Testosterone Deficiency: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Published on: May 11, 2023 / Last Updated on: May 11, 2023 / REGENERATIVE MEDICINE
Testosterone Deficiency: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

It can be difficult to come to terms with the effects aging can have on your body. One of the hardest things both men in women go through later in life is the fluctuation of hormone levels. One example is the decrease in testosterone in those assigned male at birth.

Male hypogonadism, commonly known as low testosterone, is a condition where the body doesn't produce enough testosterone. This can lead to a range of symptoms including decreased libido, fatigue, depression, and loss of muscle mass. While it is more commonly seen in older men, it can affect males of any age.

Educating yourself on this topic is crucial for understanding the causes and symptoms, taking steps toward prevention, and if needed, how to get treatment. This article aims to provide you with everything you need to know about testosterone deficiency and the best treatment options.

What Causes Low Testosterone?

There are several reasons why a man may develop low testosterone. Part of intrinsic aging involves the gradual decrease of the male sex hormone, especially in men over 50. Research has found that nearly 2% of males deal with testosterone deficiency while 8% of males between 50 and 79 suffer from low testosterone.

The main types of significant testosterone deficiency can be categorized as primary male hypogonadism and secondary male hypogonadism. Testosterone is the major male sex hormone and it is produced in the testicle, so any condition that causes low testosterone either relates to the testicles or certain glands that manage hormones.

Primary male hypogonadism involves problems relating to the testicles and their ability to produce testosterone. Other than rare genetic conditions, some acquired conditions relating to testicular problems that can lead to potential testosterone deficiency are:

  • Testicular inflammation (Orchitis)

  • Sexually transmitted infections

  • Chemotherapy/radiation therapy for the testicles

  • Steroid use

The other cause of significant testosterone deficiency is secondary male hypogonadism. Secondary male hypogonadism involves problems relating to the hypothalamus and the pituitary gland. In these conditions, the testicles are not the source of the problem, but rather the parts of the brain that signal the testicles to produce testosterone. Again, other than rare genetic conditions, some acquired conditions that may lead to potential testosterone deficiency are:

Secondary male hypogonadism is also a result of normal aging. But research has found that individuals who are diabetic, overweight, and obese have significantly higher chances of having low testosterone than healthy individuals.

Symptoms of Low Testosterone

Low testosterone can lead to a range of symptoms that can vary depending on the individual including:

  • Decreased libido

  • Erectile dysfunction

  • Fatigue

  • Depression

  • Loss of muscle mass

  • Male infertility (low sperm)

  • Loss of body hair

  • Increased body fat

  • Cognitive difficulties

  • Hot flashes

  • Testicle shrinkage

It is important to note that some of these symptoms can also be caused by other medical conditions, so it is important to speak with a healthcare provider to determine the root cause.

Treatment for Low Testosterone

Although it’s convenient to just order some supplements off the internet and feel content, the path to treatment is never that easy. Testosterone is a form of hormone imbalance so many treatments are types of hormone replacement therapy.

The most common treatment option that individuals with low testosterone opt for is testosterone oral supplements which could be found online or at a drug store. It’s easy to be sold on a testosterone supplement when a strong, masculine man is promoting all its amazing benefits. But in reality, testosterone supplements can be costly and are not always worth the price for their efficacy because they typically have short-lasting effects that require routine dosage.

Another form of testosterone treatment is transdermal patches and gels. These can be more effective and longer-lasting than basic oral supplements. They also have convenient self-application. However, these transdermal treatments can be quite costly and also require frequent administration. They also have the potential side effect of irritating the skin which can be unsightly.

One of the most common treatment options is intramuscular injections. These are typically cheaper than their counterparts but with decent efficacy. They also require less frequent dosing. There is a wide range of testosterone injections with varying effects, however, and it’s important to research which type is best for you. Being a form of injection therapy, it comes with the standard risks of injections. And often, the results cannot be reversed once administered.

The final type of treatment is subcutaneous pellets, also known as bioidentical hormone replacement therapy. BHRT pellet therapy involves the subcutaneous insertion of rice-sized hormone capsules which secrete bioidentical hormones into the body. While requiring clinical administration, this procedure is very effective and can provide effective long-lasting results. And studies show that pellet therapy is effective for low testosterone on the physiological level.

In addition to medical treatment, lifestyle changes can also play a role in managing low testosterone. Some lifestyle changes that may help include:

  • Regular exercise: Exercise can help boost testosterone production and improve overall health.

  • Healthy diet: Eating a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean protein, and healthy fats can help improve overall health.

  • Stress management: Chronic stress can interfere with hormone production, so finding healthy ways to manage stress is crucial for prevention.

Conclusion

Male hypogonadism, or low testosterone, is a common condition that can have a significant impact on quality of life. By understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatment options, individuals can take steps to manage the condition and improve their overall health. If you are experiencing any symptoms of low testosterone, it is important to speak with a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan. And for seeking treatment for testosterone deficiency, consider the options offered by qualified experts at M Health and Beauty.