Do Men Experience Thyroid Problems?

by | Jan 14, 2020 | Thyroid Conditions | 0 comments

Thyroid problems are associated more often with women than with men, but the announcement by the Society of Endocrinologists that the levels for the standard testing range for hypothyroidism were too low, in 2002, has led medical experts to believe that the incidence of thyroid disorders has been underreported in men. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, chat to your doctor at affordable health care in Las Vegas, because thyroid disorders are more common in men than you may think.

Hypothyroidism in Men

Hypothyroidism affects one in seven adults, and traditionally, is more common in woman than in men. In men, an underactive thyroid may present with dry skin, fatigue, weight gain, hair loss, intolerance of cold and constipation. Not all men will experience all symptoms, and some may be more severe than others.

Fibromyalgia is a condition that causes similar symptoms to hypothyroidism in men. This is a chronic condition characterized by fatigue and chronic muscle and joint pain. The two conditions are believed to be linked, but it is not understood why.

Hashimoto’s Disease

Hashimoto’s disease occurs when immune system antibodies decrease the amount of thyroid hormone being synthesized. It is a hereditary condition, and you may experience an enlarged thyroid or goiter, an intolerance to cold or difficulty swallowing as a result. In men, it is not uncommon for the hair to turn grey and for them to experience fertility problems.

Hyperthyroidism in Men

In men, hyperthyroidism tends to present with symptoms like breathlessness, muscle weakness, heart palpitations, hair loss, anxiety, insomnia, fatigue, diarrhea or greater frequency of bowel movements and heat intolerance. When hyperthyroidism first starts to develop, it may be difficult to detect, but over time, the symptoms are likely to progress.

Grave’s Disease

Grave’s disease occurs when the immune system fights against the thyroid. Men may exhibit swollen, itchy or bulging eyes. They may also experience weakness in their upper arms and upper legs and their perspiration may increase.

Opinions about treatment for thyroid disorders are vast and varied with some doctors holding the belief that thyroid function can restore itself in certain conditions. With other conditions, ongoing medication is required to keep the person healthy, especially if the body does not produce enough thyroid hormone and needs to be replaced in order to maintain normal functioning of bodily processes.

If you are a man and you suspect you may have a thyroid problem but have always thought of it as a condition that affects women, have yourself checked at clinics at Las Vegas and find a way to relieve your symptoms.