Hot flashes, sleepless nights, irritability, difficulty concentrating and changes in the body. For many women, especially between 45 and 55 years old, the age group in which menopause usually occurs, these signs are seen as a natural part of this phase of life. However, endocrine gynecologist Dr. Igor Trotte explains that the hormonal drop is not always solely responsible for the changes that arise during this period.

Thyroid dysfunction, especially hypothyroidism, can also cause similar manifestations, making it more difficult to identify the source of the problem. “Complaints such as tiredness, mood swings, difficulty concentrating, worsening sleep, weight changes, hair loss and skin changes can occur both during menopause and in some thyroid diseases”, explains the doctor.

Below, check out points that help you better understand the differences between menopause and thyroid problems.

1. Hot flashes are often more common during menopause

The famous hot flashes are among the most striking characteristics of menopause. They can appear suddenly, accompanied by excessive sweating, redness and an intense feeling of heat. In menopauseit is common to observe manifestations associated with the reduction of estrogen, such as hot flashes, night sweats, worsening sleep quality, vaginal dryness, pain during sexual intercourse and menstrual changes in the transition period.

2. Sensitivity to cold can be a warning for hypothyroidism

While many menopausal women report excessive heat, those with hypothyroidism often feel the opposite. Greater sensitivity to cold, excessive drowsiness, constipation and dry skin may indicate a reduction in thyroid activity and deserve medical investigation.

3. Palpitations and tremors may indicate excess thyroid hormones

Not all thyroid dysfunction is associated with slower metabolism. Node hyperthyroidismwhen the gland produces excess hormones, the body tends to accelerate its functioning. Palpitations, tremors, anxiety, unexplained weight loss and heat intolerance are among the most common signs.

Complaints do not always reveal the origin of the problem

Despite the differences, identifying the cause just by observing the signs is not always possible. There is a lot of overlap between the conditions and it is not always possible to differentiate them just based on the patient’s complaints. Medical evaluation remains essential. Therefore, women who live with persistent manifestations should not automatically assume that everything is related to menopause.

When thyroid changes are suspected, tests such as TSH and free T4 are usually the main research allies. In some cases, tests may also be requested to evaluate autoimmune diseases. Menopause, in turn, is usually identified by the combination of age, menstrual history and symptoms presented. Depending on the situation, hormonal tests can complement the evaluation.

Individual assessment makes all the difference

Thyroid diseases become more frequent with advancing age and are often discovered during the investigation of complaints initially attributed to menopause. “It is important to understand that women at this stage need to be assessed globally. Not everything is menopause, but not everything is thyroid either. Adequate treatment depends on the correct identification of the main factor involved”, concludes Dr. Igor Trotte.

If persistent tiredness, mood changes, difficulty concentrating, weight gain or hair loss are compromising your quality of life, seeking medical advice is the best way to obtain an accurate diagnosis and initiate the most appropriate treatment.

By Juliana Magalhães