Could you have a thyroid problem?

Although the thyroid is a small organ, it has great impact. This tiny gland, located at the base of your neck, largely affects how well your body uses energy. It’s estimated that about 13 million Americans suffer from some type of thyroid disorder, and about twice as many women are affected as men.

If your thyroid releases too little hormone (called hypothyroidism, or underactive thyroid), your body is not using as much energy as it should. To find out if you might have hypothyroidism, take the following assessment from The Thyroid Society for Education and Research

Check each box that applies and then click the "Submit" button. This assessment should not be used to make your own diagnosis but rather as a tool to help identify your risks. Also, many symptoms of thyroid disorders are similar to those seen with other conditions. Only your doctor can provide a proper diagnosis.

I have a heart rate of 70 beats per minute or less.

I often feel slow or tired.

I often feel cold.

I’m often drowsy during the day, even after sleeping all night.

I have difficulty remembering things.

I often have trouble concentrating.

I suffer from muscle cramps and/or numbness in my arms and legs.

I have experienced unusual weight gain.

I’m often constipated.

My menstrual flow tends to be heavy.

My voice tends to be husky.

I often feel depressed.

My skin is dry and coarse.

I’ve noticed milky discharge from my breasts.