What are the best treatments for low testosterone? How can men manage symptoms of low-t levels. Find out about fluoxymesterone and other testosterone replacement therapies.

Understanding Low Testosterone and Its Causes

Testosterone is the crucial hormone responsible for male characteristics like a deep voice, muscular build, and facial hair. It also plays a vital role in red blood cell production, mood, bone strength, and cognitive function. As men age, their testosterone levels naturally decline by about 1-2% per year starting in their 40s. This can lead to unwanted symptoms like impotence, depression, reduced muscle mass, fatigue, and weight gain.

However, certain conditions can hasten this decline, including injury, infection, cancer treatments, chronic illness, stress, alcoholism, and obesity. Men with low testosterone levels due to these factors may be candidates for testosterone replacement therapy to restore their levels and alleviate symptoms.

Diagnosing and Evaluating Low Testosterone

Doctors diagnose low testosterone based on a physical exam, review of symptoms, and multiple blood tests. Since testosterone levels can fluctuate daily, multiple measurements are needed. Before starting therapy, doctors may also recommend additional tests, such as a bone density scan, to check for related conditions like osteoporosis.

It’s important to note that not all men with low testosterone levels experience symptoms. Conversely, some men may have symptoms of low testosterone even with normal blood levels. Therefore, doctors consider both lab results and clinical presentation when determining if testosterone therapy is appropriate.

Contraindications and Precautions for Testosterone Therapy

Testosterone supplementation is not recommended in certain situations, including for men with:

• Prostate or breast cancer
• Elevated prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels
• Palpable prostate nodules
• Plans to become a father in the near-term
• Elevated red blood cell count
• Severe, untreated sleep apnea
• Severe lower urinary tract symptoms
• Poorly controlled heart failure
• Recent heart attack or stroke (within 6 months)
• A tendency to form blood clots

Testosterone Replacement Therapy Options

If testosterone therapy is deemed appropriate, there are several delivery methods to consider:

• Skin patches: Applied daily to release small amounts of testosterone through the skin.
• Topical gels: Spread daily onto the skin of the upper arms, shoulders, or thighs.
• Oral capsules or tablets: Swallowed or attached to the gum/inner cheek to be absorbed into the bloodstream.
• Implanted pellets: Slowly release testosterone after being implanted under the skin, typically around the hips or buttocks.
• Injections: Various testosterone formulations administered via injection every 7-14 days.

Most men experience symptom improvement within 4-6 weeks of starting testosterone therapy, although changes like increased muscle mass may take 3-6 months.

Addressing the Underlying Cause

Before initiating testosterone therapy, doctors may first try to address the underlying cause of a patient’s low testosterone levels. For example, if the decline is due to weight gain or a particular medication, the doctor may recommend addressing those issues first before considering testosterone supplementation.

The Role of Fluoxymesterone

Fluoxymesterone is a synthetic androgen medication that can be used to treat low testosterone levels. It is typically taken orally in the form of tablets. Fluoxymesterone works by increasing the body’s production and utilization of testosterone, helping to alleviate symptoms associated with low-t.

While fluoxymesterone can be an effective treatment option, it is important to discuss the potential risks and side effects with your healthcare provider, as with any testosterone replacement therapy.

Conclusion

Maintaining healthy testosterone levels is crucial for men’s overall health and wellbeing. When levels decline due to aging or underlying medical conditions, testosterone replacement therapy may be an appropriate treatment option. However, it’s important to work closely with a healthcare provider to carefully evaluate the potential benefits and risks before starting any testosterone supplementation.

Treating low testosterone levels – Harvard Health

Testosterone is the hormone that gives men their manliness. Produced by the testicles, it is responsible for male characteristics like a deep voice, muscular build, and facial hair. Testosterone also fosters the production of red blood cells, boosts mood, keeps bones strong, and aids thinking ability. Lack of testosterone, often nicknamed, low-t, can cause unwanted symptoms.

