Testosterone is a hormone produced in both men and women, though men have higher levels than women. While testosterone is usually thought of as a sex hormone to improve the sex drive and sperm production and help maintain erections, newer research shows that it has other important functions, including maintaining bone and muscle strength in men, brain, cognitive and mood support in both men and women.
Low testosterone can lead to hormonal changes that may contribute to type 2 Diabetes. Low T also contributes to osteopenia and osteoporosis and increased mortality.
The rate of decline in testosterone levels in men varies. Levels in some younger men will decline before age 50 but 50% of men above age 50 will show Low T when their bio-available testosterone is measured. (Health & Wellness Magazine, May, 2015; p.10)
A diagnosis of Low T comes when levels fall below 300-800 ng/dl. A blood test is used to determine your circulating testosterone level. (www.healthline.com)
The following symptoms might be an indication of Low T:
*Decreased sex drive
*Impotence
*Loss of muscle mass
*Decreased strength
*Increased body fat
*Decreased appetite
*Decreased red blood cells
*Memory issues
*Mood swings
*Decreased hair growth
*Depression
*Fatigue
Many factors can cause low testosterone. Some of those are:
*Aging
*Chronic medical conditions
*Acute illness, such as AIDS
*Alcohol abuse
*Birth defects
*Testicular infections or injury
*Head trauma
*Environmental toxins
*Nutritional deficiencies
*Chemotherapy
*Type 2 Diabetes
*Obesity
If treatment for Low T is needed, there are various methods used. Serious cases may call for injections, but others may be treated with patches or gels. Even pellets injected in the buttocks can be used to dispense testosterone over several months.
The good news is that Low T is easily treatable. Treatment works and symptoms will disappear. If you are experiencing symptoms such as those listed in this article, talk to your primary care doctor. A simple blood test will ease your mind and get you started on a healthier path.
Additional information from readers is always welcomed.
A testosterone Gel was prescribed in 2012 and shortly after applications I developed DVT in my leg. After reading more about side effects, I concluded that the Gel may have caused that condition which is still being treated with a blood thinner.
Thanks, John, for this information.