Hypothyroidism In Men
Hypothyroidism in men – Thyroid disease in men involves many of the same symptoms as those that affect women with a thyroid disorder. Men do experience the symptoms in thyroid some of which you may not immediately associate with. Such as erectile dysfunction, muscle ache, low sperm count, etc. Let us discuss in brief below about hypothyroidism in men.
The thyroid gland produces more thyroid hormones than your body requires. And this condition called hypothyroidism. Considered as “Overactive thyroid.” It can harm the health of your heart, muscles, semen quality, and more if not treated effectively.
What are the symptoms of thyroid in males?
The symptoms of the thyroid are distinctive in men.
“Men with either of these conditions will probably feel fatigued and muscle weakness predominantly, in their arms and thighs. This may result in difficulty in climbing stairs or combing hair.”
Causes of hyperthyroidism in men
The most common cause of hyperthyroidism for men is Graves’ disease is, though women are still more likely to develop this autoimmune disorder.
In this condition the immune system mistakenly attacks a healthy thyroid gland, causing it to produce too much thyroid hormone. It usually develops between the ages of 30 and 50, though it can form at any age.
Other causes include
- nodules, which are abnormal clusters of thyroid cells within the gland
- Plummer’s disease, also known as toxic nodular goiter, which is more common in women and people over age 60
- thyroiditis, any of several conditions that cause inflammation of the thyroid gland
- too much iodine intake from medicines or diet
Diagnosis of hyperthyroidism in men
Just because women may be more likely to develop hyperthyroidism, doesn’t mean that men shouldn’t be tested as their risks increase. You should have noticeable symptoms evaluated. You should also be screened for hyperthyroidism if you have a family history of thyroid disease or are over age 60. Likewise, you may be at higher risk if you have type 2 diabetes, in which case, you should consider thyroid disease screening.
Hyperthyroidism evaluation starts with a review of your medical history and symptoms. Your doctor may look to see if you have a tremor and changes in your eyes or skin. They may also check if you have overactive reflexes. All of these may indicate an overactive thyroid.
How to treat hyperthyroidism in men?
The treatment of hyperthyroidism problems in men depends on the cause behind it and the severity of the condition.
The treatment of thyroid includes
- Oral medicines
- Radioactive iodine treatment or
- Surgery
- The treatment depends on the patient’s age, sex and even taking their preference into account.
General symptoms of hyperthyroidism
- unexpected weight loss, even when food consumption and appetite remain unchanged
- irregular heartbeat
- heart palpitations
- nervousness
- irritability
- fatigue
- tremor (usually trembling of the fingers and hands)
- sweating
- increased sensitivity to heat and/or cold
- more frequent bowel movements
- muscle weakness
- hair thinning
Does thyroid cause erectile dysfunction?
Yes, the thyroid can cause erectile dysfunction. With hypothyroidism, sperm abnormalities are commonly found in men. Thyroid somewhere affects the men’s sexual health badly and may, therefore, affect their fertility as well.
The outlook of hyperthyroidism in men
Don’t wait to be tested for this disorder. If diagnosed with hyperthyroidism but don’t yet have any noticeable symptoms, still follow through with your doctor’s advice about treatment. Discuss all the risks and benefits of various treatment options before committing to one approach.
Conclusion
Mentioned above is the entire information about hypothyroidism in men that clarifies the symptoms, causes, and treatment for hypothyroidism condition in men. It would be better if the diseases get diagnosed at an early stage by analyzing all the possible symptoms. This provides the ease of time to get treated and turns your health back to normal.
