During your young adulthood, as a man, you generally don’t have problems with physical strength or energy. However, as you age, you may start to notice fatigue, physical weakness, and perhaps even weight gain. There are several reasons why this can happen. However, it’s important not to overlook the role of testosterone. When T levels drop too much, it can cause problems. In this article, we take a closer look at male hypogonadism. We consider the causes and symptoms, as well as what is the treatment for Hypogonadism in men.
What is Hypogonadism?
Male hypogonadism refers to a condition where the body has too few sex hormones. For men, this generally means having low T. Testosterone plays a crucial role in various functions.
There are two types of hypogonadism.
Primary hypogonadism begins in the testicles.
Secondary hypogonadism begins with a problem in the hypothalamus or pituitary gland, which work together to signal the testicles to produce testosterone.
The hypothalamus is a complex part of the brain. One of its most important tasks is to link the pituitary gland with the endocrine system, a complex system of glands and organs.
The hypothalamus produces gonadotropin-releasing hormone, which signals the pituitary gland to make follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH). Luteinizing hormone then signals the testes to produce testosterone
What are the Risk Factors?
You can be born with hypogonadism as an inherited trait. There are also several medical conditions that can raise the risk of hypogonadism. Research has linked type 2 diabetes and obesity, among other conditions, to lower T levels.
Type 2 diabetes and obesity, for example, are linked to lower T levels. Aging also plays a role, as the male body begins to produce less testosterone after the age of 30. Chronic opioid use is another important contributing factor to consider.
What are the symptoms of hypogonadism?
Early signs and symptoms can include:
- Decreased sex drive
- Depression
- Decreased energy
- Erectile dysfunction
- Infertility
- Decrease in hair growth on the face and body
- Decrease in muscle mass
- Development of breast tissue (gynecomastia)
- Loss of bone mass (osteoporosis)
What happens to untreated hypogonadism?
- Mental and emotional changes
- Difficulty concentrating
- Hot flashes
- Increased risk of bone fractures
What are risk factors for hypogonadism?
- Cancer treatment results from chemotherapy or radiation
- AIDS/HIV-these diseases can affect the hypothalamus, the pituitary, and the testes
- Pituitary disorders result from an abnormal pituitary gland or a tumor in the brain
- Malnutrition
- Obesity
- Aging
- Inflammatory disease
- Kallman’s Disorder
How do You Treat Hypogonadism?
Testosterone therapy comes in a variety of forms.
Oral
It’s common to get an oral solution when you need to treat hypogonadism. Testosterone undecanoate, or Jatenzo, is FDA-approved. It is absorbed by the lymphatic system and may avoid the liver problems associated with other oral forms of testosterone.
Gel
There are several gels and solutions available.AndroGel, Testim, and Vogelxo are good examples. You rub the gel into the skin on your upper arm or your shoulder. If you use Fortesta, on the other hand, you apply it to the front and inner area of your thigh. Your body then absorbs the testosterone through the skin.
Injection
Testosterone cypionate (Depo-Testosterone) and testosterone enanthate are given in a muscle or under the skin. These injections can be given at home. Testosterone undecanoate (Aveed) is given by deep intramuscular injection, typically every 10 weeks. It must be given at a provider’s office.
Patch
Another option is to apply a patch that contains testosterone. You’ll usually see Androderm as the brand doctors recommend. It goes on the torso or thighs.
Gum and cheek
A small putty-like substance, gum-and-cheek testosterone replacement delivers testosterone through the natural depression above the top teeth, where the gum meets the upper lip. This product, taken twice a day (every 12 hours), adheres to the gumline and allows testosterone to be absorbed into the bloodstream.
Nasal
You spray this testosterone solution, of sold under the brand Natesto, in your nostrils. The administration method can reduce the risk of transmitting the compound to another person through skin contact. Your doctor will give you specific instructions. In many cases, you need to add to sprays in each nostril, up to three times a day.
Implantable pellets
Testosterone-containing pellets (Testopel) are surgically implanted via an incision under the skin every three to six months.
What are the Benefits of Using Hormone Therapy to Treat Hypogonadism?
The male body needs T for sexual development. It also needs it for reproductive function, building muscle bulk, maintaining healthy levels of red blood cells, and maintaining bone density.
The hormone may help counter the signs and symptoms of male hypogonadism. Some of these include a decreased sexual desire, decreased energy, a reduction in facial and body hair, and loss of muscle mass and bone density.
There are mixed results when we look at studies about TRT and the cardiovascular system. Some studies show improvements in inflammatory and metabolic markers. These are considered cardiovascular risk factors. However, long-term studies are still needed to make a more conclusive finding on the connection.
Treating normal aging with testosterone therapy is not advisable. If you don’t have a medical condition contributing to your decline in testosterone levels, there are natural ways we can suggest to help boost testosterone, such as losing weight and increasing muscle mass through resistance exercises.
How Androgenix Can Help
If you feel like you have the classic symptoms of low testosterone, the first step is to get a series of blood tests done. This can help you get a better idea of your T levels. At Androgenix, we can help you get the right tests. Our experts will then discuss your test results and ensure you understand whether low testosterone or hypogonadism might be the reason behind your symptoms. We also help men create a personalized treatment plan tailored to their individual needs.
If you’re ready to start your journey, book a consultation by reaching out to Androgenix.
