What Are the Signs of Thyroid Problems in Men?

The thyroid gland produces hormones that affect many different organ systems throughout the body. Thyroid disorders can therefore cause a wide range of symptoms. Many of the symptoms of thyroid disease are the same in men and women. However, some symptoms of thyroid disorders are unique to men. Please continue reading to find out some of the signs and symptoms of a thyroid condition in men.

What is the thyroid gland?

The thyroid gland is a small butterfly-shaped gland in the neck. It is an endocrine gland, meaning it makes and releases important hormones into the bloodstream. Thyroid function is controlled by the pituitary gland in the brain through a hormone called the thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH).

The two thyroid hormones, triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4), help to control many important functions in the body, including metabolism, body temperature, bone and muscle function, heart and brain function, gastrointestinal function, mood, and more.  

When the thyroid gland makes either too much thyroid hormone or too little thyroid hormone, it results in a thyroid disorder or disease. There are various types of thyroid diseases, for example, hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, goiter, Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, and thyroid cancer.

What causes thyroid disease in males?

Thyroid disease is up to 10 times more common in females than in males. However, men can develop thyroid disorders and experience symptoms just like women. In addition to some of the same symptoms that women experience, thyroid issues can cause symptoms that are unique to men. 

According to the American Thyroid Association, these are some common thyroid disorders and their causes and symptoms. 

Underactive Thyroid Gland

The most common cause of underactive thyroid gland (called hypothyroidism) is Hashimoto’s disease. Hashimoto’s is an autoimmune condition that occurs when the immune system attacks healthy cells in the body. According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDKD), this autoimmune disease tends to run in families and can affect women up to 10 times more often than men. Therefore, family history and gender are risk factors for Hashimoto’s disease and resultant hypothyroidism. 

Symptoms of untreated hypothyroidism that are common to men and women include weight gain, dry skin, hair loss, feeling cold, tiredness, constipation, joint pain, muscle aches, depression, memory problems, and an enlarged thyroid gland.

Overactive Thyroid Gland

The most common cause of overactive thyroid (called hyperthyroidism) is Graves’ disease, which is also an autoimmune disorder. This thyroid issue is up to 8 times more common in women than men. 

Common symptoms of hyperthyroidism in men and women include weight loss despite an increased appetite, feeling hot, fast heartbeat, palpitations, tremor (shaking), sweating, anxiety, nervousness, tiredness, sleep problems, muscle weakness, and an enlarged thyroid gland.

Goiter and Thyroid Nodules

Chronic inflammation of the thyroid, such as in people with Hashimoto’s disease, can result in the formation of enlarged thyroid nodules. Multinodular goiter is an enlargement of the thyroid gland that occurs due to iodine deficiency. These thyroid disorders are up to 4 times more common in women than men.

Classic symptoms of goiter and thyroid nodules include a swelling in the neck and difficulty breathing or swallowing. If the nodules produce excess thyroid hormones, it can result in hyperthyroidism. If there is inflammation of the thyroid, it can be associated with symptoms of hypothyroidism.

Thyroid Cancer

Cancer of the thyroid gland occurs due to uncontrolled growth of thyroid cells. Every year, some 12,000 men and 33,000 women develop this type of cancer in the US.

Signs and symptoms of cancer of the thyroid in men and women include a lump in the neck that can be felt and/or seen, discomfort when wearing tight collars, changes in the voice, difficulty swallowing, pain in the throat, and swollen lymph nodes in the neck.

How does a man know if he has a thyroid problem?

There are some symptoms of thyroid problems that are specific to men, such as:

• Thinning hair and hair loss
• Reduced libido (sex drive)
• Low sperm count
• Low testosterone levels
• Erectile dysfunction
• Delayed ejaculation
• Premature ejaculation
• Gynecomastia (male breast enlargement)
• Loss of muscle mass and muscle strength

It is worth noting that these are nonspecific signs and symptoms that may be due to thyroid disease or other causes. For example, a number of things can cause you to gain weight despite a healthy diet and regular exercise. If you suspect a thyroid disorder, you should make an appointment and be evaluated by your healthcare provider.

