Your hands can reveal your thyroid problem

September 15, 2018 Grandma's Medicine Valli Sarvani No comments

Thyroid gland is one of the most vital glands in your body. Thyroid is a small butterfly-shaped gland located at the base of your neck. It produces hormones that regulate your body metabolism.

Thyroid disorders can be identified by measuring the thyroid hormone (T4 or thyroxine) and the thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) levels in the blood.

These days many people are suffering with thyroid problems. If the thyroid gland is overactive, the condition is referred to as hyperthyroidism; on the other hand, if the gland is underactive, it is known as hypothyroidism.

In hypothyroidism, thyroxine levels are low and TSH levels are high. In hyperthyroidism, the hormone levels are opposite.

Blood tests and radioactive iodine test can detect hypothyroidism.

However, your hands can reveal your thyroid problems. Here are the signs and symptoms that you need to watch out for.

Cold hands may be an indication of hypothyroidism. It is due to Homocysteine, an amino acid associated with the poor flow of blood.

It also indicates that vital nutrients are not being carried in blood to the hands and feet.

Clear wrinkles are visible on your hands due to hypothyroidism. Dry skin may also be another symptom.

Your skin may appear pale and yellow. The skin may also turn orange. Normally the discoloration is visible on your palms. This is an indication of decreased thyroid hormone levels in the body.

Not just hands, but your nails and nail beds turn yellow. Brittle nails are also visible. Lack of blood flow to the nails is one of the primary reason for them chipping off.

Onychomycosis is another common condition which is seen in hypothyroidism. Under this, the nails are prone to fungal infections which lead to their deterioration.

Hyperkeratosis of the nail bed is another condition where nail plate is detached from the nail bed. This is found in toenails.

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