Hair loss? balding, low testosterone, and fatigue? It’s not just age or stress – UAE doctors reveal the hidden cause

Abu Dhabi: Thyroid disorders are often overlooked in men and remain undiagnosed until symptoms become severe, resulting in issues such as hair thinning, baldness, sexual dysfunction, and even infertility, according to leading medical experts.

Marking World Thyroid Day, which falls on May 25, doctors noted that thyroid disorders are often misperceived as predominantly a women’s health issue, leading to a significant gap in awareness and diagnosis among men. Yet the thyroid gland – responsible for regulating metabolism, energy levels, and hormonal balance – can have a profound systemic impact when it malfunctions, regardless of gender.

Whether through hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid, when the gland doesn’t produce enough hormones) or hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid, when the gland produces too much hormone), these conditions can disrupt multiple body systems, making early detection and treatment in men all the more crucial.

Dr Abey Abraham, Specialist Internal Medicine, Aster Medical Center, King Faisal Road, Sharjah, noted that disruption in function of thyroid gland whether through hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism – affects the body’s ability to grow and maintain healthy hair.

“With hypothyroidism, for example, the slow metabolism reduces blood circulation to the scalp, leading to thinning and shedding. Hyperthyroidism, on the other hand, accelerates the hair growth cycle, causing hair to fall out before it matures.”

“Hypothyroidism can significantly lower testosterone levels in men, impairing reproductive function, as testosterone plays a vital role in sperm production and overall metabolic regulation,” said Dr Geethu Antony, Specialist Endocrinology, Medeor Hospital, Abu Dhabi.

“Poor dietary habits linked to sedentary lifestyles can further compromise thyroid health, exacerbating hormonal imbalances and metabolic issues,” she said.

Dr Abraham pointed out that one of the most concerning issues is that men frequently miss the early signs of thyroid dysfunction.
“Unlike women, who are more routinely screened and tend to seek help for symptoms like fatigue or weight fluctuations, men often attribute these issues to stress, aging, or lifestyle. Symptoms like thinning hair, dry skin, or decreased libido are easily dismissed until the condition has advanced.”

Dr Abraham highlighted a “subtle yet noticeable” trend: a gradual increase in thyroid cancer diagnoses among men.
“While thyroid cancer is still more common in women, men often present with more aggressive forms and at later stages. This delay in diagnosis is often due to lower awareness and less frequent routine screening, particularly for nodules or neck swelling.”

Meanwhile, Dr Antony said: “The increased detection of thyroid cancer in young men is largely attributed to advances in imaging technology and greater clinical awareness. However, contributing factors may also include environmental exposures and lifestyle changes that needs further investigation.”

Dr Abraham stressed that diet plays a pivotal role in thyroid health.
“Many men follow high-protein or restrictive diets that may be deficient in key micronutrients like iodine, selenium, and zinc – essential elements for healthy thyroid function. Processed foods and excessive soy intake can interfere with thyroid hormone production as well. I always advise patients to consume a balanced diet rich in whole foods, vegetables, lean meat proteins, and nuts to support thyroid health.”

Doctors urged men to be more vigilant about thyroid symptoms.
“Routine blood work, awareness of body changes, and a nutrient-dense diet are small but crucial steps toward protecting not just thyroid health but overall well-being. Early detection can prevent complications like hair loss and help manage or even reverse the impact of thyroid disorders,” Dr Abraham said.