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Thyroid Problems Hypo - thyroidism and Hyper-thyroidism are two conditions that arise from the thyroid gland not functioning properly.   Hypo-thyroidism is the most common form. This is when the thyroid is ‘under' performing. The opposite (Hyper-thyroidism) is when the thyroid is ‘over' performing. Hyper-thyroidism occurs when there is an excess of thyroid hormones communicating with your bodies cells to do their job. Hyper-thyroidism is uncommon while Hypo-thyroidism is the most common form of thyroid problem.  Here are some symptoms of Hyperthyroidism:   Here are some symptoms of Hypothyroidism Sweating Anxiety and Excitability Thirst Racing heart Hunger Muscle weakness Shortness of breath High blood pressure Insomnia Weight loss Cold hands and feet Chronic fatigue Lethargy and fatigue Emotional instability Depression Cold skin Decreased sweating Heat or cold intolerance Weight gain greater than 2Kg Coarse and/or dry skin Constipation Acne or psoriasis Yellowish coloured palms Puffiness under eyes Slight swelling around ankles Brittle nails Muscle weakness, cramps, joint aches, pain or stiffness Heart enlargement or palpitations High cholesterol or triglycerides (blood fats) Diabetes Carpel Tunnel Syndrome Thick tongue Impaired memory Slowed mental activity Heavy menstruation Painful menstruation Dry hair or hair loss Delayed Achilles tendon reflex return Small or large birth weight babies Left handedness - particularly males As you can see, there can be numerous symptoms of hypothyroidism. The more common symptoms are highlighted at the top in bold. Some individuals will have the same symptoms predominate over time e.g. cold hands/feet, lack of energy, low mood. Unless there is an unrelated condition that affects circulation (i.e. some kind of peripheral vascular disease like Raynauds disease) cold hands and feet are most likely a sign of an underactive thyroid.