Hypothyroidism in Men..it could happen to you

Hypothyroidism in men does occur and unfortunately quite frequently. For many men it may be hard to distinguish between the signs and symptoms. Although this disease occurs most often in women you should be on the lookout for the following symptoms.

Signs and Symptoms of Hypothyroidism in Men

In all likelihood, you will not experience all of these symptoms. If you have more than 2-3, it could signal Hypothyroidism.

Men with severe Hypothyroidism may form under-eye bags and
puffiness of the face.  Many people describe this as a moon face which is very full and round. Migraine headaches can also result due to
swollen tissues.

Also, males experience heightened risk of heart disease, depression
and infection. Hypothyroidism related heart disease and connected
complications are serious side-effects. Complications of heart disease include decreased blood circulation to
the heart muscle and other vital organs.

Bad circulation can cause dry
or cracked skin and coldness of the hands and feet. This happens because
the skin is deprived of 60-80% of its usual blood supply; therefore,
the body loses most of its natural ability to warm the extremities. In
addition, the blood isn’t delivering the correct amount of nutrients
necessary to maintain skin softness and suppleness.

Although we rarely associate the thyroid gland with the immune system,
it plays a critical role in sustaining the body’s defense mechanisms.
Mainly, this gland produces hormones that help control metabolic
rate. Hypothyroidism in men increases the risk of bacterial and viral
infections, particularly in the respiratory and urinary tract.

Hypothyroidism in men is a
leading cause of depressed libido. Before resorting to popular male
enhancement drugs, every male with this symptom would be wise to seek
medical testing for thyroid dysfunction first.

Hashimoto’s Disease is one of the most common causes
of Hypothyroidism. This autoimmune disease is characterized by the
production of antibodies, which destroy thyroid tissues.

Causes for Men

• Thyroid dysfunction post-thyroidectomy or radiation therapy with iodine
• Hashimoto’s Disease
• Pituitary gland fails to produce TSH hormone
• Hypothalamus fails to produce TRH hormone
• Iodine deficiency
• Side-effects of  medicines
• Family history
• Autoimmune diseases such as diabetes or rheumatoid arthritis

Treatment

Levothyroxine, a synthetic prescription  is usually the first line
treatment prescribed by most doctors. There are however, other medications available for men.

It’s important to note that most doctors will automatically try to put you on Levothyroxine. This may work  for you however many patients have found that being on a desiccated thyroid medication such as Nature-Throid or Armour  works better.

A desiccated medication is typically made from porcine (pig) thyroid and is considered to be a full replacement as it contains T3 and T4.

Naturally desiccated medication is not always viewed as favorable by many endocrinologists who mistakenly believe it contains inconsistent amounts of hormone and therefore is not reliable. This erroneous thought process is due to the consistent push by Levothyroxine company sales reps to give desiccated medication a bad rap.

If you are currently taking levothyroxine for Hypothyroidism and still have many symptoms and all together still feel unwell, talk to your doctor about exploring a change in your medication. Hypothyroidism in men is treatable so make sure to be aware of your test results and what medication options are available. 

I have learned through my own trial and error that I know my body better than any doctor possibly could. Although I value the training and expertise of medical doctors I also understand that they do not know everything. Being an informed patient and your own advocate is truly the most important gift you can ever give yourself.

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