Thyroid Awareness Month: Why Men Need to Take Thyroid Health Seriously - Dr Archana Juneja

When men feel persistently tired, gain weight despite regular exercise, or experience unexplained mood changes, the usual suspects are stress, long workdays, or simply getting older. What often goes unnoticed is the role of the thyroid a small, butterfly-shaped gland in the neck that quietly regulates many vital functions in the body.

This Thyroid Awareness Month, it’s important to shine a light on thyroid disorders in men a condition that is frequently overlooked, misunderstood, and diagnosed late.

The thyroid may be small, but it influences almost every system in the body from metabolism and heart rate to energy levels, mood, and sexual health. When the thyroid doesn’t function properly, the body’s balance is thrown off, often in ways that feel subtle at first.

Thyroid disorders are commonly associated with women, but men are not exempt. In fact, when men develop thyroid problems, they are often diagnosed late because symptoms are ignored or misread.

Why Thyroid Problems in Men Often Go Undetected

Many men tend to push through fatigue, ignore emotional changes, and postpone doctor visits. Weight gain, low energy, or reduced libido are frequently attributed to work pressure, lack of sleep, or lifestyle habits. As a result, thyroid dysfunction often remains undetected until symptoms become more pronounced or complications arise.

Symptoms Men Should Not Ignore

An underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism) may show up as:

• Constant tiredness and lack of motivation

• Gradual weight gain despite no major lifestyle changes

• Low mood or mild depression

• Decreased libido or fertility concerns

• Hair thinning and dry skin

• Sensitivity to cold

An overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism) can cause:

• Sudden weight loss

• Palpitations or a racing heart

• Excessive sweating

• Anxiety or irritability

• Sleep problems

• Shaky hands

What Triggers Thyroid Disorders in Men?

Thyroid disorders in men can develop for several reasons, including autoimmune conditions, a family history of thyroid disease, iodine imbalance, certain medications, or past exposure to radiation. Lifestyle factors also matter. Chronic stress can disrupt the body’s hormonal balance, while smoking is a significant and often overlooked risk factor.

Although thyroid conditions are less common in men than in women, the pattern of disease is different. Men are more likely to develop hyperthyroidism than hypothyroidism, and they also have a higher risk of thyroid eye disease, a condition that can cause eye irritation, bulging, or vision problems. Smoking substantially increases this risk and can worsen both thyroid dysfunction and eye-related complications.

The Good News: Thyroid Disorders Are Treatable

Diagnosing a thyroid condition is simple and requires only a blood test. Once detected, treatment is usually straightforward and highly effective. Most men respond well to medication and can return to their normal routines with proper medical supervision.

Why Awareness and Early Testing Matter

Left untreated, thyroid disorders can affect heart health, metabolism, mental well-being, and overall quality of life. Early diagnosis not only prevents complications but also improves energy, focus, and emotional balance.

So, Thyroid health isn’t a women-only issue. Men need to listen to their bodies and seek timely medical advice. This Thyroid Awareness Month, let’s encourage open conversations, early testing, and informed choices because good health starts with awareness.

Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are of the author and not of Health Dialogues. The Editorial/Content team of Health Dialogues has not contributed to the writing/editing/packaging of this article.