Friday, August 2, 2013

Hypothyroidism in Men - Causes, Symptoms and Treatments


Hypothyroidism is the condition in which the thyroid gland produces insufficient amount of thyroid hormones required by the body for metabolism, such as converting fats and carbohydrates into energy. Thyroid hormones are also important for regulating the body temperature and in the production of protein.

There are two main types of thyroid hormones, these are thyroxine or T4 and triiodothyronine or T3. If you are suffering from deficiency of these two hormones, your rate of metabolism will slow down and you are likely to experience a number of symptoms. Generally, hypothyroidism is more common among women especially between the ages of 35 and 60 years, though men too are prone to this medical condition.

Causes of Hypothyroidism in Men

Several factors are responsible for the occurrence of hypothyroidism in men, but the main cause is Hasimoto's disease. This is an auto immune disease characterised by the production of antibodies which destroy the tissues of the thyroid gland, and thereby reduce the capability of the glands to produce thyroid hormones. Other known causes of hypothyroidism include medications or surgery, inflammation of the pituitary gland, iodine deficiency, radiation therapy and hereditary or genetics.

Symptoms of Hypothyroidism in Men

Men who are suffering from hypothyroidism are likely to experience a number of symptoms, the more common ones are as follows; weight gain, muscle fatigue and weakness, dry skin, hair loss, constipation, hoarse voice, insensitivity to cold, depression and low sex drive.

Treatments of Hypothyroidism in Men

If you are diagnosed with hypothyroidism, you need to consult your doctor for proper check up in order to know the main cause and the appropriate treatment. Hypothyroidism is normally treated with synthetic thyroid hormone, levothyroxine. This medication helps top supplement the thyroid hormone in the body to normal level.

Apart from medications, there are other natural cures to control the symptoms of hypothyroidism. Foods that are rich in protein, fibers, iodine, selenium, zinc and vitamins such as vitamin A, B complex and C are very good for controlling hypothyroidism. The trace elements in those foods are essential for stimulating the thyroid gland to produce thyroid hormones. In addition, certain herbs are also important for treating hypothyroidism in men. Some of these herbs include bladder wrack, kelp, cayenne, Iceland moss, Irish moss and dandelion root. However, you should consult your doctor before you start to use any of those herbs.

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