Low Testosterone
What is testosterone?
Testosterone is a hormone predominantly produced in the testicles and is crucial for maintaining various bodily functions in men. Testosterone is a crucial hormone for men, playing a vital role in various aspects of their health and well-being.
What role does testosterone play?
Testosterone plays a pivotal role in the development and maintenance of male physical characteristics. It is primarily produced in the testes and is responsible for the development of secondary sexual characteristics such as increased muscle and bone mass, the deepening of the voice during puberty, and the growth of body hair. Beyond its influence on physical attributes, testosterone is also crucial in regulating libido, mood, and cognitive functions. In both men and women, testosterone contributes to overall energy levels and the maintenance of bone density and muscle strength.
What is low testosterone?
Testosterone levels naturally decline with age, leading to potential effects such as decreased muscle mass, fatigue, and changes in mood. Low testosterone is a condition where the body's production of testosterone is below normal levels. Other names for this condition include testosterone deficiency syndrome, hypogonadism, male hypogonadism
When do testosterone levels decrease?
Testosterone levels typically begin to decrease gradually in men around the age of 30, with an average decline of about 1% per year. This decrease can lead to various physiological and psychological changes, such as reduced muscle mass, diminished libido, fatigue, and mood fluctuations. In some cases, lower testosterone levels may be associated with medical conditions such as obesity, diabetes, and hormonal disorders. It's important for individuals experiencing symptoms related to low testosterone to consult with a healthcare professional for appropriate evaluation and potential treatment options.
Symptoms of low testosterone
Reduced sex drive:
Low testosterone levels can contribute to a reduced sex drive in men. Testosterone is a key hormone that plays a crucial role in regulating libido. When testosterone levels drop below normal, it can lead to a decrease in sexual desire.
Depressed mood:
When testosterone levels are low, individuals may experience feelings of sadness, irritability, or a lack of motivation. These mood changes can significantly affect a person's quality of life and overall mental well-being.
Erectile dysfunction:
Low testosterone can contribute to erectile dysfunction by affecting the production of nitric oxide, a key player in achieving and maintaining an erection. Testosterone helps stimulate the release of nitric molecules.
Increased body fat:
Testosterone plays a crucial role in regulating metabolism and muscle mass. When testosterone levels are low, the body's ability to burn calories efficiently and maintain muscle diminishes. As a result, unburned calories are more likely to be stored as fat, especially in the abdominal area.
Loss of body hair:
Low testosterone levels can lead to a loss of body hair since this hormone plays a crucial role in the development and maintenance of hair follicles. Testosterone is known to stimulate hair growth, and when levels are low, the follicles may weaken, leading to hair thinning and shedding.
Decrease in muscle strength and mass:
When testosterone levels are low, muscle protein synthesis decreases, making it difficult for the body to build and maintain muscle mass. Additionally, low testosterone can lead to an increase in fat mass, further exacerbating the loss of muscle strength and size.
How is low testosterone diagnosed?
To diagnose low testosterone levels, healthcare providers typically perform a number of tests:
Physical exam
During a physical exam to diagnose low testosterone levels, a healthcare provider will typically begin by conducting a thorough medical history review with the patient. The provider will then perform a comprehensive physical examination, paying close attention to specific signs such as decreased body hair, breast enlargement, or smaller testicle size.
Blood test
Blood tests are then conducted to measure the level of testosterone in the blood. These tests are usually done in the morning when testosterone levels are highest. If the results show abnormally low testosterone levels and the patient presents symptoms such as fatigue, low libido, or erectile dysfunction, a diagnosis of low testosterone (hypogonadism) may be made.
It is essential for patients to communicate openly with their healthcare provider to ensure an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan for low testosterone.
Treatment for low testosterone
Testosterone replacement therapy is offered at MIMIT Health to treat low testosterone levels.
This therapy involves the administration of synthetic testosterone to help balance the hormonal levels in the body. By increasing testosterone levels, this treatment can help improve symptoms such as low libido, fatigue, muscle loss, and mood swings that are associated with low testosterone. It can be administered through injections, gels, patches, or implantable pellets.