Testosterone

What is the role of testosterone in men?

Testosterone is well-known as the primary male sex hormone. At puberty, testosterone triggers all the changes that make a boy’s body mature, including growing taller and developing body hair. Throughout adulthood, men need healthy levels of testosterone, as the hormone:

• Builds muscle strength and mass
• Strengthens bones
• Produces sperm
• Helps produce red blood cells
• Regulates your sex drive
• Determines fat distribution
• Regulates metabolism
• Supports a steady mood

Like all hormones, testosterone is so essential for your health and well-being that your body constantly monitors its levels. When testosterone levels fall below or rise above the normal range, your brain sends messages telling your testes to produce more or less. 

What symptoms indicate low testosterone in men?

You might feel weaker or notice your performance slipping due to the loss of muscle mass and strength. 

You may gain weight, feel tired and depressed, or notice thinning body hair. In addition to losing your sex drive, you may also develop erectile dysfunction.

What causes low testosterone?

The most common cause of low testosterone in men is a condition called hypogonadism. Hypogonadism occurs when your testicles don’t produce enough testosterone.

Many health conditions can cause hypogonadism, including:

• Mumps during adolescence or adulthood
• Pituitary gland problems
• Metabolic disorders
• Testicular injuries
• High blood levels of iron
• Cancer treatments
• Autoimmune diseases
• Inflammatory disease
• HIV/AIDS
• Diabetes
• Weight challenges

Health problems aren’t the only reason for low testosterone. After the age of 20, men’s testosterone levels naturally decline by 1-2% every year.

How can I improve low testosterone?

Your provider performs a physical exam and runs blood tests to verify your testosterone levels and identify signs of underlying health conditions. If you have low testosterone, the primary treatment is hormone replacement therapy.

Your provider recommends the type of hormone replacement based on your current testosterone levels. If you’re significantly low in testosterone, an injection, implantable pellet, nasal gel, or patch can deliver reliable doses.

As your testosterone levels return to normal, you’ll gradually notice an improvement in your symptoms. Restoring and maintaining your testosterone levels also prevents significant health problems, such as heart disease and osteoporosis.

If you feel sluggish or you’re concerned about a low sex drive, call Advance Practice Care LLC, or book an appointment online today.