Feeling constantly tired? Struggling with unexplained weight changes? Finding it difficult to concentrate or feeling unusually anxious?

Many women assume these symptoms are simply part of a busy lifestyle, stress, getting older or hormonal changes. While these factors can certainly play a role, similar symptoms may also be associated with a thyroid disorder.

The thyroid is a small gland located at the front of the neck, but it has a significant influence on many of the body's functions. When it produces too much or too little thyroid hormone, it can affect your energy levels, metabolism, heart rate, mood and overall wellbeing.

At Dr Esti-Mari Knipe & Associates , our Loftus practice provides comprehensive GP assessments for patients experiencing symptoms that may be related to thyroid disorders. We proudly care for patients from Loftus, Arcadia, Hatfield, Sunnyside and Pretoria Central , helping them understand their symptoms and guiding appropriate investigation and management.

The thyroid gland produces hormones that regulate many of the body's normal functions.

These hormones influence:

• Metabolism
• Energy production
• Body temperature
• Heart rate
• Digestion
• Muscle function
• Mood
• Menstrual cycles

When thyroid hormone levels become too high or too low, a wide range of symptoms may develop. Because many of these symptoms are non-specific, they can easily be mistaken for stress, menopause or the normal effects of a busy lifestyle. (Safpj)

An underactive thyroid slows many of the body's normal processes.

Symptoms may include:

• Persistent tiredness
• Feeling cold more easily than others
• Unexplained weight gain
• Dry skin
• Constipation
• Hair thinning
• Low mood
• Difficulty concentrating
• Slower heart rate
• Heavier menstrual periods

Symptoms often develop gradually over months, making them easy to overlook. (Epicentre Walk-In Labs)

An overactive thyroid speeds up the body's metabolism.

Possible symptoms include:

• Unexplained weight loss
• Feeling unusually warm
• Rapid heartbeat
• Palpitations
• Tremors
• Anxiety or nervousness
• Difficulty sleeping
• Increased sweating
• Frequent bowel movements

Not everyone experiences the same symptoms, which is why a medical assessment is important. (Knowledge Hub)

Women are significantly more likely than men to develop thyroid disorders, particularly during periods of hormonal change such as pregnancy, the post-partum period and menopause. Autoimmune thyroid disease is also more common in women. (Epicentre Walk-In Labs)

Although thyroid disorders can occur at any age, they become increasingly common in adulthood.

You should consider booking a GP consultation if you have:

• Persistent fatigue that doesn't improve with rest
• Unexplained weight gain or weight loss
• Changes in your menstrual cycle
• Hair loss or thinning
• Ongoing constipation
• Increased sensitivity to cold or heat
• Palpitations
• Mood changes without an obvious cause
• A family history of thyroid disease

These symptoms do not automatically mean you have a thyroid disorder, but they do warrant a professional assessment. Thyroid disease cannot be diagnosed on symptoms alone. (SciELO)

Your GP will begin by discussing your symptoms, medical history and any family history of thyroid disease.

A physical examination may include assessing your pulse, examining your neck and looking for clinical signs that could suggest thyroid dysfunction.

If clinically indicated, your GP may recommend thyroid function testing. In primary care, the TSH (thyroid-stimulating hormone) blood test is generally the first investigation, with additional thyroid hormone tests added where appropriate. Routine screening of people with no symptoms is generally not recommended. (SciELO)

Many thyroid symptoms overlap with other medical conditions.

For example:

• Iron deficiency
• Vitamin deficiencies
• Menopause
• Chronic stress
• Anxiety
• Diabetes
• Sleep disorders

This is why an accurate medical assessment is important rather than relying on internet searches or self-diagnosis.

While not every thyroid disorder can be prevented, maintaining good overall health remains important.

Helpful habits include:

• Eating a balanced diet
• Remaining physically active
• Managing stress
• Attending routine health assessments
• Discussing persistent symptoms with your GP
• Taking prescribed medication exactly as directed if diagnosed with thyroid disease

Early diagnosis often allows effective long-term management.

Our Loftus practice provides personalised, evidence-based medical care for patients throughout Loftus, Arcadia, Hatfield, Sunnyside and Pretoria Central.

We offer:

• Comprehensive GP consultations
• Investigation of persistent symptoms
• Preventative health assessments
• Routine blood tests where clinically indicated
• Chronic disease management
• Personalised long-term healthcare

We believe every patient deserves a thorough assessment and clear explanation of their symptoms and treatment options.

Can stress cause symptoms similar to thyroid disease?

Yes. Stress and thyroid disorders can share similar symptoms, which is why a proper medical assessment is important.

Is fatigue always caused by a thyroid problem?

No. Fatigue has many possible causes. Your GP will assess your symptoms and recommend appropriate investigations where necessary.

How are thyroid disorders diagnosed?

Diagnosis is based on your symptoms, medical examination and appropriate thyroid function testing where clinically indicated. (SciELO)

Should everyone have routine thyroid screening?

Routine thyroid screening is generally not recommended for people without symptoms or specific risk factors . Your GP will advise whether testing is appropriate based on your medical history and symptoms. (SciELO)

Are thyroid disorders treatable?

Many thyroid disorders can be successfully managed with ongoing medical care and regular follow-up.

• Could my symptoms be related to my thyroid?
• Would thyroid function tests be appropriate for me?
• Could another medical condition be causing these symptoms?
• Are my symptoms related to menopause or a thyroid disorder?
• How often should my thyroid function be monitored if diagnosed?

• Thyroid disorders are common and occur more frequently in women.
• Symptoms often develop gradually and can resemble stress or hormonal changes.
• Persistent symptoms should be assessed by a GP rather than self-diagnosed.
• Appropriate blood tests may be recommended when thyroid disease is suspected.
• Early diagnosis and ongoing management can help improve quality of life.

If you're experiencing ongoing fatigue, unexplained weight changes, or other symptoms that concern you, don't ignore them.

The experienced team at Dr Esti-Mari Knipe & Associates provides comprehensive GP care for patients in Loftus, Arcadia, Hatfield, Sunnyside and Pretoria Central , helping identify the cause of persistent symptoms and providing personalised medical care.