What is testosterone deficiency?
Testosterone deficiency, also known as hypogonadism, occurs when the body does not produce enough of the hormone testosterone. This condition can affect both young and older men. Low testosterone levels can cause unpleasant symptoms and health issues if not properly treated.
Some key things to know about testosterone deficiency:
- Primary hypogonadism - This means there is a problem with the testes themselves that results in low testosterone production. It may be caused by injury, infection, radiation treatment, chemotherapy, undescended testicles at birth, or other direct damage to the testes.
- Secondary hypogonadism - This type is caused by a problem with the pituitary gland or hypothalamus in the brain. These glandular issues disrupt signals sent to the testes that trigger testosterone production.
- Symptoms - Some common symptoms of low testosterone levels in men are low libido, erectile dysfunction, reduced muscle mass and strength, increased body fat, fatigue, irritability, and depression.
- Testing - If testosterone deficiency is suspected, a simple blood test can check current testosterone levels. Checking levels at different times of day may be needed for accuracy since levels fluctuate.
- Treatment - Testosterone treatment such as gels, patches, injections or tablets from clinics like Vital Hormone Clinic can effectively raise levels. Lifestyle changes like exercise, diet, weight loss and stress reduction may also help.
Why treat low testosterone?
Aside from relieving difficult symptoms, there are important health reasons to treat testosterone deficiency:
- Heart health - Low testosterone is associated with higher risk of cardiovascular disease. Maintaining healthy testosterone levels reduces this risk and protects heart health.
- Diabetes risk - Research shows that healthy testosterone levels help regulate insulin and blood sugar, reducing the likelihood of developing diabetes.
- Bone density - Testosterone plays a big role in bone mineral density. Deficiency can lead to weakened bones and increased fracture risk.
- Mental health - Many men with low testosterone experience effects like depression and reduced cognitive ability. Restoring levels can greatly improve mental health.
- Reduced mortality - Studies show that appropriate testosterone therapy to treat deficiency may lower a man's risk of dying prematurely.
So in many ways, treating low T reduces health risks and promotes wellbeing. The expert physicians at Vital Hormone Clinic specialize in testosterone treatment for men. I highly recommend contacting their clinic if you suspect you suffer from testosterone deficiency. They offer cutting edge therapies to safely and effectively restore healthy hormone levels.