Low testosterone in men is a condition that can accompany many other health issues. If you’re reading this, it is likely because your doctor has suggested that you get tested for low testosterone. In fact, symptoms of low testosterone in men are so common that they even have their own medical term: hypogonadism. As mentioned in the Red boost, When there’s a dramatic drop in the levels of this hormone, the effects are far-reaching. Some men may not experience any adverse symptoms, while others may show signs of fatigue and loss of libido. However, there may be situations when the effects become serious enough to cause disability or even death if left untreated. In such cases, it’s imperative to seek medical attention as soon as possible to prevent further degradation of your health.

What is Low Testosterone?

Testosterone is a male sex hormone that is responsible for sex drive and function, muscle mass and strength, fat distribution, red blood cell production, and cognitive function. The production of testosterone in men starts to decline around the age of 30, but low levels can occur at any age. Low testosterone occurs when the body is unable to produce enough of the hormone due to issues with the testicles, pituitary gland, or hypothalamus. The most common causes of low testosterone are: Aging (30% of men have low testosterone levels by age 60) Stress Lack of exercise

How does a man’s body produces testosterone?

The testicles produce testosterone, which is then converted into estrogen at the liver then transported to the rest of the body through the bloodstream. Testosterone is also found in the prostate and seminal fluid. Testosterone is responsible for sex drive, building muscle mass and strength, fat distribution, red blood cell production, and cognitive function. The production of testosterone in men starts to decline around the age of 30, but low levels can occur at any age.

Signs and symptoms of low testosterone in men

– Fatigue – Even though you may feel stronger than other men your age, you may feel more fatigued than usual. You will feel lethargic, lack energy and clear thoughts, experience decreased libido, and find it difficult to exercise. – Loss of libido – You may experience a loss in libido, and you may not have the desire to have sex. Low testosterone may also lead to erectile dysfunction. – Muscle loss – You may notice an increase in cholesterol and triglyceride levels, a decrease in hemoglobin, and a decrease in red blood cell production. – Depression – You may experience low mood, fatigue, decreased libido, and a lack of drive. – Cognitive dysfunction – You may experience forgetfulness and difficulty concentrating. – Reduced athletic performance – It may be difficult to recover from workouts, and you may have issues sleeping at night

Causes of low testosterone in men

– Aging – When testosterone levels start to decrease, it can make men feel tired, moody, and lose interest in sex. As you age, your testosterone levels can become lower due to reduced testosterone production in the testicles, decreased production in the gonads (the sex glands), a decrease in testosterone levels in the blood due to increased levels of estrogen (estrogen increases the conversion of testosterone to estrogen), and an increase in SHBG (sex hormone binding globulin that can decrease the amount of free testosterone available to the cell receptors in the body). – Poor diet – A diet that is filled with sweets, soft drinks, and high-fat foods can increase the amount of estrogen in the body and decrease testosterone levels. – Chronic illness – Certain chronic health conditions can reduce the amount of testosterone your body produces, such as kidney disease, cancer, and diabetes. – Certain medications – Certain medications can decrease testosterone levels, such as chemotherapy drugs, the anti-depressant drug sertraline, and the anti-ulcer drug cimetidine.

How to diagnose low testosterone in men

– Blood Test – A blood test that measures testosterone levels can be ordered to check if there is an underlying medical issue that is causing the low levels. – Hormone Test – A hormone test can be ordered to check if SHBG is blocking the body receptors and causing a low level of free testosterone. – Endocrinologist – A doctor who specializes in endocrinology can order a comprehensive evaluation to find out why your levels are low.

Treatment for Low Testosterone in Men

– Hormone Replacement Therapy – This is the most effective treatment for low testosterone. However, it’s important to find the right doctor and follow their treatment plan. – Nutrition – A healthy diet filled with fruits, vegetables, and lean protein can help to reduce cholesterol levels and increase SHBG production. – Exercise – Regular exercise can help to increase testosterone production in the testicles and improve your energy, mood, and muscle strength. – Sleep – Sleep is vital for hormone production and testosterone production is reduced when men don’t get enough sleep. – Stress Reduction – Stress can lower testosterone levels. A stress reduction program can help to reduce stress and increase the amount of testosterone in the body. – Vitamins – Vitamins can help to increase testosterone levels, and they can also help to reduce the symptoms of aging such as osteoporosis, decreased libido, and fatigue.

Conclusion

Low testosterone in men is a serious medical condition that can have serious effects on your physical and emotional health. If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, you should get checked out by your doctor. It can be difficult to diagnose, and it is important to rule out any other medical conditions that may be causing the symptoms. Low testosterone can be caused by various factors, including poor diet, illness, chronic stress, poor sleep, medications, aging, and genetic factors. There are many effective treatments available for low testosterone. Treatment will depend on the cause of the problem and it is important to follow your doctor’s treatment plan.