Iodine is an essential mineral that plays a key role in optimizing the function of the thyroid gland. The gland uses this mineral to produce thyroid hormones that help in growth, energy production and brain development. Since the thyroid gland performs such critical functions, even a minor dip in its performance is serious. It leads to a condition called hypothyroidism, which is closely associated with iodine deficiency.

Pregnant women, vegans, and vegetarians and those who do not use iodized salt are particularly at high risk of iodine deficiency. While you must know whether you fall in high-risk groups, there is also a need to be aware of the common symptoms of iodine deficiency. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent major problems in the long run. Here are the common signs of iodine deficiency that you must not ignore.

Unexpected weight gain

If you are eating a balanced diet and following an active lifestyle but still gaining weight, you may be low on iodine. Primarily, lack of iodine slows down the production of thyroid hormones. These hormones regulate your metabolism and speed up the process of burning calories. So do get a check-up if you are experiencing unexplained weight gain.

Swelling in the neck

Perhaps the first visible manifestation of iodine deficiency is a swelling in your neck. When your body is low on this mineral, the thyroid gland in your neck gets enlarged and becomes visible as a swelling. This happens because the gland tries to absorb iodine from the blood when it does not get enough. This is a sign that you must take seriously and seek treatment at the earliest.

Constant fatigue

A feeling of constant fatigue and tiredness is another indication that you must not overlook. Once again, low iodine levels affect the thyroid functioning and the metabolic rate drops. You may feel weak and tired even without indulging in strenuous physical activity. If the feeling does not resolve even after taking adequate rest, you must pay heed to the signal and get yourself a diagnostic test.

Feeling cold

Another iodine deficiency symptom that is attributed to a slower metabolic rate is constantly feeling cold. When your metabolism slows down, your body produces less energy. As energy gives you warmth, your body temperature falls when it is insufficient and you tend to feel cold and clammy. If you constantly feel cold even in hot weather, you must have yourself examined by an expert.

Excessive hair loss

Losing hair is a common phenomenon and is considered normal unless it happens excessively. One of the myriad functions that the thyroid gland performs is the renewal of hair follicles. Obviously, if you have a deficiency, you will keep losing hair but not get them replaced by new hair. In severe cases, bald patches may appear due to excess loss of hair.

Dry skin

Besides hair loss, dry skin is another form in which iodine deficiency may be visible. The dry and flaky appearance of the skin is commonly associated with hypothyroidism. This is because the gland is responsible for the renewal of skin cells. When it fails to work properly, the dead cells will not be replaced with the new ones and the skin will appear dull and dry.

Learning and memory problems

In addition to the physical symptoms, you may also come across some cognitive ones when you are short of iodine. Thyroid hormones promote brain development and they are unable to carry out this task due to the inadequacy of iodine. Consequently, you may not be able to learn and retain things. This symptom is easy to ignore but definitely deserves your attention.

Erratic heart rate

A disconcerting sign of low iodine levels in your body is an erratic heart rate. If your heart beats slower than usual, it is a definitive indication of low levels of this mineral. A severe deficiency can lead to an abnormally slow heart rate. Be aware of the warning signs that accompany it. These include excessive weakness, fatigue, dizziness, and fainting spells.

Irregular or heavy period

A symptom that females suffering from iodine deficiency experience are irregular or heavy period. Once again, the condition is attributed to the inadequate functioning of the thyroid hormone. Women need to be extra careful about these symptoms because only proper treatment guarantees a safe pregnancy for them. Remember that a lack of iodine can cause several complications during pregnancy.

Now that you know all about the common symptoms of iodine deficiency, the condition becomes easy to identify, monitor and control. The best approach is to seek medical treatment from an expert and get the problem resolved at the earliest.