Testosterone levels peak by early adulthood and drop as you age—about 1% to 2% a year beginning in the 40s. As men reach their 50s and beyond, this may lead to signs and symptoms, such as impotence or changes in sexual desire, depression or anxiety, reduced muscle mass, less energy, weight gain, anemia, and hot flashes. While falling testosterone levels are a normal part of aging, certain conditions can hasten the decline. Low t risk factors include:

• injury or infection
• chemotherapy or radiation treatment for cancer
• medications, especially hormones used to treat prostate cancer and corticosteroid drugs
• chronic illness
• stress
• alcoholism
• obesity

Millions of men use testosterone replacement therapy to restore low levels and feel more alert, energetic, mentally sharp, and sexually functional. But it’s not that simple. A man’s general health also affects his testosterone levels. For instance, being overweight, having diabetes or thyroid problems, and taking certain medications, such as glucocorticoids and other steroids, can affect levels. Therefore, simply having low-t levels does not always call for taking extra testosterone.

Diagnosing low testosterone

Doctors diagnose low testosterone based on a physical exam, a review of symptoms, and the results of multiple blood tests since levels can fluctuate daily.

If your doctor diagnoses low testosterone, other tests may be considered before therapy. For example, low-t can speed bone loss, so your doctor may recommend a bone density test to see whether you also need treatment for osteoporosis.

Prostate cancer is another concern, as testosterone can fuel its growth. As a result, the Endocrine Society recommends against testosterone supplementation for men in certain situations, including those who:

• have prostate or breast cancer
• have an elevated blood level of prostate-specific antigen (a blood test used to screen for prostate cancer)
• have a prostate nodule that can be felt during a rectal exam.

Other circumstances in which testosterone supplementation is not recommended include: 

• a plan to become a father in the near-term
• an elevated red blood cell count
• severe, untreated sleep apnea
• severe lower urinary tract symptoms
• poorly controlled heart failure
• heart attack or stroke within the last 6 months
• a tendency to form blood clots (a condition called thrombophilia)

Testosterone therapy for low levels

In most cases, men need to have both low levels of testosterone in their blood and several symptoms of low testosterone to go on therapy.

It is possible to have low levels and not experience symptoms. But if you do not have any key symptoms, especially fatigue and sexual dysfunction, which are the most common, it is not recommended you go on the therapy given the uncertainty about long-term safety.

Even if your levels are low and you have symptoms, low-t therapy is not always the first course of action. If your doctor can identify the source for declining levels—for instance, weight gain or a particular medication—he or she may first address that problem.

If you and your doctor think testosterone replacement therapy is right for you, there are a variety of delivery methods to consider, as found in the Harvard Special Health Report Men’s Health: Fifty and Forward.

• Skin patch. A patch is applied once every 24 hours, in the evening, and releases small amounts of the hormone into the skin.
• Gels. Topical gels are spread daily onto the skin over both upper arms, shoulders, or thighs. It is important to wash your hands after applying and to cover the treated area with clothing to prevent exposing others to testosterone.
• Oral therapy. Capsules are swallowed or tablets are attached to your gum or inner cheek twice a day. Testosterone is then absorbed into the bloodstream.
• Pellets.  These are implanted under the skin, usually around the hips or buttocks, and slowly release testosterone. They are replaced every three to six months.
• Injections. Various formulations are injected every seven to 14 days. Testosterone levels can rise to high levels for a few days after the injection and then slowly come down, which can cause a roller-coaster effect, where mood and energy levels spike before trailing off.

Most men feel improvement in symptoms within four to six weeks of taking testosterone replacement therapy, although changes like increases in muscle mass may take from three to six months.

– By Matthew Solan
Executive Editor, Harvard Men’s Health Watch

Everything You Need to Know

Testosterone is a hormone that plays a role in puberty, fertility, and libido. Low levels may cause physical symptoms or mood changes. Treatment options, such as increased exercise or medication, could help boost your levels.

Language matters

In this article, we use “assigned male at birth” and “assigned female at birth” to refer to someone’s sex as determined by their chromosomes, and “men” and “women” when referring to their gender (unless quoting from sources using nonspecific language).

Sex is determined by chromosomes, and gender is a social construct that can vary between time periods and cultures. Both of these aspects are acknowledged to exist on a spectrum both historically and by modern scientific consensus.

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In people assigned male at birth, most testosterone is made in the testes. In people assigned female at birth, most testosterone is made in the ovaries.

People assigned male at birth have higher levels of testosterone than people assigned female at birth. Testosterone influences the development of many physical characteristics. It helps increase muscle bulk, bone mass, physical strength, and body hair.

