The thyroid is the body’s largest endocrine gland organ, functioning to secrete thyroxine and maintain the most basic metabolism. Although the thyroid may seem insignificant, it can affect the whole body; once thyroid dysfunction occurs, it can affect multiple systems and even threaten life. Particularly for men, paying attention to thyroid health is essential.
What problems can occur in men when the thyroid is out of control?
Youthful men are prone to hyperthyroidism, where there is excessive secretion of thyroid hormones impacting the muscle and gastrointestinal systems. Common symptoms include increased bowel movements, weakness in limbs, increased appetite, weight loss, and in severe cases, respiratory muscle impairment leading to breathing difficulties. When youthful men experience hypothyroidism, the metabolic rate slows down, leading to symptoms like limb swelling, proteinuria, with no indentation when pressing the legs and feet.
Can hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism in men be cured?
1. Hyperthyroidism
Thyrotoxicosis due to thyroiditis may normalize without specific treatment; iodine-induced hyperthyroidism can also be cured. Most hyperthyroidism cases are due to toxic diffuse goiter, requiring proper treatment lasting approximately 1.5-2 years with a cure rate of 50%-60%, albeit with a high recurrence rate. Stability of hyperthyroidism depends on iodine intake; patients should follow a diet rich in protein, high in calories, and multivitamins, with grains as staple foods, consuming protein-rich meats and dairy, fresh fruits and vegetables for vitamin supplementation. Avoid iodized salt, stimulating foods, high iodine foods, especially kelp, shrimp, seaweed, and nori.
2. Hypothyroidism
Hypothyroidism due to subacute thyroiditis often recovers without medication or with short-term medication. Most hypothyroidism cases cannot be completely cured, but adjusting dietary habits helps stabilize or control the condition. Daily nutrition should include a diet high in protein, rich in vitamins, beans, fish, eggs, lean meat, while reducing or avoiding high-cholesterol foods like animal fat, organ meat, margarine. Most hypothyroidism patients have anemia, so iron-rich foods like animal blood and lean meat should be consumed, while salt intake should be strictly controlled to prevent lower limb edema worsening.
Qujing Jiuzhou Hospital Reminder: Men should take good care of their thyroid and avoid excessive fatigue. Overwork and mental fatigue can disrupt the neuroendocrine system, leading to thyroid issues. Minimize unnecessary radiation exposure and protect the thyroid during X-rays. Men should undergo thyroid ultrasound and function tests at least annually; learn self-examination techniques to check for symmetry, and any lumps or nodules on the sides of the neck.
