Testosterone deficiency

What is testosterone deficiency?

Testosterone deficiency, also known as low testosterone or hypogonadism, is a condition where the body does not produce enough testosterone. Testosterone is an essential male sex hormone that plays a key role in many bodily functions.

Some key facts about testosterone deficiency:

• It can happen at any age, but becomes more common in men over 30 years old. Around 5 million men in the US suffer from low testosterone.


• Main symptoms include:
  
  
  • Low sex drive
  
  
  • Erectile dysfunction
  
  
  • Fatigue
  
  
  • Loss of muscle mass
  
  
  • Increased body fat
  
  
  • Mood changes - irritability and depression
  
  


• Causes can include:
  
  
  • Normal aging
  
  
  • Injury or infection of the testes
  
  
  • Radiation treatment
  
  
  • Chemotherapy
  
  
  • Chronic illnesses
  
  
  • Obesity
  
  

If you suspect you suffer from low testosterone, it's important to have your levels tested. A simple blood test can confirm if your testosterone falls under the normal range.

Diagnosing Testosterone Deficiency

To diagnose testosterone deficiency, a doctor will:

• Ask about symptoms — fatigue, low libido, erectile dysfunction?


• Examine the testes — small size can signal issue.


• Test testosterone blood levels — Total and free testosterone levels under 300 ng/dL often indicate hypogonadism. Levels vary throughout the day, so tests are usually done in the morning.

Treating Low Testosterone

The good news? Testosterone deficiency is highly treatable with prescription hormone therapy designed to restore levels. Treatment is customized based on factors like age and symptoms.

Options may include:

• Testosterone injections


• Patches


• Gels


• Pellets implanted under the skin

Potential Benefits of Testosterone Therapy

When properly administered under a doctor's supervision, testosterone therapy offers many advantages:

• Increased energy and endurance


• Improved sexual function — drive, performance and satisfaction


• Enhanced mood and cognitive functions


• More muscle mass and strength


• Reduced body fat


• Stronger heart health


• Healthier cholesterol levels


• Better bone density


• Overall gains in quality of life!