Overlooked Symptoms of Thyroid Problems in Males

When you think about thyroid issues, you might think it’s something that mostly affects women. But men can have thyroid problems too. The thyroid is a small gland in your neck that helps control things like energy, metabolism, and even mood. When your thyroid is out of balance, it can cause a lot of symptoms, but some of them are easy to overlook. Let’s talk about three common thyroid symptoms in men that often get missed and why working with a functional medicine practitioner is the best way to get help.

1. Low Energy and Fatigue

Feeling tired all the time is one of the most common symptoms of a thyroid problem, but many men brush it off as just being stressed or overworked. If your thyroid isn’t making enough hormones, it can slow down your body and make you feel exhausted, even if you’ve had plenty of rest. This is called hypothyroidism, and it can make it hard to get through the day, no matter how much sleep you get. If you’re constantly feeling drained, it might not be just stress—it could be your thyroid.

2. Weight Gain or Trouble Losing Weight

Another sign of thyroid problems in men is weight gain or the inability to lose it, even when you’re eating healthy and staying active. When your thyroid isn’t working properly, it can slow down your metabolism, which makes it harder for your body to burn calories. This can lead to weight gain, especially around your stomach. If you’ve noticed that your weight is creeping up, or if no amount of exercise seems to help, it could be a sign of thyroid issues.

3. Mood Changes or Feeling Depressed

Men don’t often talk about their feelings, but thyroid problems can affect your mood in a big way. When your thyroid is out of balance, it can cause anxiety, mood swings, or even depression. Hypothyroidism can make you feel down or hopeless, while hyperthyroidism (an overactive thyroid) can make you feel anxious or jittery. If your mood has been off lately, and you can’t figure out why, your thyroid might be playing a role.

Why Work with a Functional Medicine Practitioner?

If you’re experiencing these symptoms, it’s important to work with a functional medicine practitioner. They look at the big picture, not just your thyroid. They’ll take the time to understand your entire health story, check your thyroid levels, and find the root cause of your symptoms. With a personalized plan that includes nutrition, lifestyle changes, and natural support, a functional medicine practitioner helps your thyroid—and the rest of your body—get back in balance.