Recognising Thyroid Symptoms in Teenage Girls
Know how to recognise the thyroid symptoms, causes and how does it affect the teenagers thyroid and overall health.
Written by Dr. Mohammed Kamran
Reviewed by Dr. Dhankecha Mayank Dineshbhai MBBS
Last updated on 22nd Jul, 2025
Introduction
Thyroid problems are common, especially among teenage girls, but they often go unnoticed because the symptoms can be mistaken for normal teenage changes. The thyroid produces hormones that regulate metabolism, growth, and energy levels. When it doesn’t function properly, it can lead to hypothyroidism, i.e. underactive thyroid or hyperthyroidism,i.e. overactive thyroid.
Recognising the signs early can help manage the condition effectively and prevent complications. Here’s what you need to know.
Common Thyroid Symptoms in Teenage Girls
It can be divided in to two types as hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism symptoms
1. Hypothyroidism
When the thyroid doesn’t produce enough hormones, the body slows down. Symptoms include:
Fatigue and sluggishness
Feeling unusually tired despite adequate sleep.
Weight gain
Unexplained weight gain even with normal eating habits.
Cold sensitivity
Feeling excessively cold when others are comfortable.
Dry skin and hair
Skin may become rough, and hair may thin or become brittle
Irregular periods
Heavier, longer, or more painful menstrual cycles.
Mood swings and depression
Increased irritability, sadness, or brain fog.
Constipation
Slower digestion leads to frequent constipation.
2. Hyperthyroidism
When the thyroid produces too much hormone, the body speeds up. Symptoms include:
Rapid weight loss
Losing weight without trying, despite eating normally.
Increased heart rate or palpitations
Feeling like the heart is racing.
Anxiety and nervousness
Feeling jittery, restless, or overly anxious.
Sweating and heat intolerance
Feeling too warm even in cool environments.
Tremors or shaky hands
Noticeable trembling in hands or fingers.
Difficulty sleeping
Trouble falling or staying asleep.
Irregular periods
Lighter or missed periods.
Consult endocrinologist for thyroid health advice
What Causes Thyroid Disorders in Teenagers?
Several factors can contribute to thyroid problems in teenage girls:
Autoimmune disorders
Hashimoto’s disease, leading to hypothyroidism.
Graves’ disease, causing hyperthyroidism are common cause.
Family history
If a parent or sibling has thyroid issues, the risk increases.
Iodine deficiency
The thyroid needs iodine to produce hormones; a lack of it can cause dysfunction.
Stress and hormonal changes
Puberty and stress can sometimes trigger thyroid imbalances.
How Thyroid Issues Affect Health?
If left untreated, thyroid disorders can lead to:
Growth and development delays
Affecting height and puberty progression.
Poor concentration and academic struggles
Brain fog and fatigue can impact school performance.
Heart problems
Hypothyroidism can raise cholesterol, while hyperthyroidism can strain the heart.
Bone weakness
Excess thyroid hormone can weaken bones over time.
Fertility issues later in life
Irregular periods now may signal future reproductive health concerns.
Tips for Managing Thyroid Health
If your teenager is experiencing symptoms, here’s what you can do:
1. Get a Thyroid Test
A simple blood test (TSH, T3, T4 levels) can diagnose thyroid disorders. If symptoms persist, consult a doctor.
2. Maintain a Balanced Diet
Iodine-rich foods
Seafood, dairy, and iodized salt support thyroid function.
Selenium and zinc
Found in nuts, eggs, and whole grains, these help hormone production.
Avoid processed foods
Excess sugar and unhealthy fats can worsen symptoms.
3. Exercise Regularly
Moderate physical activity helps regulate metabolism and energy levels.
4. Manage Stress
Yoga, meditation, and proper sleep can help balance hormones.
5. Follow Medical Advice
If diagnosed, medications like thyroxine for hypothyroidis can help restore balance. Regular check-ups are essential.
When to See a Doctor?
If your teen has multiple symptoms, especially fatigue, weight changes, mood swings, or irregular periods, consult a doctor. Early treatment prevents complications.
Final Thoughts
Thyroid disorders are manageable with the right care. By staying aware of symptoms and taking timely action, teenage girls can maintain good health and well-being.
Consult endocrinologist for thyroid health advice
Consult endocrinologist for thyroid health advice
Dr. B Rachana
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
8 Years • MBBS, Fellowship in Diabetes, Fellowship in Applied Nutrition,CCEBDM(Diabetes)
Bengaluru
Apollo Clinic, JP nagar, Bengaluru
Dr. Tripti Sharma
Endocrinologist
7 Years • DM Endocrinology MD Medicine
Hyderabad
Apollo Hospitals D R D O kanchanbagh, Hyderabad
(75+ Patients)
Dr. Krishna G Seshadri
Endocrinologist
22 Years • MBBS, AB certified
Chennai
Apollo Hospitals Greams Road, Chennai
(75+ Patients)
Dr. Mohammad Sharfraz Ahamed
Endocrinologist
6 Years • MD GENERAL MEDICINE(KURNOOL MEDICAL COLLEGE), DM Endocrinology(SKIMS, Deemed university)
Nellore
Apollo Speciality Hospitals, Nellore
Dr. Ramkumar S
Endocrinologist
13 Years • MBBS, MD, DNB (Diabetes & Endocrinology), DM (Diabetes & Endocrinology), AIIMS Fellow (Diabetes/Insulin Pumps, Sexual Medicine)
Chennai
Apollo Hospitals Greams Road, Chennai
(150+ Patients)
Consult endocrinologist for thyroid health advice
Dr. B Rachana
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
8 Years • MBBS, Fellowship in Diabetes, Fellowship in Applied Nutrition,CCEBDM(Diabetes)
Bengaluru
Apollo Clinic, JP nagar, Bengaluru
Dr. Tripti Sharma
Endocrinologist
7 Years • DM Endocrinology MD Medicine
Hyderabad
Apollo Hospitals D R D O kanchanbagh, Hyderabad
(75+ Patients)
Dr. Krishna G Seshadri
Endocrinologist
22 Years • MBBS, AB certified
Chennai
Apollo Hospitals Greams Road, Chennai
(75+ Patients)
Dr. Mohammad Sharfraz Ahamed
Endocrinologist
6 Years • MD GENERAL MEDICINE(KURNOOL MEDICAL COLLEGE), DM Endocrinology(SKIMS, Deemed university)
Nellore
Apollo Speciality Hospitals, Nellore
Dr. Ramkumar S
Endocrinologist
13 Years • MBBS, MD, DNB (Diabetes & Endocrinology), DM (Diabetes & Endocrinology), AIIMS Fellow (Diabetes/Insulin Pumps, Sexual Medicine)
Chennai
Apollo Hospitals Greams Road, Chennai
(150+ Patients)
