Low Testosterone: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment
Testosterone is a vital hormone that plays a significant role in the development and maintenance of male characteristics. However, low testosterone can lead to various physical and emotional symptoms that can affect a man’s day to day life especially his sex life. Luckily, there are medical treatments for treating low testosterone that can improve your quality of life.
What Is Testosterone?
Testosterone is a hormone that plays a crucial role in the development and maintenance of male reproductive tissues and other male characteristics. Testosterone is produced primarily in the testicles in males and in smaller amounts in the ovaries of females and the adrenal glands of both genders.
Testosterone is particularly important for males because it is responsible for the development of reproductive organs during fetal development, including preventing undescended testicles, and puberty, promotes the growth of facial and body hair, deepening of the voice, and increased muscle mass and bone density. Furthermore, testosterone is essential for sperm production and supports male sexual function and libido.
Unfortunately, as men age, testosterone levels gradually decline. Low testosterone levels can lead to changes in a man’s health and well-being. However, age is not the only cause of low testosterone.
Causes Of Low Testosterone
Age is the most common cause of low testosterone levels. A natural process, known as andropause, causes testosterone levels to drop as men age. This process typically starts around the age of 30 and progresses over time.
Additionally, some medications such as opioids and steroids can suppress testosterone production. Alcohol use can also be a contributing factor to low testosterone because it can suppress testosterone production by disrupting hormone production, increase estrogen levels, cause liver damage, disrupt your sleep and increase body fat all of which can lead to low testosterone levels. Obesity has also been linked to low testosterone and a Philadelphia weight loss doctor may be able to help you lose weight.
One common myth is that masturbation may lower testosterone levels, however, there is no clear evidence that suggests this is true, in fact, research indicates a short-term increase in testosterone levels after masturbation generally followed by a return to baseline levels.
Common Symptoms of Low Testosterone
Symptoms of low testosterone can vary and manifest differently in everyone, however, certain common symptoms may be a sign that you have low testosterone.
Low testosterone can hinder a man’s sex life. One of the most prevalent symptoms of low testosterone is a low sex drive resulting in a decreased interest in sexual activity. Erectile dysfunction, which includes difficulties in achieving and/or maintaining an erection, can also be linked to low testosterone levels. Testosterone is essential for the production of sperm in the testes so low testosterone and sperm count have a correlative relationship.
Furthermore, low testosterone can affect a man’s daily life in many ways. Low testosterone can lead to decreased energy levels resulting in an individual feeling tired and lethargic and making it harder to complete their daily activities. As testosterone is essential for maintaining muscle strength and mass, low testosterone can lead to muscle atrophy and weakness.
Low testosterone can lead to reduced bone density which can increase the risk of osteoporosis. It can also lead to increased body fat, especially around the abdomen. Finally, men with low testosterone may experience mood swings, irritability and even depression.
As you can see, testosterone plays an important role in men’s health from a man’s sexual health to a man’s physical and mental health, low testosterone can lead to a deterioration of a man’s quality of life. Luckily, TRT can improve your life.
What Is a Dangerously Low Testosterone Level
The normal testosterone level for adult men can vary depending on the measurement units used by different laboratories, however in general, the typical range for testosterone levels in adult males is around 300 to 1000 nanograms per deciliter. Testosterone levels are determined by a blood test. If the test finds that testosterone levels are significantly below the range for a normal male, you may have dangerously low testosterone. If you are experiencing any of the common symptoms of low testosterone, contact a medical professional for a consultation. Testosterone replacement therapy in Philadelphia can help.
Treatment Options for Low Testosterone
If you discover that you have low testosterone levels, the good news is that there are treatment options available for treating low testosterone. In some cases, lifestyle modifications can help manage low testosterone levels. Regular exercise, especially resistance training, can stimulate testosterone production and enhance muscle strength. A balanced diet rich in essential nutrients can positively affect testosterone levels with foods such as lean meats, nuts, seeds, and leafy green vegetables having been shown to be beneficial. Quality sleep and stress management are also critical in regulating hormone levels.
However, lifestyle modifications alone may not treat ED. Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) aims to supplement the body with testosterone to bring back levels to the normal range and alleviate symptoms associated with low testosterone. TRT is a beneficial erectile dysfunction treatment.
Safe TRT treatment is commonly prescribed to men experiencing common symptoms related to low testosterone such as reduced libido, fatigue, erectile dysfunction, muscle loss, and mood changes.
TRT treatment benefits can be substantial. TRT treatment can affect libido and sexual function increasing sex drive and improving erectile dysfunction. TRT can also support muscle growth and maintenance especially when combined with regular resistance training.
Furthermore, benefits of TRT include increased energy levels, helping to maintain bone density thus reducing the risk of osteoporosis, reduced body fat, and improved sleep quality.
Seek Medical Help? Contact Alpha Men’s Center
If you are experiencing problems with low testosterone, the team at Alpha Men’s Clinic can help. They specialize in men’s health issues such as low testosterone, erectile dysfunction, and weight loss. Contact Alpha Men’s Center at 484-685-1301 or book an appointment to discuss your situation, explore your options, and talk about any questions or concerns you may have.