The thyroid is a butterfly-shaped gland located in the front of the neck. A low thyroid, which is called underactive thyroid or hypothyroidism, is a condition in which the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormone. The symptoms of hypothyroidism vary widely in men, depending on the severity and duration of their deficiency, reports EndocrineWeb.com. Some men have one main symptom, while others may have many signs. Still others may suffer from nonspecific symptoms, such as fatigue or muscle aches.
Erectile Dysfunction
Erectile dysfunction is a symptom of hyothyroidism, reports the Hormone Foundation. It is also a sign of overactive thyroid, and thus seeing an endocrinologist is required for adequate diagnosis. Men may also experience decreased libido, reports EndocrineWeb.com.
Weight Gain
Unexplained weight gain or increased difficulty in losing weight is another sign of hypothyroidism, reports EndocrineWeb.com. Unfortunately, many men may think they are gaining weight simply because of aging or less physical activity. The weight gain rarely exceeds 20 to 30 lb., reports MayoClinic.com, and most of it is fluid.
Constipation
Constipation is a sign of an underactive thyroid in men, reports MayoClinic.com. Diarrhea, on the other hand, is a sign of an overactive thyroid. Unfortunately, gastrointestinal effects are caused by many conditions, and most people do not connect them to a thyroid disorder.
Fatigue
Feeling tired or listless is a symptom of hypothyroidism, reports the Hormone Foundation. Men may also notice that their heart rate and pulse seem slower. These subtle signs, which are easily attributed to lifestyle effects such as overwork or stress, are a result of slowing of the body functions. These symptoms may be mistakenly attributed to depression, reports the Merck Manual.
Confusion or Forgetfulness
Another sign related to slowing of body functions in hypothyroidism is confusion or faulty memory, reports the Merck Manual. This symptom is common in older people and may be mistaken for dementia, which is common in the elderly, or Alzheimer's disease.
If hypothyroidism is untreated, confusion may progress to stupor or life-threatening coma, which may be accompanied by seizures and decreased blood flow and breathing. This extreme complication is triggered by surgery, medication, injury or exposure to cold.
Aches and Pains
Men with hypothyroidism may have aching muscles, which commonly occurs in the hips and shoulders, reports MayoClinic.com. They may feel their muscles are weak, particular their legs. Also, the body's joints may be stiff. Swelling can appear in the smaller joints of the feet or hands and in the knees.