The levels of testosterone in your body are constantly changing in response to your body’s needs. However, the overall level of testosterone in your body changes throughout your lifetime as well.

Typically, testosterone decreases as you age — particularly in people assigned male at birth. For some people, these levels can become too low and cause unwanted effects that have them looking for ways to increase their testosterone levels.

In order to know whether testosterone levels are too low, a normal level has to be established. This has been a challenge for clinicians. However, according to a press release from the Endocrine Society in January 2017, results from a recent study have helped to define the normal ranges for testosterone levels in those assigned male at birth: 264–916 nanograms per deciliter (ng/dL). This range is for those assigned male at birth between the ages of 19 and 39 years who don’t have obesity.

A testosterone test measures the amount of testosterone in your blood. If a doctor wants to test the hormone levels in your blood, they’ll most likely specify a time of day for your test. Hormone levels are highest in the morning, so this test is often performed in the morning between 7:00 a.m. and 10:00 a.m. Your doctor may have your levels tested more than once.

Your doctor may ask you to stop taking certain drugs before your test, as they could affect your testosterone levels. It’s important to tell your doctor about all medications you’re taking. Include both over-the-counter and prescription drugs.

Testosterone home-testing kits are also available from companies such as LetsGetChecked. They use your saliva to test your hormone levels. After taking the test, you’ll send your sample to a lab for testing.

There may be certain lifestyle changes to help increase testosterone levels, such as adding resistance exercise and losing weight.

Research indicates that resistance exercise, such as lifting weights, is related to temporary increases in testosterone levels.

An older 1999 study suggests that testosterone increases after heavy resistance training are typically much higher in younger than older people assigned male at birth — and overall don’t appear to greatly increase your overall testosterone levels.

Exercise, especially cardiovascular exercise, can contribute to weight loss, which can help to increase levels of testosterone.

In addition to lifestyle changes and increased exercise, there are a few other options available to you that can help boost the amount of testosterone in your body. A few of these options have been proven in clinical trials. Others may claim to increase testosterone level but don’t always provide substantial evidence to back up their claims.

Of course, if you’re concerned about you testosterone levels, it’s a good idea to share your concerns with a doctor. They’ll be able to verify your T levels and help build a treatment plan. Here are just a few of the most common ways to treat low testosterone levels.

Some types of herbal supplements claim to be “testosterone boosters.” The makers of these products claim that the ingredients help to increase levels of testosterone.

However, there isn’t enough research to support their effectiveness, and these products may not actually have ingredients that support their claims.

In fact, a 2020 study tested 50 supplements advertised as “testosterone boosting” and “libido improving.” The researchers found that less than 25 percent of them had data to support their claims, based on their ingredients. Moreover, 10 percent of the supplements tested contained ingredients that have a negative effect on testosterone, according to the study.

Additionally, these products aren’t closely regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). This means that they aren’t tested or evaluated for their effectiveness and could contain undisclosed ingredients or have unexpected side effects. Consider talking with a doctor before taking a “testosterone booster” and discuss with them alternative treatments that are FDA-approved and clinically proven to work.

You may find there are more natural steps that may help to boost your testosterone level.

Some foods may play a role in helping your body moderate your testosterone levels.

Making sure you get enough foods that are rich in zinc and vitamin D may help to keep your testosterone at a normal level.

Here are seven testosterone-boosting foods that could help you get the vitamins and minerals you need to keep your testosterone levels healthy.

A 2018 animal study suggests that zinc supplementation increases testosterone and fertility in those with marginal zinc deficiency.

Testosterone replacement therapy is used to help treat people with abnormally low levels of testosterone.

Abnormally low levels of testosterone can affect normal body functions. They may contribute to decreased muscle mass, a lowered sex drive, erectile dysfunction (ED), and mood changes such as irritability and depression.

Testosterone replacement therapy involves taking prescribed testosterone medication in the form of pills, patches, and gel that you apply to your skin. Testosterone therapy can also come in the form of injections.

Testosterone injections are one of the more common forms of testosterone replacement therapy. They’re typically given by a doctor. You need them less frequently than other forms.

Testosterone replacement therapy has many risks. If you have testosterone replacement therapy, you’ll need frequent blood tests to check your testosterone levels and to monitor potential side effects, including:

• fluid retainment
• acne
• prostate enlargement
• lowered fertility
• sleep apnea
• blood clots
• increased red blood cells

Side effects may vary based on the type of testosterone therapy you use.

