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Symptoms of Thyroid Problems in Males

The symptoms of thyroid disease are similar in both males and females. However, the male reproductive system, male sexual function, and other systems are affected differently by this hormonal disorder. Some symptoms, such as erectile dysfunction and male breast enlargement, are not common in males under 40 and are easily recognised as abnormal. However, older males may experience these symptoms as a result of ageing. This article describes the symptoms of thyroid disease in males and how it affects male hormones.

What are the Symptoms of Thyroid Disease in Males?

Symptoms of thyroid problems in males include:

• Thinning hair

• Hair loss

• Reduced libido (sex drive)

• Low sperm count

• Low testosterone levels

• Erectile dysfunction

• Delayed ejaculation

• Premature ejaculation

• Testicular atrophy or shrinking testicles

• Infertility

• Gynecomastia (male breast enlargement)

• Loss of muscle mass and muscle strength

• Hip and spine fractures are most commonly observed in older males who suffer from hyperthyroidism

How Does Thyroid Disease Affect Male Hormones?

Thyroid disease can lead to an abnormal increase or decrease in thyroid hormones. These hormones can impact other hormones in the body, such as testosterone and oestrogen. This occurs because thyroid hormones are responsible for guiding the production of a protein called sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG). The liver synthesises SHBG and regulates the amount of sex hormones actively functioning in the bloodstream.

Both hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism can have an impact on testosterone levels in different ways. In case of hyperthyroidism, the levels of SHBG increase leading to a decrease in free testosterone levels. This can result in hypogonadism, which is a condition of low testosterone. On the other hand, hypothyroidism can cause a decrease in SHBG levels, which means that more testosterone remains unbound and available for aromatisation. This can result in a rise in oestrogen levels due to increased conversion of testosterone to oestrogen. Both of these effects, having too little testosterone or too much oestrogen, can have similar effects on the male body.

Conclusion

Thyroid disease is more common in females than males, but both genders can experience similar symptoms. However, symptoms of thyroid problems in males, such as erectile dysfunction and hypogonadism (low testosterone), are due to the impact of thyroid disease on sex hormones. The treatment of thyroid disease is the same for both males and females. However, symptoms of thyroid problems in males may sometimes go unnoticed as they can also occur in older males without thyroid disease.

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Source: buzzrx.com, verywellhealth.com

Disclaimer: This blog provides general information and discussions about health and related subjects. The information and other content provided in this blog, website or any linked materials are not intended and should not be considered or used as a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Kindly contact your doctor before starting a new medicine or health regime.

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Published on January 17, 2024