As we age, we often dismiss feelings of weakness, tiredness, and sleeplessness as a natural progression of where we are in our lives. The problem is, these symptoms aren’t always the result of our age. Hormone imbalances, especially low testosterone can lead to erectile dysfunction, affect sleep, mood, the size of testicles, and so much more. It can also lead to lower bone mass, less muscle, and a reduced sex drive. If you’re wondering how low T affects men specifically, then this article is here to help you answer any questions you may have.
Low T Can Lead to Problems “Down There”
There are a lot of ways that Low T can affect men, but some of the most concerning problems are usually “down there.” Men with lower testosterone might notice that their testicles are smaller, even when it isn’t cold outside. In addition, the scrotum may feel softer than normal. When you don’t produce testosterone, you stop producing as much sperm. This is also the reason that many men may notice a reduction in their ejaculate. This is the fluid that helps sperm move towards the egg. Lastly, when you aren’t producing testosterone, and the level of semen goes down, it can lead to fertility issues in men.
Low T Can Cause Mood Swings
If you are suffering from lower levels of testosterone, you may find it hard to fall asleep, or even stay asleep. Low testosterone levels are especially common in men who have sleep apnea. As it goes when anyone loses sleep, this can cause mood swings, or changes in mood. Men report feeling a lack of focus, a lack of motivation and drive, feeling irritable, and often depressed. Interestingly, testosterone replacement therapy has been shown to significantly improve depression symptoms and overall quality of life.
What Causes Low Testosterone Levels?
It is completely normal for testosterone production to gradually decrease after a certain age in men, but younger men may also have lower production of testosterone for a variety of reasons. In men, hypogonadism, or the condition where testicles produce very little to no testosterone, can occur at any age. Conditions that may cause hypogonadism include the following:
Testicular injury, infection, or damage
Cancer treatments that include chemotherapy, or radiation
Hormone disorders including pituitary gland disease
Genetic conditions
Alcohol abuse, drug abuse, and certain medications such as corticosteroids or opiate pain relief
When It Might Be Time To Consult a Health Professional
There are many cases where low testosterone doesn’t present any obvious symptoms, and as a matter of fact, many men learn about it after a routine physical examination that includes blood work. These men often report that they simply felt tired, or unmotivated. Anyone experiencing any of the symptoms listed above though, should schedule a consultation to discover the exact cause and potential treatments available.
Treatments for Low T
When it comes to treating lower production or no production of testosterone, the most common treatment is testosterone replacement therapy. Health professionals may only prescribe testosterone replacement therapy if there are more than one symptom of low testosterone, and there is a blood test result that indicates deficiency. Testosterone replacement therapy can be done in a variety of different ways:
Skin patches or gels
Tablets that dissolve in the mouth
Injections or pellet implants that release the hormone
Many men notice relief from symptoms within a few weeks, about 4 to 6, after starting testosterone replacement therapy.
At Peak TRT and Wellness, our client’s health is our first priority. We’ve reimagined men’s healthcare by identifying and treating underlying conditions. Our goal is to help each gentleman we work with create a comprehensive health plan that is based on an entire picture of their health, then to safely monitor their progress. This includes hypertension, high cholesterol, diabetes, and so much more. Book an appointment today for a health assessment that includes bloodwork and hormone levels – including low testosterone. If you have symptoms, we’ll help you figure out what needs to be done so you can live your best life!
コメント