A racing heart, shakiness, trouble sleeping and feeling on edge are classic signs of anxiety. They are also classic signs of an overactive thyroid. On the other side, an underactive thyroid can cause low mood, fatigue and slowed thinking that look like depression. Checking the thyroid is a simple step that can change the whole plan.
Overactive thyroid and anxiety
Hyperthyroidism speeds up the body. It can cause a fast or pounding heartbeat, tremor, sweating, heat intolerance, weight loss despite a good appetite, frequent bowel movements and nervousness.
Underactive thyroid and depression
Hypothyroidism slows the body. It can cause fatigue, low mood, weight gain, feeling cold, constipation, dry skin and foggy thinking.
The tests
A TSH blood test is the usual first check, often with a free T4. When anxiety or depression symptoms are new, or come with physical signs like these, your provider may order these tests or coordinate them with your primary care provider.
When both are true
Thyroid problems and anxiety or depression can happen together. Treating the thyroid often improves mood and anxiety, and any symptoms that remain are treated directly.
Our providers see adults in person in West Ashley and by secure video anywhere in South Carolina. Request an appointment; new patients are often able to be scheduled within a week of requesting an appointment.
This article is general health information and does not replace advice from your own provider.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. An overactive thyroid can cause a racing heart, tremor, sweating, poor sleep and nervousness that look like an anxiety disorder.
It can cause fatigue, low mood, weight gain and slowed thinking that resemble depression. Treating the thyroid often helps these symptoms.
A TSH test is the usual first check, often with a free T4 level.