Remember that treating an underlying thyroid disease can significantly improve symptoms in men and women. 

How do doctors diagnose thyroid disorders in men?

The diagnosis of a thyroid disorder is the same in men and women. However, healthcare providers frequently do not correlate symptoms to thyroid disease in men because it is not nearly as common as in women. In addition, thyroid dysfunction usually affects men over the age of 40 and causes generalized, non-specific symptoms that can be attributed to other causes such as age and weight gain. 

If you are a man and suspect a thyroid disorder, talk to your healthcare provider. They may order certain tests to get to the bottom of things, based on your symptoms, medical history, and physical exam. These tests may include:

• Blood tests to check thyroid hormone levels and identify a hormone deficiency or excess.
• Imaging tests, such as ultrasound, CT scan, and MRI to look for thyroid enlargement.
• Radioactive iodine uptake (RAI-U) test.

What is the treatment for thyroid diseases in men?

The treatment for thyroid symptoms in men and women depends on whether they are due to hypothyroidism (not enough hormones) or hyperthyroidism (excess hormones).

Hypothyroidism is usually treated with thyroid hormone replacement medication. Examples of hormone therapy include levothyroxine (Synthroid, Levothroid, Levoxyl, Unithroid, Tirosint), which is a synthetic thyroid hormone T4. You need to take this medication for the rest of your life. Other medications that may be prescribed include liothyronine (Cytomel), which is synthetic T3, and desiccated thyroid extract (DTE), which has both T3 and T4. 

Conditions resulting in hyperthyroidism (when you produce hormones in excess) are usually treated with antithyroid medications, such as propylthiouracil and methimazole (Tapazole). You may need to take antithyroid medicine long-term. However, you may be able to get off antithyroid medication if your thyroid hormone levels return to normal. Other treatment options for hyperthyroidism include radioactive iodine ablation or radiation therapy to destroy thyroid tissue and thyroidectomy (thyroid surgery to remove part of the gland). These treatments can ultimately lead to hypothyroidism, which will require treatment.

References:

1. https://www.thyroid.org/thyroid-information/
2. https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/endocrine-diseases/hashimotos-disease
3. https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/endocrine-diseases/graves-disease#
4. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/thyroid-nodules/symptoms-causes/syc-20355262
5. https://www.cdc.gov/cancer/thyroid/index.htm#
6. https://academic.oup.com/bmb/article/99/1/39/298307?login=false
7. https://www.liebertpub.com/doi/10.1089/105072504323024552
8. https://linkinghub.elsevier.com/retrieve/pii/S0025712512000144

Can Men Have Thyroid Problems?

Though it’s common to associate certain thyroid disorders with women, men can also experience issues with their thyroid gland. One such condition is known as hypothyroidism.

What Is Hypothyroidism in Males?

Hypothyroidism is a medical condition that causes you to have an underactive thyroid gland.  

The thyroid is responsible for the regulation of your metabolism with the help of two important hormones called T3 (triiodothyronine) and T4 (thyroxine). When your thyroid produces less of these essential hormones, it starts to slow down your body’s energy, which in turn, slows down your metabolism—thus affecting other bodily functions.

Facts About Hypothyroidism in Males

• It’s estimated that 20 million Americans are living with some type of thyroid disease, but approximately 60% of them are unaware of their condition (American Thyroid Association).

• Men and women can be born with hypothyroidism or develop it at a later age (Cleveland Clinic).

• Women are 5 times more likely to be diagnosed with a thyroid disorder than men (Cleveland Clinic).

• Hypothyroidism can contribute to other men’s health issues, including high cholesterol (National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases).  

• Stress can worsen your thyroid condition and symptoms (Northwestern Medicine®)

Hypothyroidism in Males: Symptoms 

Unfortunately, thyroid conditions are not preventable, and both men and women will experience similar and different symptoms. 

