The exact signs of a thyroid problem depend entirely on the specific problem the thyroid is experiencing. The thyroid is a gland that produces hormones vital to organ and metabolism function. The gland can cause problems when it produces too large or too little an amount of thyroid hormones. 

One general sign that can be a symptom of a thyroid problem is the development of a goiter. A goiter looks like a lump in your neck. It occurs when the thyroid gland is so overworked that it becomes swollen. An underactive thyroid, known as Hypothyroidism, or an overactive thyroid, known as Hyperthyroidism, can result in a goiter.

Hypothyroidism
Hypothyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland is underactive and doesn’t produce enough thyroid hormone. It is the most common type of thyroid problem. Hypothyroidism may cause the feeling of constant fatigue, but the problem can exist for years before any symptoms are noticed. Over time, however, serious symptoms can develop. Symptoms include fatigue, depression, weight gain, mood swings, constipation and a weak voice.

Hypothyroidism can be treated with a thyroid supplement prescribed by your doctor. The supplement slowly increases the thyroid hormone levels in your body. It can take several months after starting the treatment before any positive effects are noticed. Most cases of Hypothyroidism are permanent and require life-long treatment.

Hyperthyroidism
Hyperthyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland is overactive and produces too much thyroid hormone. The problem is found in women more often than men. Symptoms of an overactive gland can include weight loss, fatigue, tremors, excessive sweating, thin skin, change in vision and trouble sleeping.

The exact treatment needed for Hyperthyroidism depends on the cause of the problem. The problem can usually be managed with medications. Antithyroid drugs help slow the production of hormones from the thyroid gland. Radioactive iodine treatment is delivered in pill form and destroys the diseased thyroid cells to create an underactive thyroid. This underactive gland can then be controlled with basic thyroid supplements.

Thyroid Cancer
Your thyroid gland can sometimes develop cancer, resulting in a lump on your gland. These lumps are usually painless and are the only symptom of the cancer. If you have a lump on your throat, it’s important to consult with your doctor. It could be a harmless nodule, caused by growths on the thyroid gland, or it could be a cancerous growth.

If you are diagnosed with thyroid cancer, you will need to have the growth removed surgically. Your doctor may follow the surgery with radioactive iodine treatment. This treatment kills the thyroid cells. After the treatment you will have an underactive thyroid gland. The underactive gland can then be easily treated with life-long ingestion of thyroid supplements.