it and how it relates to menopause.

Hypothyroidism Symptoms

The connection between hypothyroidism and menopause is understandable. The problem is, the signs are almost identical for both and unless a woman has really taken the time to explore the subject, most times she will just assume she’s in the early stages of perimenopause.

So, what symptoms should you be on the lookout for. Try these as a starting point:

- weight gain
- mood swings
- depression
- low energy levels
- pain in the joints as well as muscle pain
- dry skin
- irregular periods
- interrupted sleeping patterns

We’ve only just scratched the surface. Can you see the similarity with the symptoms of hypothyroidism and those of perimenopause. Before you jump to any conclusions take a moment and consider some of these others.

- low sex drive
- an onset of allergies which you can’t seem to shake
- "blonde syndrome" for want of a better description but moments when you have sudden memory lapses trouble keeping your thoughts on a straight and narrow path

Again, we’ve only highlighted a few. What should you do if you suspect you have issues with your thyroid. Well, the most sensible course of action is to make an appointment to see your doctor.

There is no point guessing at this stage. The reality is, by ignoring the symptoms and deciding in your own mind that it’s just menopausal, then you could be doing yourself more harm.

You see, without proper assessment and treatment, the symptoms can only worsen over time and lead to further complications.

Weight Gain

This is probably the biggest tell tale sign of thyroid issues. Unusual weight gain but worse still, extreme difficulty shedding it. An underactive thyroid and low metabolism are closely connected.

The thyroid gland is almost like a "traffic cop" in a person’s system and apart from regulating metabolic function, it’s own healthy state depends on a number of other areas in the the body including good hormone reproduction.

Keep a close watch on your appetite. An increase in appetite is another sign it may be time to talk to your doctor. Hypothyroidism and menopause are connected, but more in terms of occurring at roughly the same time and displaying similar symptoms. The earliest assessment you have then the better your chances of at least warding off excessive weight gain.