Common symptoms may include, among others:

• Fatigue 

• Increased sensitivity to cold

• Dry skin

• Weight gain

• Elevated blood cholesterol level

• Thinning hair

• Low libido and erectile dysfunction

• Depression 

• Impaired memory

• Enlarged thyroid gland (goiter)

It’s important to note that, although only 16% of U.S. men are at risk of developing thyroid issues, that number is likely to increase as you age. 

Therefore, the sooner you meet with a men’s health expert to evaluate your health, the less chance you have of a condition like hypothyroidism impacting your quality of life.  

Hypothyroidism in Males: Diagnosis & Treatment

Over time, untreated hypothyroidism can lead to more significant health conditions like obesity, joint problems, and heart disease. Therefore, it’s essential that you meet with a men’s health expert if you’re experiencing any of the aforementioned symptoms, or if thyroid issues run in your family.

What To Expect At EveresT Men’s Health

At EveresT Men’s Health, our medical providers will evaluate your symptoms and ask you for a blood test to help us identify whether or not your thyroid is underactive. 

It’s important to note here that many of the symptoms we mentioned earlier may also be caused by other health-related conditions, such as low testosterone (Low T). Therefore, it’s important for us to assess the root cause of your symptoms, so we can prescribe the most effective path forward. 

If results confirm that you do have hypothyroidism, the next step is working with you to design a proactive treatment plan for your  thyroid issue, so you can start feeling re-energized and balanced.  

Depending on your health history and needs, the most common treatment for this particular condition is thyroid hormone replacement therapy. Once administered, our team will monitor your symptoms and check for signs of improvement along your journey. 

And as your needs change, so will your treatment plan so that it’s always working toward helping you conquer each new day.

Questions about Hypothyroidism?

If you’d like to learn more about this condition, and how EveresT Men’s Health can help you get back on track with optimal health and wellness, contact us today!

You can also schedule an appointment at one of our three convenient locations in Eagan, Plymouth, or Woodbury. 

To learn about our other men’s health services, including treatment for Low T, ED, or high blood pressure, browse our medical services page for further information! 

Thyroid gland disease symptoms and its treatment in women and men

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Author of the article

Galkina Polina Mikhailovna, gynecologist-endocrinologist

All authors

Article contents

• Thyroid gland: functions
• Why does the thyroid gland hurt?
• First symptoms of thyroid disease
• Signs of thyroid disease
• Which doctor deals with the treatment of the thyroid gland

The thyroid gland belongs to the endocrine system, is located above the larynx on the neck and consists of two lobes, which are connected by the isthmus. It got its name due to the shape resembling a shield or a butterfly. It begins to work on the tenth week of the fetal life, therefore it affects the body even during fetal development. At the time of birth, iron weighs no more than 3 g and gradually increases with the growth of a person. In men, the normal volume does not exceed 25 cm³, in women – 18 cm³, at which it is not visible or palpable.

Thyroid gland: functions

The thyroid gland, as an endocrine organ, produces hormones, controlling the energy exchange of cells throughout the body. Therefore, it is directly involved in protein synthesis, the breakdown of fats and the metabolism of carbohydrates.

The thyroid gland produces hormones such as:

• Thyroxine – activates cellular metabolic processes
• Triiodothyronine – is responsible for metabolism, organ development, heart function and body temperature
• Thyrocalcitonin – affects the speed of muscle and nervous tissue impulses, stimulates the exchange and renewal of bone tissue

Therefore, hormonal imbalance affects the development and vital activity of the whole organism, leads to serious endocrine diseases.

Why does the thyroid gland hurt?

In the thyroid gland, as well as other organs, pain can be observed, which indicates the presence of pathological processes. There are several causes leading to the development of diseases and having characteristic symptoms.

