Thyroid

An Underactive Thyroid is Not Exclusively a Woman’s Disease

An underactive thyroid can occur in men, although is is more common in women. Men with an thyroid gland that is not producing enough thyroid hormones can experience a number of symptoms, most of which are common to women also. These symptoms can include fatigue and feeling very sluggish, depression, constipation, dry, brittle hair, an increased sensitivity to cold, a low sex drive, unexplained weight gain, and hair loss. Continuous muscular pain persistent muscle cramps may also be a sign of malfunctioning of thyroid gland.

Hypothyroidism is the medical term used for a thyroid gland that does not produce an adequate supply of thyroid hormones. These hormones can be replaced with synthetic thyroid hormones prescribed by a doctor. If a blood test confirms that they are needed. This medication, taken orally, is typically taken for life. Of all the glands present in a man’s body, the thyroid is one of the most important. It stores and releases two essential hormones called T3 and T4 which control the normal functioning of the cells and tissues in men’s bodies.

Men who go undiagnosed with an underactive thyroid can experience complications such as obesity, high cholesterol, and infertility. Obesity may also be a result of overeating or unhealthy eating habits, but a sluggish thyroid will cause a slow metabolism,making it harder to lose those extra pounds. Unfortunately, many men suffer with the symptoms for a considerable period of time before even mentioning them to a physician.