Cosmetic Dentistry Reviews

Archive for the ‘Hypothyroidism’ Category

Hypothyroidism is the medical term used to describe a condition where an individual has an underactive thyroid gland. While this condition exists primarily in women, men are not immune from having a thyroid gland that fails to produce enough thyroid hormones. These hormones are used by the body to burn fats and carbohydrates, in other words, the thyroid hormones are very important for regulating the metabolic rate.

The hypothyroidism symptoms in men as the same as many women experience: unexplained weight gain, dry and pale skin, a sluggish feeling, muscle and joint pain, a low heart rate, and a low sex drive. If a diagnosis of hypothyroidism is made in men, the condition is usually treated with an oral synthetic thyroid hormone. This medication is taken daily to replace the hormones the underactive thyroid is no longer producing. Usually, this medication has to be continued throughout the man’s lifetime.

If left untreated, hypothyroidism in men can lead to worsening symptoms such as the thickening of the skin, a puffy face, and slurred speech. In severe cases, an underactive thyroid may cause high cholesterol, infertility, goiter, and heart problems. Men with underactive thyroid glands also tend toward obesity if the metabolic rate is not restored to normal. In very severe, but also very rare cases, unconsciousness will occur if the metabolic rate drops too low.