Low Testosterone: Causes, Effects, and Management
Testosterone levels naturally decline in men from around 30 years old, dropping by about 1% each year. However, several factors can accelerate this decrease, leading to low testosterone levels, which can cause a range of physical and emotional changes.
Causes of low testosterone include aging, thyroid conditions, injury, infections, and other health issues. Lifestyle factors like obesity, especially excess belly fat, smoking, high alcohol consumption, chronic stress, poor diet, lack of sleep, and medical conditions such as type 2 diabetes or chronic illnesses can also contribute. Exposure to endocrine disruptors and certain medications may further lower testosterone levels.
Low testosterone can impact sex drive, leading to reduced desire and fewer spontaneous erections. It can also cause sleep disturbances like insomnia and sleep apnea. If insomnia persists, doctors may recommend sleeping medications. Other emotional changes can include sadness, depression, memory and concentration issues, and lowered motivation. Physical changes may include increased body fat, decreased muscle mass, low bone density, hair loss, and breast tissue changes. Erectile dysfunction medication may help if this is one of the effects of low testosterone.
To manage low testosterone levels, doctors may recommend blood tests, including total testosterone, SHBG, calculated free testosterone, serum LH/FSH, and semen analysis. Testosterone therapy can be delivered through injections, patches, gels, mouth patches, or pellets, but is not recommended for those at high risk of prostate cancer. Lifestyle changes like exercising more and losing weight can help slow down the decrease in testosterone levels.
Low testosterone levels can significantly impact a man's physical and emotional well-being. Understanding the causes and effects, and seeking medical advice when necessary, can help manage this condition effectively. Lifestyle changes and testosterone therapy, when appropriate, can help improve quality of life.
Read also:
- Rise in Flu Cases: Timing and Reasons Explored by Medical Experts for Flu Vaccination
- Nursing Infants: Advantages, Factors to Ponder, Guidelines, Essential Gear
- Anticipated Increase in Uninsured Residents to Pose Challenge for Local Healthcare Infrastructure
- Accusations of poor care and supposedly poor hygienic standards at LaSalle Hospital
