Low Testosterone
Testosterone is the most important hormone for the normal growth and development of male sex and reproductive organs.
Low Testosterone, and treatments…
Men’s T levels naturally decrease as they age, which leads to Low T. But if the levels drop below the normal range – whether be-cause of age, injury to the testicles, pituitary gland or hypo-thalamus, or a genetic disorder – some uncomfortable and often distressing symptoms may develop, including:
- Diminished interest in sex
- Regression of secondary sexual characteristics, such as facial hair and deepening of the voice
- Impotence or erectile dysfunction
- Depression
- Fatigue
As many as six million men may suffer from Low T, often associated with a condition called hypogonadism, but only five percent are being treated.
Left unchecked for too long, this condition is linked with significant, long-term health problems, such as loss of muscle mass and even osteoporosis. Fortunately, though, testosterone deficiency is usually very treatable.
Treatment can take the form of testosterone replacement therapy, which helps provide and maintain normal levels of testosterone. Men should ask their health care providers whether testosterone replacement therapy is appropriate for them.
What is Testosterone?
Check Your T: In the male body, testosterone is the most important sex hormone. Testosterone is responsible for development of male characteristics such as body and facial hair, muscle growth and strength, and a deep voice. Normal levels of testosterone also influence the production of sperm, promote sexual function and promote sex drive.
We now know that some men’s bodies do not make enough testosterone. These men may experience uncomfortable and sometimes distressing symptoms. Researchers estimate that low testosterone (hypogonadism) affects from 2 to 6 million men in the U.S. with only 5% receiving treatment.
If you have Low T, the good news is that the condition is treatable. There are several FDA-approved testosterone replacement therapies:
- Different gels are applied on the skin. Depending on the gel, it may be applied by hand, pump or applicator.
- Most injections are administered every 1-2 weeks but some are effective for up to 10 weeks.
- Skin patches are applied to the back, abdomen, upper arm or thigh.
- Pellets are implanted under the skin by a physician.
- Mouth patches — small, putty-like substances — are placed where your gum meets your lip.
To see if you are at risk for low testosterone, answer “yes” or “no” to the following questions.
1. Libido
Do you have a decrease in libido (sex drive)?
2. Energy
Do you have a lack of energy?
3. Strength/Endurance
Do you have a decrease in strength and/or endurance?
4. Height
Have you lost height?
5. Enjoyment
Have you noticed a decrease in enjoyment of life?
6. Emotion
Are you sad and/or grumpy?
7. Erection
Are your erections less strong?
8. Sports
Have you noticed a recent deterioration in your ability to play sports?
9. Tired
Are you falling asleep after dinner?
10. Work
If you answer “yes” to question 1 or 7, or at least three of the other questions, you may have low testosterone.
Be sure to discuss the results of this quiz with your health care provider.
As many as six million men may suffer from Low T, often associated with a condition called hypogonadism, but only five percent are being treated.
Left unchecked for too long, this condition is linked with significant, long-term health problems, such as loss of muscle mass and even osteoporosis. Fortunately, though, testosterone deficiency is usually very treatable.
Treatment can take the form of testosterone replacement therapy, which helps provide and maintain normal levels of testosterone. Men should ask their health care providers whether testosterone replacement therapy is appropriate for them.
Latest News
