In men, an essential hormone is testosterone. It has a crucial role in the sexual development and well-being of males. A human who suffers from low levels of testosterone will experience multiple health complications. Many men go through this condition due to ageing. However, understanding its causes and the treatment options can make all the difference for an individual.
What is Testosterone?
Testosterone is a hormone primarily produced in the testes. It is very important to men; it regulates many important functions within their bodies. This may include sex drive, body muscle mass, and, most importantly, how individuals distribute their fats, as well as red blood cell production. The hormone also influences bone density as well as general mood.
Causes of Low Testosterone Levels
Several reasons cause low levels of testosterone, literally hypogonadism. But the most common cause is ageing. The decline in testosterone levels with age is gradual. However, low levels of testosterone in young men do not result from only one cause.
- Age-related Decline
Testosterone levels in males decline by 1 percent every year after age 30, so the decline is gradual. In this regard, many older males will exhibit some of the symptoms of low testosterone.
- Obesity and Lifestyle
The greatest cause for low testosterone levels has proven to be obesity. Any additional body fat makes unnatural imbalances within the different hormones of the human body. Moreover, low activity and diet may make it worse. A man who is overweight runs a greater risk of having low testosterone.
- Medical Conditions
Other medical conditions may impair the production of testosterone. For instance, the glands that produce hormones would be lower in cases of diabetes, kidney disease, and HIV/AIDS. Another reason for low testosterone may include certain forms of injury to the testes, as well as chemotherapy.
- Stress and Mental Health
This is a factor directly influencing the levels of testosterone. The production of cortisol increases at high levels of stress. Cortisol has been proven to suppress the production of testosterone. Mental health disorders include depression, which can result in low levels of testosterone.
Symptoms of Low Testosterone
The symptoms of low testosterone in men vary from one individual to the other. The condition can affect the quality of life and health of a man.
- Reduced Sex Drive
Low sex drive will be caused by low levels of testosterone. Sex drive among males is claimed to be reduced because lesser interest in sexual activity is seen. This is mostly the first symptom that is noticed by the couple.
- Erectile Dysfunction
Testosterone helps cause erection and its maintenance. Thus, low levels in men could be one of the causes of erectile dysfunction. This does interfere with relationships and also self-esteem in these men.
- Fatigue and Energy Dropout
Low levels of testosterone in males result in a general feeling of tiredness. There is usually a lack of energy to perform activities in their day-to-day activities. Therefore, this fosters frustration in several aspects of life and subsequently leads to a low quality of life.
- Loss of Muscle Mass and Strength
Testosterone maintains muscle mass and strength. Low levels cause less muscle mass and physical strength. It further prevents one from being in excellent condition or being active too.
- Changes in Mood
Low levels of testosterone lead to mood swings, irritability, and, sometimes, depression. Men will feel depressed or worried for no apparent reason at all.
Treatment Options for Low Testosterone
Low testosterone among men has various treatment options. The main treatment is determined by the condition, its symptoms, and the patient’s preference.
- Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT)
The most common treatment for low testosterone levels is TRT. These medications raise the testosterone levels in the body and are given through several modes of administration such as injections, patches, and gels. However, this treatment needs to be monitored by a doctor to avoid the potential side effects.
- Lifestyle Changes
The simple lifestyle changes will help in bringing about improvement in the level of testosterone naturally. Keeping fit must become a priority for men, along with maintaining a healthy weight through exercising regularly. Moreover, a well-balanced diet replete with vitamins and minerals also helps in this regard. Another possible avenue for it is to reduce stress through relaxation techniques and proper sleep.
- Medications
Most medical professionals prescribe some medications to treat the primary underlying condition that may contribute to the condition. For example, treating diabetes or any other disease helps in regulating the body’s functions, thereby raising the levels of hormones in the body. Some other drugs can also facilitate the increased production of testosterone.
Risks of Untreated Low Testosterone
Poor testosterone levels will eventually trigger long-term health issues. While untreated low testosterone increases the risk of osteoporosis or weak bones, it has also been linked to obesity and heart disease. Furthermore, low testosterone can affect psychological levels and lead to conditions such as anxiety and depression. Additionally, early diagnosis and treatment are essentials that split the difference between full health and chronic conditions, they also make significant changes to a patient’s lifestyle.
Consulting a Specialist
Low testosterone is something you should immediately bring to a specialist’s attention. A Sexual Medicine Expert in Tamilnadu will be able to offer you more personal care.
These experts know the specific needs that men possess to achieve better health.By consulting the Best sexologist in Namakkal or other specialists, you ensure that you are receiving the right treatment.
Visiting a Men’s Sexual Health Clinic in Tamilnadu would provide special care in sexual health. Men can also see an Expert in Andrology and Men’s Health in Tamilnadu for thorough support.
Finally, the advanced research can serve as the premise for treatment by a Consultant UroAndrologist in Tamilnadu.
Conclusion
Low testosterone has the most profound impact on a man’s life and health. However, one need not lose hope because the condition can be well controlled once diagnosed and treated properly. Lifestyle modification, along with proper treatment and replacement therapy, may help regain normalcy. Whether it is low testosterone or not, never hesitate to seek professional assistance. Act now and hence enhance your health as well as quality of life.
AndroOne – Sexologist and Andrologist In Salem & Namakkal
