Testosterone is a hormone known as an androgen, which plays a role in male traits and reproductive activity. Produced in the testicles for men, and the ovaries for women, the hormone testosterone is responsible for various functions, but most importantly growth and sexual development.
The hypothalamus and the pituitary gland are responsible for controlling the amount of testosterone that’s secreted into the bloodstream and throughout the body. Although this hormone presents itself in greater quantities in males, women also produce a small amount of the hormone in their adrenal glands.
Without testosterone, a man’s internal and external reproductive organs won’t be able to properly develop and make sperm, which is essential in adult life. Most importantly, a deficiency in testosterone can result in the development of serious, long-term effects on the body. If you are experiencing symptoms, take our low testosterone quiz below.
Having a “deficiency” means that the body does not have enough of something, in this case, testosterone. As we age, naturally our mind and body do too. While it’s unlikely that a man will have a problem producing too much testosterone, it’s not uncommon for some men to experience low testosterone levels or a deficiency. This is known as Testosterone Deficiency Syndrome (TD) or Low Testosterone (Low-T).
In other words, age naturally affects our body’s processes. Men need enough testosterone to make sperm. As levels decrease with age, older men tend to have more complications due to low testosterone levels during the male version of menopause called andropause.
Research has shown, that especially for middle-aged men (30-60 years old), their hormone levels begin to decline at an average rate of 1-2% every year. According to The American Urology Association (AUA), a diagnosis of low testosterone in the blood is indicated if a man has levels less than 300 nanograms per deciliter (ng/dL). Low-T can cause a wide range of symptoms and conditions on a scale from mild to severe, including:
There could be many other possible reasons for these symptoms to occur such as drug use, congenital conditions (medical disorders you are born with), loss or injury to the testicles, obesity, and more. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s important to consult with your doctor immediately. Don’t wait, as problems can exacerbate quickly.
Studies suggest that low testosterone can be a serious risk factor for more severe long-term complications if left untreated. An article in the Cleveland Clinic’s Men’s Health Advisor showed low testosterone to also be linked to sexual dysfunction and impaired concentration, just to name a few.
As there’s a lot of research and information out there about hormone deficiency and the effects of low testosterone in older men, it’s extremely important to consult with a licensed medical professional and ask the important questions before undergoing any type of treatment or procedure.
Persistent feelings of tiredness/fatigue, low libido, weakness, weight gain, joint pain, and muscle aches, depression, anxiety, insomnia. Does this sound like you? With this in mind, no symptom of testosterone deficiency should be ignored.
We know this time can be difficult. While you’re searching the internet for answers, trying to figure out the best solution to why you may be experiencing these common symptoms associated with low testosterone, our team at Androgenix can help find out the answer to your problems in a more efficient and professional manner.
If you’re worried about your testosterone levels, our low testosterone quiz can help you determine if you may be a candidate for hormone optimization therapy.
Contact Androgenix Advance Health & Wellness Center today for more information on how we can help you be the best version of yourself.
Book an appointmentContact Androgenix today for more information on how we can help you be the best version of yourself.