Low Testosterone Male Hypogonadism UNC Mens Health Program
Low Testosterone: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
In some cases, the etiology is obvious (e.g., iatrogenic causes), in others, a karyotype may be warranted to establish a diagnosis of KS (47, XXY).169 In other cases, it may not be possible to establish a definitive etiology. While the precise correlation isn’t understood, low testosterone is linked with causing and worsening depression, anxiety, and irritability. Other effects of low testosterone levels, such as sexual dysfunction and tiredness, can worsen these issues.
Men and women need the proper amount of testosterone to develop and function normally. However, the optimal amount of testosterone is far from clear. Some men are born with conditions that cause low testosterone. Also, some boys who are delayed entering puberty (after age 14) may also benefit from testosterone injections. First, other problems, including isolated gonadotropin deficiency (a lifelong deficiency of certain puberty hormones), should be ruled out. While testosterone is necessary for producing sperm, Dr. Rogers says, external testosterone replacement will lower sperm counts.
The mortality of men with testosterone deficiency is significantly higher than among men with normal testosterone levels. But, it is unclear whether replacing testosterone to a normal level reduces that increased mortality. Treatment is largely focused on the treatment of symptoms, not the specific testosterone level.
This is mostly dependent on factors such as age and underlying medical conditions. That’s because they don’t manufacture sufficient levels of testosterone for optimal growth and health. Between 19 and 39 percent of older men may have low levels of testosterone. Genetic variants that affect the Y chromosome and the sex hormone-binding globulin may result in a higher risk for low testosterone. SHBG is a protein that what helps testosterone levels (https://www.aufzu.de) deliver testosterone to the body’s tissues.
It also can affect people with sickle-cell disease, thalassemia, or alcoholism. Testosterone comes in several forms, including shots, gels, patches, and tablets you place on your gums. Injections are the least expensive option, but they can be painful.
A primary care physician may refer an individual to a urologist, who specializes in diseases of the male reproductive system, or to an endocrinologist who specializes in hormone-related diseases. It is important to remember that males typically lose testosterone as they age, and the potential benefits of lifestyle changes also decrease over time. Many people experience hair loss as a natural part of aging, and age-related hair loss can also affect anyone. However, as low testosterone causes a decrease in mass, the function and strength of the muscles do not diminish, according to a 2016 review. Testosterone production can slow as a person ages, and many older people experience symptoms of low testosterone.
A variety of factors – from injury to obesity – can lead to low testosterone. The most common symptoms of low testosterone are low libido (sex drive), erectile dysfunction, decreased energy levels, decreased muscle mass and brain fog, characterized by a lack of focus and mental clarity, Dr. Rogers says. The American Urological Association estimates that 20 to 50 percent of men have testosterone deficiency. Low testosterone levels in males can lead to erectile dysfunction. They can also affect sleep, mood, the size of the testicles, and more.
Without enough sperm, they may not be able to father a child. A doctor will typically only prescribe TRT if the person has several symptoms of low testosterone and blood test results that indicate a deficiency. For example, a bone density test can show diminished bone mass, one result of low testosterone. Females may also experience specific low testosterone symptoms, such as the following.
These are classic consequences of decreasing testosterone levels, but they may also indicate other conditions. The only way to know for sure is to visit The Endocrine Center for a simple test. Testosterone therapy is approved for the treatment of delayed male puberty and abnormally low production of testosterone secondary to malfunction of the testes, pituitary or hypothalamus. To diagnose low testosterone, your doctor will ask questions about your health history, give you a physical examination, and assess you for possible signs and symptoms of low testosterone. If low testosterone is suspected, a blood test measuring the level of testosterone in your blood can verify the diagnosis. Testosterone is a sex hormone that’s primarily responsible for helping develop male characteristics like facial hair and a deeper voice.
