The thyroid gland, a small endocrine gland in the neck, produces T3 and T4 hormones. These hormones regulate metabolism, heart rate, body temperature, energy levels, and nervous system activity.

Master, Doctor Ha Dinh Khai, from the Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes at Tam Anh Hanoi General Hospital, states that abnormal increases or decreases in thyroid hormones can impact the brain. This often leads many individuals to experience frequent palpitations, difficulty sleeping, irritability, or sadness due to thyroid disease, without realizing the underlying cause.

Anxiety, insomnia when hormones increase

Hyperthyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland produces too many hormones, accelerating metabolism. This causes the heart to beat rapidly and strongly, leading to palpitations and a pounding heart sensation. Patients may experience restlessness, anxiety, insomnia, and difficulty concentrating. Some individuals constantly feel stressed, their minds never at rest, and are easily panicked by a fast heartbeat or shortness of breath.

According to Doctor Khai, these symptoms closely resemble anxiety disorders and can be easily mistaken for work-related stress.

A doctor consults a patient about thyroid health. Photo: Tam Anh General Hospital

A doctor consults a patient about thyroid health. Photo: Tam Anh General Hospital

Sluggishness when hormones decrease

Hypothyroidism is a condition where the body lacks thyroid hormones. Typical symptoms include: fatigue, drowsiness, weight gain, constipation, cold sensitivity, dry skin, and hair loss.

Regarding mental health, hypothyroidism reduces the levels of thyroid hormones (T3, T4), slowing down brain metabolism because nerve cells do not receive enough oxygen and energy. Poor connectivity between brain regions leads to slow information processing, resulting in reduced concentration, forgetfulness, slow reactions, lack of interest, and a tendency towards sadness.

Thyroid disorders can be mistaken for anxiety disorders or depression if only psychological symptoms are considered. Therefore, Doctor Khai advises that postpartum women, individuals with a history of thyroid disease, those with autoimmune conditions, or a family history of thyroid disease should be particularly vigilant if they experience unusual prolonged fatigue, insomnia, or mood changes. If you frequently experience palpitations, hand tremors, unexplained weight loss or gain, menstrual irregularities, an enlarged neck, or severe fatigue, you should seek medical attention. The doctor may order TSH, FT4, FT3 tests, a thyroid ultrasound, and other examinations depending on the case.

Patients should not self-medicate with sleeping pills, sedatives, weight-loss drugs, or discontinue thyroid medication on their own, even if symptoms improve.

Van Anh