Have you been feeling easily fatigued? Do you find that you have a lower tolerance to cold climate? These may be an indicator of hypothyroidism.

Located on the frontal part of the neck, thyroid gland produces important hormones that regulate body metabolism and growth and maturation of tissues of your body.

Hypothyroidism can be due to destruction of thyroid tissue or due to use of anti-thyroid antibodies. Sometimes, some medications can cause hypothyroidism. Later on, hypothyroidism will show severer problems like loss of appetite, weight gain, dry skin, hair loss, reduction in intellectual ability, hoarse voice, depression and irregular or lack of menstrual periods.

Sometimes, even babies are detected with hypothyroidism. As thyroid problems can also be present from birth. Major symptoms are Constipation, poor feeding, poor growth, jaundice, or excessive tiredness. If your baby is suffering form these symptoms, consult the pediatrician immediately.

While hypothyroidism means reduction in the production of the hormones, hyperthyroidism occurs when the production of the hormone increases beyond the normal level.

Hyperthyroidism can cause Grave's disease which is indicated primarily by bulged eyes. Hypothyroidism may also result in a tumor in the pituitary gland of the brain. Hyperthyroidism can be result of long-term goiter, where the thyroid gland of the neck swells noticeably.

Long-term hyperthyroidism can cause insomnia, tremors of hand, nervousness, excessive sweating, frequent bowel movements, joint pains, lessening or lack of menstrual periods, difficulty in concentrating.

If you or any one you know experience these symptoms, consult a doctor immediately.