Signs of Hypothyroidism

One of the most overlooked conditions in both men and women is hypothyroidism. Although in men the disorder is not quite as common as in women, they still experience similar troubling symptoms that often go undiagnosed. The reason for this is that the signs of hypothyroidism are not only numerous, but also tend to be incorrectly diagnosed as something else.

It’s important to understand the expansive role of the thyroid gland which is largely why it is responsible for causing so many symptoms of hypothyroidism. It determines how much energy your cells produce. The less energy they produce, the unhealthier they become. And because it affects all cells, these signs and symptoms can develop within any part of the body.

One of the first signs of hypothyroidism is often a feeling of being tired all the time. Fatigue that interferes with daily life is often really an early warning sign and oftentimes adopting the right hypothyroidism diet early enough can correct the problem and save you a lot of time and energy.

Another sign of hypothyroidism is weight gain. When the body slows its metabolism, the natural result is that you start putting on extra pounds. Unlike weight that comes from overeating, weight gain due to hypothyroidism is difficult, if not impossible to shed. Oftentimes, much of the weight gain can also be associated with water retention or edema. While weight gain and fatigue are two of the most frustrating signs of hypothyroidism, there are many other symptoms as well.

Unfortunately, most men believe they are unlikely candidates for hypothyroidism which causes them to overlook the real problem, especially when weight gain is not a problem. But hypothyroidism is growing amongst men as well making the right hypothyroidism treatment protocol just as important for men as it women.

Let’s take a look at some of the signs of hypothyroidism in men. You will note that while some are similar to the signs in women, some are exclusive to men.

Signs of Hypothyroidism in Men

Fatigue

One of the most prevalent signs of hypothyroidism in men is fatigue and/or a general feeling of overall weakness. Your body never seems to have enough rest no matter how many hours of sleep you get at night. Some men define the condition as “sluggishness,” or say they feel like they are moving in slow motion.

Unfortunately, most men ignore this, and many of the symptoms of low thyroid function, and chalk it up to the fact they are getting older, or that they had a bad day at the office. However, a man who experiences chronic fatigue, especially if no other physical problems are present, are more likely suffering from hypothyroidism.

Weight Gain

Men, as well as women, tend to experience weight gain when they develop hypothyroidism. Men have a tendency to stop exercising when they are grossly fatigued, which over time develops into weight gain. For men, gaining weight is actually one of the later signs of hypothyroidism. Weight gain in spite of decreased appetite for food is a definite symptom.

Muscle Aches

Men who work at a job where physical labor is involved throughout the week are apt to ignore the signs of hypothyroidism. Most will chalk up even the most uncomfortable muscle pain to the fact that they work hard. However, men with extreme pain, aches and/or cramps in their muscles, especially if they are experiencing any other symptoms, should take into consideration the fact that they may suffer from hypothyroidism.

Sexual Dysfunction

Most men suffering from hypothyroidism will experience some type of sexual dysfunction. Decreased desire, erectile dysfunction, inability to ejaculate or premature ejaculation, are all signs of hypothyroidism in men. This can cause severe concern which in turn can lead to depression if the disorder is not diagnosed and treated. Fortunately most all cases of sexual dysfunction will be reversed once thyroid levels are brought back to normal.

Depression

Depression is also one of the strong signs of hypothyroidism in men who are otherwise healthy. As the thyroid hormone levels decrease, the body becomes fatigued and the inability to do normal amounts of work or enjoy physical recreation can make a man feel self-defeated. Usually when depression sets in, it begins as sense of feeling blue. Left untreated, however, hypothyroidism can lead to severe depression in men.

Loss of Hair

For men, hair loss caused by hypothyroidism is usually noticed first by a thinning of eyebrows. As the disorder continues, scalp hair can begin falling out as well. Sudden hair loss, such as losing hair in clumps, or large amounts of hair left behind in the shower or sink, is often one of the more severe signs of hypothyroidism.

What is the solution?

It’s important to remember that the thyroid gland produces the hormones necessary for cell growth, metabolism and cell repair as well as sexual function. Many men will fail to get the proper treatment because they don’t want to discuss some of these concerns with their physician. However, once diagnosed, with the proper treatment, the signs of hypothyroidism in men will be alleviated.