What is testosterone deficiency?
Testosterone deficiency, also known as *low T*, occurs when the body does not produce enough of the hormone testosterone. This is a common condition that affects millions of men. Some key signs and symptoms of low testosterone include:
- Decreased sex drive and erectile dysfunction
- Loss of muscle mass and strength
- Increased body fat and weight gain
- Difficulties with concentration and memory
- Irritability, depression or other mood disturbances
What causes low testosterone?
There are several potential causes:
- Aging - Testosterone levels peak in the late teens to early 20s. After age 30, levels decline by about 1% per year.
- Injury or infection - Testicles can be damaged by injury or infection, impacting testosterone production.
- Chronic illnesses - Certain diseases like type 2 diabetes, obesity, and HIV can impair testosterone function.
- Hypogonadism - A defect of the testicles present at birth that affects normal testosterone secretion.
Why does low testosterone matter?
Testosterone is the primary male sex hormone. It plays a crucial role not just in sex drive and function, but also muscle mass, bone density, mood and cognitive abilities. Low testosterone can really diminish a man's vitality and overall health.
Some key health risks include:
- Cardiovascular disease
- Metabolic syndrome and diabetes
- Osteoporosis
- Depression
How is low testosterone diagnosed?
If low T is suspected, a doctor will check blood levels of total testosterone. They may also assess symptoms and perform exams to rule out any underlying illness causing the deficiency. Some key lab tests include:
- Total serum testosterone
- Free testosterone (the active portion)
- Luteinizing hormone (LH)
- Follicle stimulating hormone (FSH)
What are the treatment options?
The good news is low testosterone is very treatable! Treatment can relieve symptoms and reduce related health risks. The main options include:
- Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) - Testosterone medication given via injections, gels, patches or pellets. This reconstitutes testosterone levels back to a normal range.
- Medications - Select drugs like clomiphene citrate that stimulate natural testosterone production.
- Lifestyle changes - Diet, exercise, sleep and stress management help some men raise low levels naturally.
If you think you may have low T, contact the hormone health experts at Balance Hormone Clinic. Their caring medical team can accurately diagnose and tailor an effective treatment plan just for you using cutting edge therapies. Visit