Androgenix Blog

Males commonly experience low testosterone levels as they age, along with a range of physical and emotional changes. Typically, men’s testosterone levels begin to drop around the ages of 30 to 40, and they begin hormone replacement therapy (HRT) treatments. For younger males with clinically low testosterone levels, many factors can influence this hormonal imbalance.

What is Low-T?

Testosterone is a steroid hormone primarily produced in the male testicles and the female ovaries. It belongs to a class of male hormones called androgens. Testosterone, in men, is mainly responsible for developing male reproductive tissues, such as the testes and prostate. It also promotes secondary sexual characteristics like increased muscle and bone mass and body hair growth. Beyond its role in physical development for men, testosterone influences various physiological processes throughout life, including libido, sperm production, muscle strength, fat distribution, red blood cell production, and bone density. Testosterone in females is produced in smaller amounts and contributes to bone strength, mood, energy levels, and libido.

“Low-T” refers to low testosterone levels, a condition called hypogonadism. Young males with low testosterone levels might experience various symptoms, including fatigue, low libido, muscle weakness, and mood fluctuations. Both males and females require a balance of sex hormones for optimal health and well-being. An imbalance, either too low or too high, can lead to various health issues and symptoms.

What are the Causes of Low Testosterone in Young Men?

Low testosterone is common for men ages 30 to 40, although an increasing number of young men are experiencing clinically low testosterone levels. Various factors can trigger a drop in testosterone levels in younger males, ranging from underlying medical conditions to lifestyle choices. Understanding the cause of low-T levels is vital, as testosterone plays a pivotal role in male development, affecting physical appearance, muscle mass, mood, and sexual function. Two leading causes of low testosterone levels include primary and secondary hypogonadism, also called mixed hypogonadism. Low-T causes include obesity, chronic illnesses, alcohol abuse, and chronic stress.

Primary Hypogonadism

Primary hypogonadism is a problem originating in the male testicles. The causes of hypogonadism can include Klinefelter syndrome, undescended testicles, testicular injury, and cancer treatments. Klinefelter syndrome is a genetic condition where a male is born with an extra X chromosome. Undescended testicles, also known as cryptorchidism, are when one or both of the testicles don’t descend to their specific place and fail to function properly as a result. Testicular injuries, tumors, and traumas can cause inflammation and impact testosterone production in men. Cancer treatments, such as radiation or chemotherapy, are also causes of low testosterone and hypogonadism.

Secondary Hypogonadism

Secondary hypogonadism is a defect in the hypothalamus or pituitary gland, two parts of the brain that signal the testicles to produce testosterone. The causes of secondary hypogonadism include pituitary gland tumors, inflammatory diseases that impact the hypothalamus and pituitary gland, hormonal medications, and HIV/AIDS. Pituitary tumors are non-cancerous, abnormal growth in the pituitary gland located at the base of the brain. Inflammatory diseases like tuberculosis or sarcoidosis affect the central nervous system (CNS), impacting the hypothalamus and pituitary gland.

Other Causes

Other causes of low-T in young men can include:

• Chronic illnesses like liver cirrhosis, chronic renal failure, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
• Obesity
• Medications such as corticosteroids and opioid pain medications
• Alcohol and substance abuse
• Genetic and developmental disorders
• Chronic stress

Acknowledging the causes is just as crucial as identifying the signs and symptoms of low testosterone levels in young males.

Signs and Symptoms of Low Testosterone

If you think you might be experiencing low-T levels, it’s essential to recognize the signs and symptoms linked to testosterone deficiency (TD). Low testosterone can cause a range of symptoms, causing sexual dysfunction, changes in physical characteristics, mental and emotional symptoms, and changes in blood and cholesterol. Identifying the signs of low-T levels is crucial for addressing the situation quickly and effectively before the condition exacerbates. The signs and symptoms of low testosterone often include:

1. Sexual Dysfunction:

• Reduced libido: A decreased interest in sexual activity.
• Erectile dysfunction: Difficulty in achieving or maintaining an erection.
• Reduced ejaculate volume.

2. Changes in Physical Characteristics:

• Reduced muscle mass and strength.
• Increase in body fat, especially around the abdomen.
• Reduced body and facial hair growth.
• Development of gynecomastia (enlargement of breast tissue in males).
• Decreased bone density, which could lead to osteoporosis.
• Fatigue or reduced energy levels.
• Hot flashes.

3. Mental and Emotional Symptoms:

• Mood disturbances: This can include depression, irritability, or mood swings.
• Reduced cognitive abilities: Issues with memory or concentration.
• Reduced self-confidence or feelings of self-worth.
• Lack of motivation or drive.

4. Sleep Disturbances:

• Difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep.
• Development or worsening of sleep apnea.

5. Reproductive and Genital Symptoms:

• Testicular shrinkage or atrophy.
• Infertility due to reduced sperm count or quality.

6. Changes in Blood and Cholesterol:

• Anemia or reduced red blood cell count.
• Changes in cholesterol levels, specifically an increase in LDL (bad cholesterol) and a decrease in HDL (good cholesterol).

The Emotional and Social Impact of Low-T

Low testosterone in young males affects them physically, emotionally, and socially. The effects of hormonal imbalances, particularly testosterone deficiency, can influence daily life by altering their self-perception, reducing libido and energy levels, and causing mood swings. Young men with low-T levels might experience changes such as poor focus and memory problems, significantly affecting work performance and daily interactions. Mood fluctuations and emotional instability can impact relationships and your social life. This can contribute to feelings of loneliness, depression, and anxiety. Fatigue and lack of motivation can cause social withdrawal from friends and any type of social activity. Low libido levels and sexual dysfunction can also cause young men to avoid romantic relationships due to feelings of inadequacy and low self-confidence.

The societal expectations regarding masculinity can further amplify these feelings of inadequacy, causing young men to be hesitant about discussing their situation or seeking treatment. Treating young males with low-T levels can be administered through testosterone replacement therapy (TRT).

Managing Low Testosterone: Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT) for Young Men

Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) is a standard treatment option for men of all ages with clinically low testosterone levels. The primary goal of TRT treatments is to restore testosterone levels and alleviate any associated symptoms. Testosterone therapy offers young men a range of physical, emotional, and mental benefits. The physical benefits of TRT include reduced body fat, muscle mass maintenance, and increased bone strength. Emotionally and mentally, TRT treatments can improve mood fluctuations, fight off depressive feelings, and restore motivation. Improved testosterone levels can boost libido and enhance sexual performance.

At Androgenix, our testosterone therapy treatments include gels, injections, implants, and skin and mouth patches. For more information about testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) in Manalapan, Wellington, Loxahatchee, and North Palm Beach, FL, contact Androgenix today!

References:

• National Library of Medicine, 2010. A practical guide to male hypogonadism in the primary care setting.
• Mayo Clinic, 2023. Undescended Testicle.