Symptoms of abnormally low testosterone can be bothersome and may impact your quality of life. These symptoms can include:

• decreased body hair
• decreased muscle mass
• low sex drive
• ED
• growth of breast tissue

If you’re experiencing one or more of these symptoms and don’t believe they’re caused by something else, talk with a doctor. If your doctor thinks your symptoms are related to abnormally low testosterone levels, they can test your levels.

Low testosterone causes in people assigned male at birth

Testosterone levels in people assigned male at birth remain fairly constant from the start of puberty — when levels spike — until a person’s 30s, when they slowly begin to decline.

For some people, testosterone levels may become abnormally low.

Causes of low testosterone levels include:

• aging
• delayed puberty
• testicular damage (caused by trauma, alcoholism, or mumps)
• hypothalamic disease
• pituitary disease
• noncancerous pituitary tumor
• chemotherapy

A number of genetic diseases can also affect testosterone levels, including:

• Klinefelter syndrome
• Kallmann syndrome
• myotonic dystrophy

Low testosterone in people assigned female at birth

Testosterone plays an important role in people assigned female at birth. However, testosterone levels are naturally lower in these individuals than in people assigned male at birth.

Usually, low levels of testosterone in people assigned female at birth aren’t problematic. However, levels that are too high may cause unwanted symptoms. These include:

• irregular or absent menstrual periods
• infertility
• development of facial and body hair
• deepened voice

High testosterone levels in people assigned female at birth may be caused by:

• polycystic ovarian syndrome
• congenital adrenocortical hyperplasia
• ovarian cancer or tumor
• adrenal tumor

According to the American Urological Association, you should see a healthcare professional if you have any of the following symptoms of low testosterone, including:

• lowered sex drive
• lowered erectile function
• fatigue
• lowered lean muscle mass
• irritability
• symptoms of depression

It’s worth noting that ED can be a symptom of low T levels, but there isn’t a strong correlation showing that testosterone replacement can also treat ED. If you’re experiencing ED, it’s worth talking with a doctor. They can confirm if low T levels are the cause of your ED symptoms or help you explore other alternative treatments that might work better for you.

What happens if low testosterone goes untreated?

It’s common for people assigned male at birth to experience drops in their testosterone levels as they age. However, if these levels are significantly low, there can be a number of short-term and long-term symptoms that someone might experience.

Some of the most apparent symptoms of low testosterone could include ED, lowered sex drive, depression, difficulties focusing on tasks, and an increase in body weight. More long-term symptoms that might develop from untreated low testosterone levels could be a loss of muscle mass and a condition that weakens your bones known as osteoporosis.

What are the potential benefits of testosterone replacement therapy for people with low testosterone?

Potential benefits of testosterone therapy for people with low testosterone include:

• increased libido
• improved sexual function
• improved mood and well-being
• increased muscle mass
• increased bone density

Does testosterone replacement therapy work?

There’s conflicting evidence regarding the benefits of male testosterone therapy for age-related declines in testosterone, according to a 2017 clinical review.

Some studies show improvement in ED in older men, while others don’t. There’s no evidence that testosterone therapy improves ED in men with normal testosterone levels.

Testosterone therapy does appear to increase bone density in the lumbar spine in middle-aged men with testosterone deficiency.

It also consistently increases lean mass while decreasing fat mass, but the effect sizes are small.

Are there different adverse effects of testosterone replacement therapy for people assigned male at birth versus people assigned female at birth?

Side effects of testosterone therapy can vary for people based on their sex assigned at birth. Adverse effects of testosterone replacement therapy in people assigned male at birth may include:

• acne
• erythrocytosis (when you have more red blood cells than normal)
• lowered sperm production
• increased risk of subclinical prostate cancer

Adverse effects of testosterone therapy in people assigned female at birth may include:

• acne
• extra hair growth
• weight gain
• fluid retention
• shifts in mood
• anger or hostility

In rare circumstances, adverse effects may include:

• voice deepening
• baldness
• clitoral enlargement

Are there cardiovascular risks to testosterone therapy?

