Fatigue, weight gain, brain fog, mood swings – a quick search will tell you those are symptoms of both (either?) hypothyroidism and perimenopause. It can be confusing to try to figure out if your symptoms are from perimenopause or thyroid problems.
Let’s get into some more detail. Also, a caveat – it could be both.
What is perimenopause?
Perimenopause is the four to ten years of transitioning between regular menstrual cycles and reliable hormone changes, and menopause when menstrual cycles stop and the body’s production of estrogen and progesterone significantly reduce or even stop. And this time of transition is rarely straightforward, and the fluctuations lead to some unusual symptoms: –
- Night sweats
- Hot flashes
- Moodiness and rage out of nowhere
- Insomnia
- Fatigue
- Brain fog
- Bloating
- Sore joints
- Anxiety
- Itchy ears
- Irregular menstrual cycles
- Changes in menstrual cycle bleeding
What are thyroid disorders?
The thyroid gland is an endocrine organ that sits in the neck that produces thyroid hormones (T3 and T4) which help our metabolism function.
Underfunctioning thyroid glands (hypothyroidism) are pretty common around middle age and and are usually tested through a blood test.
Common symptoms include:
- Weight gain
- Fatigue
- Often feeling cold
- Constipation
- Dry skin
- Depression or sluggishness
- Heavy menstrual bleeding
- Brain fog
The thyroid gland occasionally can go into over-functioning mode (hyperthyroidism) which has a different set of symptoms:
- Anxiety
- Palpitations
- Often feeling hot
- Weight loss
Why do the symptoms of thyroid disorders and perimenopause seem so similar?
Both the thyroid gland and the sex hormones (estrogen and progesterone) influence mood, digestion, energy, metabolism, and even menstrual cycles.
How can I tell if it is perimenopause or thyroid disorders?
There are a few clinical clues, but the best way is to just test your hormones – both thyroid and sex hormones. But here are some “slightly more likely” clues:
Perimenopause:
- Irregular menstruation (shorter together and longer apart)
- Hot flashes and night sweats
- Breast tenderness
- Symptoms changing month-to-month
Thyroid:
- Slowed heart rate
- Dry skin
- Symptoms are not variable and just keep progressing
Should I get my thyroid checked just in case?
Yes, checking your thyroid should be part of your annual bloodwork. I like to test not only TSH (the hormone that your brain uses to talk to your thyroid) and Total T3 and T4, Free T3 and T4 (the actual hormones produced by the thyroid), and if they’ve never been run before I also like to run the thyroid antibodies.
Can you have both perimenopause and thyroid problems at the same time?
Yes! So, if you’re in your 40’s and you’re noticing some fatigue, weight gain, bloating, and things feel “off” it’s worth checking it out. It could be perimenopause, hypothyroidism, or a little of both.
Need support with perimenopause or thyroid problems? Book a consultation
Follow us on Instagram to learn more from our team.
Dr. Jennifer Potter, ND
Naturopathic Doctor San Jose
408-356-1364
Dr. Jennifer Potter, ND provides natural healthcare solutions for families and individuals, focusing on perimenopause/menopause, autoimmune conditions, fatigue, and immune support. She is deeply committed to her patient’s well being, prioritizes patient education and combines natural and conventional therapies to deliver personalized care. Outside of her practice, she enjoys time with her two kids, reading fiction, and crocheting.
