Testosterone is the hormone most often linked to physical strength and muscle development. However, this hormone also affects the brain and other body parts. If testosterone levels are too low, an individual’s mental and emotional stability can be affected. In these cases, TRT, or testosterone replacement therapy, may be necessary.
What Exactly Is Low Testosterone?
Low testosterone is also known as male hypogonadism and can occur when the testicles don’t produce adequate amounts of the male sex hormone. The Leydig cells inside of the testosterone are responsible for making testosterone, and when the cells are not functioning properly, this can lead to hypogonadism.
The symptoms of low testosterone vary depending on a man’s age. Although testosterone naturally decreases with age, there are indicators to look for to ensure hormone levels are not too low.
What Role Does Testosterone Play In the Body?
Testosterone is an androgen which means it encourages the body to develop male traits and is necessary for healthy sperm production. The pituitary gland and hypothalamus regulate how much testosterone the body creates and releases to the bloodstream. While females also have testosterone, the hormone is produced at a much higher level in the male body. Testosterone is essential for the reproductive system’s function and contributes to the health of the bones and muscles. Balanced testosterone levels also regulate brain chemicals to boost mood and reduce anxiety and depression. In general, testosterone levels are higher at the beginning of the day and naturally decline as the day progresses.
What Is Considered a Low Testosterone Level?
According to the American Urology Association, an adult male’s testosterone is considered low if it is lower than 300 nanograms per deciliter. However, this is debatable since some health professionals assert that 250 nanograms per deciliter or lower is a sign that a man needs TRT or testosterone replacement therapy.
Several risk factors increase the likelihood of low testosterone. For instance, older men are more at risk for this condition since testosterone is naturally lower in middle-aged and elderly men. Obesity, sleep apnea, liver disease, and untreated type 2 diabetes can also alter testosterone levels.
Studies suggest that around 2% of men suffer from low testosterone, and over 8% of males ages 50-79 have this condition.
Symptoms of Low Testosterone
Indicators of low testosterone vary depending on a person’s age and previous health conditions. Some of the main symptoms include:
- ED (erectile dysfunction)
- smaller testicles
- low or non-existent sex drive
- low sperm count
- significant reduction of pubic or armpit hair
- night sweats or hot flashes
- excess body fat
- depression
- overgrowth of breast tissue
- impotence
- fatigue
- loss of muscle mass
How to Diagnose Low Testosterone
If you’re experiencing low testosterone or think you’re suffering from this condition, your doctor or healthcare professional will recommend a physical exam. You’ll also receive a questionnaire about your health and medication history, or your doctor will ask you about your health history in person. It is also common to have your blood drawn so it can be evaluated to see which testosterone therapy treatments will work best. Blood tests include the Luteinizing hormone blood test and the prolactin blood test. These procedures determine if low testosterone is a result of pituitary gland malfunction or if there are tumors or glandular problems in the body.
Treatment for Low Testosterone
Testosterone replacement therapy is the most common treatment for low testosterone, and there are various therapy types to choose from.
Patients can receive testosterone through skin gels that are applied daily, transferring the hormone to the bloodstream through the skin. Regular injections can also deliver testosterone to the body. Patients often receive these injections at least twice a month, although some decide to get them weekly. Some doctors also offer a more intense version of this treatment, which allows patients to receive an injection once every 10 weeks.
Testosterone patches work for some patients as well. The patches must be worn daily but the location of the patch should be changed often to keep the skin from developing a rash or redness.
Some men choose to use testosterone pellets which are implanted just under the skin to release testosterone at a steady rate throughout the day and night. Buccal tablets are also available. These tablets are applied to the gums no more than two times a day so the testosterone can be delivered to the body through the gums.
It is important to consult with a qualified health professional before receiving testosterone therapy. For instance, men with prostate cancer may not be able to receive this type of hormone therapy. Even if prostate cancer is not found in a patient, if the prostate is enlarged or has a lump, a doctor may choose not to administer testosterone therapy until the patient is tested. Men with breast cancer, heart failure, or sleep apnea are usually not eligible for testosterone replacement therapy.
Paying attention to your body’s testosterone levels can improve the function of your brain and your body. When your hormones are balanced, you’ll find that you have more physical energy, but you’ll also be able to think clearer and regulate your mood. Balanced testosterone levels also lead to a healthy libido, as well as muscles and joints that are less prone to injury. Additionally, serious conditions such as Alzheimer’s are more likely to develop if testosterone levels are too low. n If you’re interested in buying testosterone injections online, Medzone Clinic can help. Book an appointment or schedule a consultation to find out how testosterone therapy can improve your health and well-being.