In a 2015 advisory, the FDA warned that testosterone use is possibly associated with increased cardiovascular risk. However, other reviews of studies didn’t find an increased risk. For now, the effects of testosterone therapy on cardiovascular health remain unclear, but studies are ongoing.

Will I be able to fully replenish my testosterone?

Fully replenishing your testosterone level depends largely on what treatments you explore a your doctor. If you choose to go a more natural route with changes to your diet and exercise routine, you may see an increase in your T levels, but it’s highly unlikely that you’ll be able to get back to the levels you were at in your 20s with diet, exercise, and supplements alone.

Testosterone creams and injections can replace a significant amount of lost testosterone, but since each person reacts differently to these treatments, it’s possible that your T levels won’t be fully replenished.

More importantly, it’s worth discussing the side effects and results of overusing these replacement therapies. You should never increase your dose or the frequency of use without talking with a doctor first. Severe side effects from misusing these treatments can include stroke, heart attack, a higher risk of prostate cancer, liver conditions, and an enlarged prostate.

Testosterone levels in people assigned male at birth decrease a little naturally with age. However, in some people, these levels can be too low and cause unwanted symptoms. Treatment is available, but it’s important for your doctor to confirm your low testosterone levels with one or more blood tests. Your doctor may also do other tests to help determine what’s causing your low testosterone.

For people assigned female at birth, levels of testosterone that are too high, rather than too low, are more concerning. Symptoms of high testosterone may be an indication of an underlying condition that needs to be treated.

What are the symptoms of low testosterone and how to treat it?

Testosterone is the main male sex hormone responsible for the development of male sex characteristics. Produced primarily in the testicles, it also plays an important role in regulating muscle mass, bone density, and fat distribution.

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Important for men’s health, testosterone affects libido, sperm production and overall energy levels. It also affects mood and cognitive function, making it important for both physical and mental well-being. Low testosterone, or hypogonadism, is a common condition in which the body does not produce enough testosterone. It affects millions of men worldwide, with prevalence increasing with age. Although more common in older men, low testosterone can also occur in younger men due to various factors such as injury or illness.

What are some causes of low testosterone?

• Age

  As men age, testosterone levels naturally decrease. This decline usually begins around the age of 30 and continues with age.

• Testicular injury or infection

  Injury to the testicles, such as those caused by physical trauma or surgery, can interfere with testosterone production. Testicular infections can also cause low testosterone levels.

• Genetic conditions

  Some genetic disorders, such as Klinefelter’s syndrome (a condition in which a male is born with an extra X chromosome) or Kallman’s syndrome (a condition that affects the pituitary gland responsible for stimulating testosterone production), can lead to low testosterone levels. testosterone.

• Chronic diseases

  Some chronic diseases, such as liver or kidney disease, obesity and type 2 diabetes, can negatively affect testosterone production. In addition, hormonal imbalances, such as those caused by diseases of the pituitary gland or hypothalamus, can lead to low testosterone levels.

• Drug side effects

  Some drugs can interfere with testosterone production or function. These may include opioids, corticosteroids, and some antidepressants. It is important to discuss any potential side effects with a healthcare professional before starting or changing medications.

• Lifestyle factors

  An unhealthy lifestyle can contribute to low testosterone levels. These factors may include excessive drinking, illegal drug use, poor diet, lack of exercise, and stress. Making positive lifestyle changes, such as adopting a balanced diet, regular physical activity, and managing stress, can help improve testosterone levels and overall health.

Symptoms of low testosterone

• Decreased muscle mass and strength

  Low testosterone levels can lead to decreased muscle mass and overall strength. This is because testosterone plays a critical role in the development and maintenance of muscle tissue. Men with low testosterone levels may notice a decrease in physical endurance and increased difficulty in building or maintaining muscle mass.

• Fat increase

  Low testosterone levels can lead to increased body fat, especially in the abdomen. This is because testosterone helps regulate fat distribution and metabolism. When testosterone levels drop, the body may struggle to maintain a healthy fat balance, resulting in weight gain.

• Low bone density

  Testosterone is essential for bone growth and maintenance. With low testosterone levels in men, a decrease in bone density can be observed, which increases the risk of fractures and osteoporosis.

• Facial and body hair reduction

  Testosterone affects the growth of facial and body hair. Men with low testosterone may experience a reduction in facial and body hair or slower hair growth.

