Thyroid disorders are commonly linked to weight gain, weight loss, and fatigue. However, medical experts caution that unmanaged thyroid problems can quietly affect multiple vital systems in the body including digestion, immunity, and kidney function, often before obvious symptoms appear.
According to Dr Chirag Tandon, Director of Internal Medicine at ShardaCare Healthcity, thyroid hormones play a crucial role in regulating how different organs function. When thyroid levels are imbalanced, the effects can be widespread and sometimes overlooked.
Impact on Gut Health
Thyroid disorders significantly influence digestion. In hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid), slowed metabolism can lead to constipation, bloating, and poor nutrient absorption. Essential nutrients such as iodine, selenium, iron, and vitamin B12, all important for thyroid and overall health may not be absorbed efficiently.
Dr Tandon explains that nearly 20% of the conversion of inactive thyroid hormone (T4) to its active form (T3) happens in the gut. An unhealthy gut microbiome can interfere with this process, worsening symptoms even if blood tests appear normal.
On the other hand, hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid) speeds up gut movement, often causing frequent bowel motions, diarrhoea, and gut inflammation. Over time, this imbalance may contribute to food sensitivities and systemic inflammation.
Effects on Immunity
Many thyroid disorders, such as Hashimoto’s thyroiditis and Graves’ disease, are autoimmune conditions. In these cases, the immune system mistakenly attacks the thyroid gland.
Hypothyroidism can weaken immune responses, making people more prone to frequent infections, slow wound healing, and persistent tiredness. Hyperthyroidism may overstimulate the immune system, increasing inflammation and the risk of autoimmune flare-ups affecting joints, skin, and overall wellbeing.
Kidney Function at Risk
Thyroid hormones also regulate blood flow to the kidneys and influence how efficiently waste is filtered. Low thyroid levels can slow kidney function, causing fluid retention, low sodium levels, and reduced filtration capacity. In hyperthyroidism, kidneys may work harder, which can temporarily mask early signs of kidney disease.
Doctors stress that regular check-ups and early detection are essential, as thyroid issues can silently affect multiple organs, not just weight and energy levels.
