Have you been noticing certain changes in your life – perhaps experiencing a reduced sex drive, sexual dysfunction, depression or unwelcome changes to your physique?
You may be thinking that these changes are simply a product of aging, but this is not necessarily so. It is possible that what you are experiencing may be the result of low testosterone.
Low testosterone, also known as Low T, can be caused by a few different things. It is most commonly related to hypogonadism, which is a decrease in the function of the sex organs.
While it is true that the gradual reduction of the production of testosterone is a natural part of the aging process, there is a defined range within which your T-count should remain.
Low T is typically defined as having a T-count below 300ng/dl (nanograms per deciliter).
What is the Cause of Low T?
Low testosterone could indicate one of three different general problems:
- A signaling problem between the brain and the testes
- The brain might mistakenly sense too much testosterone in the body and cut production
- A problem with the testes themselves
This can be classed as either primary (a problem with the testes) or secondary (a problem with the pituitary gland or hypothalamus within the brain) hypogonadism.
Hypogonadism can be the result of numerous different factors including:
- Medications
- Inflammatory diseases
- Injury to the testes
- Genetic abnormality or chronic hormone disorder
- Undescended testicles
- Hemochromatosis (an excess of iron in the body)
- Chemotherapy or other radiation treatment
- Toxic damage (could be caused by excessive exposure to alcohol, heavy metals, etc)
- Obesity
- Diabetes (as many as 50% of men with diabetes may also be diagnosed with Low T)
- High blood pressure
- High cholesterol
- Asthma/Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
If you are experiencing signs of Low T in combination with any of the above risk factors and potential causes, it would be a good idea to consult your doctor about the possibility of having Low T.
What Purpose Does Testosterone Serve in the Body?
The hormone testosterone is most commonly associated with the male sex drive and performance, but testosterone actually serves several different functions within the body.
Testosterone:
- Maintains the strength of reproductive tissue
- Stimulates sperm production
- Increases and maintains muscle mass
- Protects the strength of your bones
- Plays a role in your metabolism
As you can see, testosterone is not just important to your sex life, it is also necessary to maintain your physical and mental health.
Testosterone maintains the strength of your muscles and you bone density. Thus, if your body does not produce an adequate supply of testosterone, you muscular strength will suffer and your bones will become more fragile and prone to breaks. Low T has also been tied to weight gain and bouts of depression.
According to a Denver low testosterone doctor found here, it is advisable to seek medical attention as soon as you suspect low testosterone levels. The longer the condition goes unchecked, the higher your risk for conditions like diabetes, anemia, and heart disease.
If you have been experiencing the symptoms indicative of Low T, is would be in your best interest to consult a doctor.
Your doctor can provide you with a screening to diagnose Low T, as well as recommend the best methods by which you can manage this problem.
Low T can affect your health, your mood and your overall quality of life, so if you suspect that you may be suffering from this hormonal imbalance, be proactive and seek help.
Today, Ryan Brown speaks from personal experience. He suffered from low testosterone for years before he realized there was a way to treat his condition.
Categories: Health | Tags: hormone irregularities, hormone therapy, low t, low testosterone, men's health | Permalink