Hyperthyroidism and Hypothyroidism in Runners: Symptoms, Treatments and the Impact on Your Training

Summary: If you’re dealing with a potential thyroid imbalance, finding treatment information specific to runners can be quite difficult. In addition to rather vague symptoms, the impact of hyper or hypo thyroidism on training and racing isn’t something discussed by most medical professionals or addressed in generalized articles. Luckily, RunnersConnect team doctor Melanie Schorr is not only an endocrinologist, but she’s an avid and experienced runner herself. Dr. Schorr was an All-American cross country runner while at Dartmouth College and she is conducting her fellowship at Harvard’s MGH in thyroid disorders. Dr. Schorr is on the show today to dig into depth about what the thyroid is, what it means to have an under and over active thyroid, how it impacts your training and racing, and the treatment methods. Here are some of the specific issues we discussed: What are some of the symptoms of a thyroid imbalance and how can runners tell the difference between training fatigue and a hormonal issue. The steps a runner can take to get it treated, including how to discuss with your doctor, treatment options, and important considerations when taking medication. The impact on training while on thyroid medication and expected length of treatment before you’ll see a change in your training and racing. Hyperthyroidism and Hypothyroidism in Runners: Symptoms, Treatments and the Impact on Your Training and Racin