• Gynecomastia (growth of breast tissue)

  Low testosterone levels can lead to an imbalance between testosterone and estrogen levels in the body, causing growth of breast tissue in men, a condition known as gynecomastia.

• Erectile dysfunction

  Testosterone plays a role in achieving and maintaining an erection. Men with low testosterone levels may experience erection difficulties or reduced sexual activity.

• Low sperm count

  Testosterone is vital for sperm production. Low testosterone levels can lead to a decrease in sperm count, which can contribute to fertility problems.

• Decreased libido

  Low testosterone levels can cause decreased sex drive or libido. This may manifest as decreased interest in sex or difficulty with sexual arousal.

• Fatigue

  Men with low testosterone may experience persistent fatigue or lack of energy even after adequate sleep. This can negatively affect daily activities and overall quality of life.

• Depression and mood swings

  Low testosterone levels have been associated with mood disorders, including depression and mood swings. This may be due to the effect of the hormone on neurotransmitters in the brain that regulate mood and emotions.

• Difficulty concentrating

  Low testosterone can lead to cognitive problems, including difficulty concentrating or staying focused. This can affect productivity and daily tasks.

• Sleep disorders

  Testosterone plays a role in sleep regulation. Men with low testosterone may experience sleep disturbances such as insomnia, sleep apnea, or restless sleep. Poor sleep quality can exacerbate other symptoms of low testosterone, such as fatigue and difficulty concentrating.

How to treat low testosterone?

• Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT)

  Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) aims to increase testosterone levels in men with low testosterone levels. There are various forms of TRT, such as injections, gels, creams, and patches.

  Testosterone replacement therapy offers several benefits, including improved energy, mood, libido, muscle mass, and bone density. However, it comes with risks and side effects such as blood clots, sleep apnea, acne, and increased red blood cell count. TRT can also lead to decreased testosterone production, smaller testicles, and reduced sperm production.

• Lifestyle modifications

  • Eating a healthy diet

    A balanced diet rich in nutrients, vitamins and minerals can help support overall health and hormone production. Foods high in healthy fats, lean proteins, and complex carbohydrates are especially helpful in maintaining optimal testosterone levels.

  • Regular exercise

    Regular physical activity, especially weight training and high-intensity interval training, can help increase testosterone levels and improve overall health.

  • Stress reduction

    Stress can contribute to lower testosterone levels. Practicing stress management techniques such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, and yoga can help reduce stress and maintain healthy hormone levels.

  • Getting adequate quality sleep

    Ensuring adequate and quality sleep is critical to maintaining optimal testosterone levels. Aim to get 7-8 hours of sleep per night and maintain a consistent sleep schedule to keep your hormone levels up.

  • Alcohol and drug restriction

    Excessive alcohol and illegal drug use can negatively affect testosterone production. Reducing or eliminating these substances can help improve hormone levels and overall health.

• Alternative Therapies

  • Herbal Supplements

    Several herbal supplements such as ashwagandha, fenugreek and D-aspartic acid have been shown to potentially increase testosterone levels. However, more research is needed to confirm their effectiveness and safety.

  • Acupuncture

    Although the evidence is limited, some research suggests that acupuncture can help improve testosterone levels by improving circulation and reducing stress.

  • Mind and Body Therapy

    Methods such as cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness and relaxation techniques can help address psychological factors that contribute to low testosterone levels, such as stress, anxiety and depression.

Conclusion

Prioritizing hormonal health is critical to overall male well-being, as hormones such as testosterone play an important role in numerous physiological and psychological functions. By focusing on maintaining balanced hormone levels, men can experience a variety of health benefits such as improved mood, increased energy, improved sexual function, and stronger muscles and bones.

Recommendations

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Low testosterone in men: signs, treatment, symptoms

Testosterone is a hormone produced in the testes in men and ovaries in women, and in small amounts in the adrenal glands. It is important for the formation of sexual characteristics, regulates a number of physiological processes in the human body. In men, testosterone is responsible for the quantity and quality of muscles, low tone, hair growth on the face and body, strength and duration of erectile function. In females, testosterone is involved in maintaining healthy bones and muscles, as well as in the regulation of energy and appetite. Reducing the amount of testosterone can lead to a decrease in the quality of life and health.

