Hyperthyroidism is a condition in which your body produces more thyroid than required.  It basically occurs due to the presence of an overly active thyroid gland. It can affect your heart health, muscles and even semen production if not taken seriously.

According to the best thyroid specialist in Lahore, a condition called Grave’s disease is the most common cause of hyperthyroidism in men. Although women are equally likely to get this auto-immune disease. Having Graves disease, your immune system attacks a healthy thyroid gland making it produce thyroid hormone that is not needed.

The main causes of hyperthyroidism likely seen in men are;

• Too much iodine intake through diet or medication.
• Any condition that causes inflammation of thyroid gland i.e, thyroiditis.
• Nodules seen around the thyroid gland, which basically are a cluster of abnormal cells.
• Overmedication of thyroid hormone also results in hyperthyroidism.

Male-Specific Symptoms of Hyperthyroidism

Though men and women share the same symptoms, there are a  few symptoms that can only be seen in men. Erectile Dysfunction (ED) is one of the main issues that occurs as a result of an overly active thyroid.

Low sperm count and premature balding are the major symptoms leading towards hyperthyroidism that are often neglected. Osteoporosis (bone thinning disease) is also one of the surprising symptoms in men, as it usually occurs and is observed in women. In a lot of males gynecomastia(enlargement of breast) is a condition that is seen as a result of hypothyroidism.

Effects on Male Sex Organs

Thyroid can disturb the function of most cells in your body. Too much or too little thyroid hormone in the body can affect the function of Leydig cells. These cells help in the production and secretion of testosterone.

Hyperthyroidism also affects sperm production and motility. It can even affect the shape and size of the sperm.

If you’re unable to become a father, it is suggested to get your thyroid tests done. Simple tests can  help you locate the density of your sperm and the count as well.

Diagnosis of Hyperthyroidism in Men

Just because it is women who are seen more with this condition, men dont need to get their tests done. You should get screened for hyperthyroidism if it’s in your family history or you are above 60. You may be at a higher risk if you have type 2 diabetes. In this case you should get your thyroid screening test done.

The diagnosis starts from a review of your medical history and the symptoms. Your doctor ponts out if you have any change in your eyes or skin. They may also observe your reflexes. If they are overly active, then you must be suffering from hyperthyroidism.

In addition to a physical exam, there are other tests to be taken while screening of thyroid. A test for thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) and thyroxine must be conducted, the main hormone released by thyroid. An imaging test called a ‘thyroid scan’ can also be helpful.

Treatment

Hyperthyroidism is much more difficult to treat than hypothyroidism. Synthetic thyroid hormones are used usually for the treatment. Other treatments for overactive thyroid include;

• Antithyroid Medication: these control the thyroid from producing too much hormone.
• Surgery: It is done to remove the part of the thyroid that is resulting in extra production of the hormone.
• Radioiodine Therapy: This therapy involves taking radioactive iodine 131 by mouth. This iodine then kills the cells that produce thyroid hormone slowly. It aims to bring hormone production to a normal and healthy range. This is a widely used therapy, which includes more than one session.

In addition to resolving symptoms related to weight, energy, heart rate and other complications, treatment of thyroid also treats sexual dysfunction diseases.

Diet for Thyroid

In order to make your thyroid work perfectly, you need to avoid certain foods;

• Unhealthy fats
• Table salt
• Sweets
• Alcohol
• Caffeine
• Foods that spike your blood sugar level
• Goitrogens (foods that slow down your thyroid gland) including peanuts, peaches, broccoli, brussel sprouts and strawberries.

Final Thought

If you have been experiencing symptoms of hyperthyroidism, don’t wait to get yourself tested. Your condition might have worsened without you even realizing it. And If you’ve been diagnosed and still feel no symptoms, do visit your doctor.