• Iodine deficiency as a result of insufficient intake of iodine in the body, on which the production of thyroxine and triiodothyronine depends. These hormones contain iodine atoms and absorb them when they come from outside with food, and the thyroid gland accumulates them. With iodine deficiency, the synthesis of hormones is disrupted, therefore, iodine deficiency diseases occur, such as: diffuse non-toxic goiter, nodular and multinodular euthyroid goiter, thyrotoxicosis and hypothyroidism, including congenital. In this case, a person may not experience pain, except for weakness and fatigue. But when the disease begins to progress, the thyroid gland increases in size, becomes dense, and there are difficulties with swallowing and breathing.
• Inflammatory process leading to tissue changes, in which acute and subacute thyroiditis is diagnosed. Acute is rare and occurs as a result of a streptococcal or staphylococcal infection in the mouth. The patient feels unwell, chills, headache and feels pain when swallowing. The thyroid gland itself increases in size, presses on the trachea, which makes swallowing difficult and shortness of breath appears. Subacute thyroiditis is seasonal and is most often diagnosed in spring and autumn after ARVI. It can also be provoked by chickenpox and mumps. The viral inflammatory process destroys the follicles of the gland tissue, which becomes painful and dense. The disease is accompanied by fever, sweating, weakness, nausea and pain in the neck, which radiate to the area of ​​the jaws, teeth, and ears.
• Bleeding into a cyst or nodule of the thyroid gland due to trauma, physical exertion, hypertension. In this case, the swelling of the neck is complemented by an increase in body temperature and a sharp pain.
• Inflammation around neoplastic cells of the thyroid gland, which leads to the development of hyperplasia, the formation of benign and malignant tumors against the background of the formation of nodular formations. There are no obvious symptoms until the size or number of nodules begins to increase, which leads to a violation of swallowing and swelling in the front of the neck.
• Erroneous production of antibodies produced by the immune system against the thyroid gland. This causes autoimmune thyroiditis of the thyroid gland, the signs of which are found incidentally during examination of the thyroid gland. This form is called “silent”, because it is painless and may be accompanied by an increase in the gland. The second type – induced, is a consequence of hepatitis C, blood diseases and taking interferon. But if the pathology is not detected in time, the asymptomatic period passes into an acute stage, at which swallowing becomes difficult, pain in the joints appears, the thyroid gland noticeably increases, working capacity and concentration of attention drop sharply.

Each disease is characterized by certain signs, but for all – there are common manifestations, in the presence of which it is necessary to consult a doctor.

The first symptoms of thyroid disease

Disruption of the hormonal balance, which is responsible for the thyroid gland, has characteristic features:

• Chronic fatigue syndrome, lethargy, mood swings, due to insufficient production of serotonin, the synthesis of which is influenced by thyroid hormones.
• Increased or decreased body temperature without objective reasons. If the gland produces less hormones than expected, a person experiences constant chills, and vice versa, he is hot if the hormonal background is above normal.
• Unstable menstrual cycle in women. Lack of hormones (hypothyroidism) is the cause of scanty, rare periods or their cessation.
• Sudden weight loss or unreasonable weight gain.
• Swallowing or respiratory disorders, which are accompanied by a sensation of a lump in the throat, difficulty in swallowing, the appearance of shortness of breath and hoarseness.
• Joint and muscle pain.
• High or low cholesterol, the level of which remains unchanged despite diets or taking special drugs.
• Changes in skin color and hair condition. The skin acquires a yellowish tint, so hypothyroidism is often confused with liver disease. Hair becomes brittle and dry, hair loss is observed at the outer edge of the eyebrow. An unusual rash may appear on the body, in the lower leg area.

The combination of symptoms is a good reason to seek qualified medical help. Especially for those who have a family history of thyroid disease or live in iodine-deficient regions.

Signs of a thyroid disease

Which doctor treats the thyroid gland

Treatment of thyroid diseases is carried out by an endocrinologist who diagnoses the pathology, chooses the methods of therapy and monitors the patient’s condition.

Visual inspection, palpation and ultrasonography are used as diagnostics, after which conservative or surgical treatment is recommended, depending on the degree of the disease.

There are six stages in total, which are characterized by external manifestations and symptoms.

• In the initial stages (zero, first and second), the gland is not visually visible, but can be palpated or seen when swallowed.
• Late (third, fourth and fifth) are characterized by a modification of the neck, in which the gland is clearly visible and becomes very large.

In any case, when the thyroid gland hurts, you can not self-medicate. Uncontrolled intake of drugs and non-compliance with medical recommendations lead to complications and negative consequences for the body.