Content

1. Reasons
2. Symptoms
3. Diagnostics
4. Treatment
5. Recommended medicines

Causes of low testosterone

There are several reasons for the decrease in testosterone levels. These include:

1. Age. This is the most common reason for low testosterone levels. Its decline most often occurs from the age of 30 and later, sometimes it happens abruptly. In men, low levels of the hormone testosterone in this case are explained by changes in the functioning of the pituitary gland and testicles. This phenomenon is called andropause. In this case, there may be a deterioration in erection and a slowdown in muscle growth.
2. Improper nutrition. Lack of vitamins D, E and B12 can lead to low testosterone levels. This is especially true for vitamin D, which can be obtained from foods containing calcium, such as cottage cheese, milk.
3. Obesity. Low testosterone levels in overweight men are explained by the fact that fat is a source of aromatase. Aromatase is a hormone that converts testosterone to estrogen. Estrogen is a female hormone. As a result, there is a decrease in the number of muscles and an increase in adipose tissue.
4. Use of anabolic steroids. Some athletes who use anabolic steroids may also experience low testosterone levels and the consequences of this condition. Their body stops producing natural testosterone, which leads to disorders in the body, namely a decrease in stomach acid and changes in the level of hormones in the blood.
5. Diseases of the hypothalamus and pituitary gland. Directly affect the production of hormones and can reduce their amount.

Regardless of the cause, low testosterone levels can lead to serious damage to various systems in the body. If you suspect low testosterone levels, you should consult a specialist and undergo appropriate treatment. Proper nutrition, moderate exercise, and the absence of stressful situations can help achieve the desired result.

Symptoms of low testosterone in men

Low testosterone levels can present with certain signs:

• decrease or cessation of erection;
• insomnia, sleep disturbances, apathy;
• irritability;
• weight gain;
• development of the body according to the female type, the appearance and sharp growth of the breast;
• decreased attention and memory impairment;
• increased sweating.

The main symptom of low testosterone in men is sudden erectile dysfunction. The lack of morning erections, decreased libido is a reason to be wary. Also, a sudden set of excess weight, the formation of a female figure, the appearance of breasts – all this can be a sure sign of a decrease in testosterone levels.

Diagnosis of low testosterone in men

Diagnosis of the amount of testosterone in the body includes a number of specific studies. These include:

1. Complete blood count. It is used to determine the number of blood cells, shows the presence of inflammation in the body, diseases.
2. Determination of free testosterone levels. The hormone testosterone can be bound to proteins that make it inactive, so the level of free testosterone is determined. This can give more accurate information about its level in the body.
3. Analysis of the level of sex hormones. These include estrogens and progesterone. The amount of these hormones affects testosterone levels.
4. Additional tests may include tests to look for diseases of the thyroid gland and other internal organs that affect the decrease in testosterone.

The choice of tests depends on the individual situation and is recommended only after consulting a doctor.

Treatment

Treatment for low testosterone levels can include both drug therapy and non-drug therapy, which consists of lifestyle changes.
Drug therapy may include testosterone in the form of tablets, injections or gels. However, this is not always the best solution, as such treatment can have side effects, including an increased risk of prostate cancer and the development or worsening of cardiovascular disease.
Lifestyle modification is also needed to treat low testosterone levels. Lifestyle changes include proper sleep and wake patterns, physical activity, minimizing stress levels, and proper nutrition. Lifestyle modifications affect metabolism, hormone levels, and overall health.
Before starting treatment for low testosterone levels, you should always consult a doctor for a health assessment and clarification of the reasons for the decrease in the hormone level. The doctor will be able to prescribe the most effective and safe treatment, as well as help with the right lifestyle changes.

Recommended medicines

There are a large number of drugs in various forms that increase testosterone levels. These include transdermal gels, skin patches, testosterone injections, and tablets.

1. Skin transdermal gels and patches are medicines that are applied to the skin and release testosterone into the blood over time. These medications may be convenient for those who do not want to have injections or if they are not recommended.
2. Testosterone injections. A drug that is injected into a muscle, usually once every two weeks.
3. Tablet form of testosterone.

Before you start taking any of these medicines, it is important to talk to your doctor about all the possible risks and side effects. A doctor can also help select the appropriate treatment for a particular patient, depending on the causes and extent of low testosterone levels.