Whether you are a young man or an old man, low testosterone can affect you in many ways. It can affect your sexual performance, erectile function and general health. Low testosterone also increases your risk of age-related diseases.
Testosterone is a male hormone that promotes the development of bones, muscles and sperm. It also improves your mood and stimulates libido. Low testosterone can cause several undesirable symptoms, including reduced sexual drive, anemia, low sperm count and weaker bones.
Fortunately, most cases of low testosterone are treatable. There are a number of treatment options, including testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) and hormone optimization therapy. A doctor may prescribe a treatment that is either oral or injectable. Some men may have genetic problems that make them more likely to have low testosterone. Other conditions, including HIV/AIDS, may also cause low testosterone. If you are experiencing low testosterone, see a specialist.
Testosterone is naturally decreased with age. This is called hypogonadism. Symptoms of low testosterone can include decreased sperm count, decreased libido, weak bones and erectile dysfunction. Some men may also experience a slow decline in testosterone, sometimes called andropause. The American Urological Association has issued guidelines for testosterone deficiency.
Testosterone replacement therapy is a treatment option for men with low testosterone. It may be administered as an injection, patch, or gel. It is given at regular intervals. The injections can be uncomfortable and painful. TRT also has the potential to increase the risk of heart attack or stroke. If you are a man considering TRT, speak to your physician about the risk of heart attack.
Testosterone is also affected by certain medications, such as steroids, and medical conditions, including HIV/AIDS and thyroid disorders. Other conditions that can lead to low testosterone include testicular injury, malnutrition, and high stress levels. Medications such as glucocorticoids can also reduce testosterone levels.
Testosterone levels are measured with blood tests. If the test results are low, a doctor may order another lab test. Some physicians believe that a slow decline in testosterone is a normal part of aging. It is also possible for a man to experience hypogonadism during fetal development.
Low testosterone may also be a result of medical conditions, such as diabetes, cancer, and thyroid disorders. It can also be caused by medications, such as insulin. Other conditions, such as steroid use and obesity, can also affect testosterone levels. In addition, certain diseases, such as prostate cancer, affect testosterone levels.
Men with low testosterone have a higher risk of cardiovascular problems. They also have a greater risk of blood clots. Testosterone is also important for developing sperm and semen. It is crucial for healthy reproductive health and muscle strength. Testosterone also helps to protect the body from certain age-related diseases.
Low testosterone is often treated with testosterone replacement therapy, also known as hypogonadism. This treatment is often more effective in young men with low testosterone than older men. It can also help improve erectile function. However, it is not recommended for men who are seeking to conceive.