Sources:

• “Hypothyroidism”, Russian Medical Journal, No. 5, 2013
• “Problems and achievements of national thyroidology”, Remedium, March, 2015
• “Functional disorders of the thyroid gland: Causes, Consequences and Possibilities of Effective Drug Therapy”, Journal of Pediatric Practice, September-October, 2015

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location, causes and signs of dysfunction?

June 27, 2019

April 15, 2023

3 minutes

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ProWellness

Contents

• The structure of the thyroid gland in men
• Why do men develop thyroid diseases?
• Men’s thyroid symptoms
• Men’s thyroid examination procedures
• What can a man do to prevent the disease from getting worse?

Disclaimer

Please note that all information posted on the site
Prowellness is provided for informational purposes only and is not a personal program, a direct recommendation for action, or medical advice. Do not use these materials for diagnosis, treatment, or any medical procedure. Consult your physician before using any technique or using any product. This site is not a specialized medical portal and does not replace the professional advice of a specialist. The Site Owner is not liable to any party who has suffered indirect or direct damage as a result of misuse of materials posted on this resource.

Thyroid gland in men: location, causes and signs of dysfunction?

The thyroid gland is responsible for the production of hormones necessary for normal life. Failure in its work leads to many diseases and complications.

Structure of the thyroid gland in men

The thyroid gland is located in close proximity to the trachea. It consists of two roughly equal lobes that separate the isthmus.

In addition to the production of hormones, the body is responsible for the functioning of the heart, regulates metabolic processes, and helps to carry out mental processes.

Why do men get thyroid problems?

The body may start to work intermittently for the following reasons:

• unbalanced diet;
• lack of vitamins, minerals, nutrients;
• regular stress, emotional stress, lack of proper rest;
• diseases of a hereditary, congenital or acquired nature;
• bad habits;
• bad ecology;
• work in hazardous production or enterprise;
• use of hormonal steroids;
• regular overload of the body.

Symptoms of thyroid disorders in men

Sometimes the pathology of the thyroid gland can be recognized even by a photo, as it increases in volume. Symptoms of abnormal thyroid function:

• regular tremor in the limbs;
• feeling of anxiety and anxiety for no apparent reason;
• decreased sexual activity;
• digestive disorders;
• drowsiness, lethargy, chronic fatigue;
• difficult breathing and swallowing;
• weight fluctuations;
• causeless pain in bones, muscles and joints;
• high blood pressure;
• mood swings;
• increased sweating;
• dryness of mucous membranes and skin;
• nervousness and aggressiveness.

Thyroid examination procedures for men

During the initial examination, the endocrinologist performs palpation of the organ to identify possible enlargements. In addition, the man will be asked to undergo the following important procedures:

• measurement of height and weight;
• determination of body temperature;
• examination of eyes, skin, hair condition;
• blood test for hormones;
• ultrasound;
• reflex test;
• blood pressure measurement;
• saliva analysis;
• urinalysis.

Next, the doctor makes a diagnosis and prescribes treatment depending on the type of thyroid disease. The patient can only clearly follow his instructions and continue to comply with preventive measures.

What should a man do to prevent the disease from getting worse?

To exclude thyroid diseases or their further development, it is enough to do the following:

1. Quit smoking, drinking alcohol and drugs.
2. Be physically active, not sedentary.
3. Control your weight.
4. Eat properly and balanced, do not skip meals, take vitamins.
5. Avoid emotional overstrain, stress, conflicts, do not worry about trifles, create a favorable psychological environment around yourself.
6. Observe sleep and rest.

Attention! If a man’s work is associated with serious physical, mental or emotional stress, he needs to additionally consume iodine, but this can only be done after consulting an endocrinologist.

The symptoms of thyroid disease in men are similar to those in women. It is not recommended to start the problem, as in the future it is fraught with serious consequences and complications.

Disclaimer

Please note that all information posted on the site
Prowellness is provided for informational purposes only and is not a personal program, a direct recommendation for action, or medical advice.