- Hyperthyroidism is an autoimmune disorder in which the thyroid gland produces too much hormone. This condition has symptoms such as unexplained weight loss, irregular heartbeat and hand tremors. Men may experience loose bowels and frequent bowel movements. Goiter is an additional condition that can develop due to hyperthyroidism. This condition causes the thyroid to enlarge and often appears as swelling in the right or left of center in the front of the neck. Erectile dysfunction is also common in men with hyperthyroidism.
- Graves' disease and hyperthyroidism are often mentioned together. In Graves' disease the immune system is stimulating the thyroid. Although seen more often in women, men can display symptoms of Graves' disease such as bulging, swollen or itchy eyes. Men may notice their perspiration increases and they are less able to tolerate heat. Breathing can be affected and become more difficult and men may notice that their upper arms and thighs feel weak.
- As indicated by the prefix "hypo" meaning "below normal," this is a condition in which the thyroid does not excrete enough of its hormone. Symptoms of hypothyroidism include erectile dysfunction as well as constipation and sensations of frequently feeling cold, listless and tired. Weight gain is often a problem even when eating habits haven't changed. Since thyroid hormones affect the smooth vascular muscles of the heart, reductions affect the ability of these muscles to properly relax and blood pressure is negatively affected.
- The immune system is again the cause of this disease. Antibodies reduce the amount of thyroid hormone being produced. This disease is also known as chronic lymphocytic thyroiditis. Hashimoto's disease is hereditary. Symptoms are inability to tolerate cold, goiter or enlargement of the thyroid gland, and problems swallowing. Men may notice their hair is turning gray at an early age. They may have fertility problems. Concentration is affected and it's harder to focus on simple tasks.
- Small tumors, called thyroid nodules, can develop on the thyroid gland and eventually cause thyroid cancer. Nodules are common and the majority are noncancerous. However, some can be dangerous and not easy to detect; thyroid cancer rarely produces any symptoms. Experienced doctors will notice them during routine examination as nodules which are malignant feel firmer to the touch.
