As we have previously discussed on this site, testosterone is an essential human hormone. This is especially true for men. A low level has been linked to a host of symptoms and can lead to serious cardiovascular problems and an early death. Millions of men are afflicted with low testosterone but unfortunately very few seek treatment. Being aware that you have a low level of testosterone is the first step towards treatment.
The big question is what is considered to be “low”? There are a couple of factors affecting this. For one, testosterone peaks in puberty and declines with age over time. The average level of the hormone in a teenager is around 750 ng/dl. By the time males hit their thirties, the average testosterone level is around 650. By the age of 60, average testosterone has declined to 500. Remember to take into account your age when figuring if you have a low level.
Second, everyone’s level of testosterone differs. Some people are just born with naturally higher levels while others lower. This is something innate.
So what’s the best solution to this? For one you can have your testosterone chemically measured. This only costs around $50-75 in most areas. Do a search on the internet – usually they are done at centers that do employee drug testing. And obviously see a doctor if you are concerned.
Low testosterone can be an extremely serious health condition. Unfortunately, very few of the millions of men afflicted with it actually seek treatment. This is because the causes are not always obvious. If you asked the typical man to name a cause, they would probably say physical damage to the testes (maybe a baseball). While this is true, low testosterone can be caused by a huge variety of things. Some of them will not be as obvious as a baseball injury which is why so many men do not suspect they have this problem.
One thing that is important to mention is that the production of testosterone naturally declines with age. Figure around 1% annually after the age of 30. This is sometimes referred to as andropause. This is completely natural. But for those who’s natural levels of testosterone are already low, the gradual lessening of levels over time is enough to become a serious issue.
Here are some other possible causes:
Brain injury – A heart attack, stroke or asphyxiation for an extended period of time can injure the pituitary gland or hypothalamus. These parts of your brain are integral in your body’s production of testosterone and any damage can short circuit the system. Issues can also be caused by diseases that affect this area of the brain.
Testicular injury – Your testicles are the organs that actually produce testosterone. Obviously any damage to it has the potential to disrupt production. This can be result of physical trauma or castration (because of testicular cancer). Radiation therapy and chemotherapy can also inhibit production.
Vasectomy – An autoimmune disorder can develop as a side effect as a result of this surgery. Your sperm are treated as germs and are attacked by your own immune system. Since they are located in close proximity to your testicles, this can result in testicular injury.
Medications – There are a long list of medications that are known to lower testosterone. Most tend to fall into a couple categories, including: anti-hypertensives, antidepressants, tranquilizers and anticholinergics. Talk to your doctor if you are concerned.
Genetically-based conditions – There are a number of conditions that can affect testosterone production. This includes klinfelter’s syndrome, myotonic dystrophy and hemochromatosis.
Many of these causes you will not be able to detect on your own. Low testosterone is a very serious health condition that can even lead to an early death. Take active management and so something about it. It is highly suggested that you seek a doctor.
Society is becoming increasingly aware of the health condition known as low testosterone.
Did you know that 5.6% of men suffer from androgen deficiency, otherwise known as low testosterone? That means over 5 million men in just America alone.
Women have menopause, which is marked by a huge drop in female sex hormone production. However, men have more of a leveling off – around 1% annually after the age of thirty. But low testosterone doesn’t only strike the elderly. The health condition can be caused by a natural drop off in production because of aging but it can be caused by any number of issues .
It is important to get low testosterone treated because not only of diminished quality-of-living but because of health risks as well. Low levels has been linked to cardiovascular and bone problems (including a higher rate of heart attacks at a young age), which could mean a shortened life span.
Here are some low testosterone symptoms to look out for. Like with any issue, it would be a good idea to consult a physician if you suspect you have it.
Sexual issues – This can include everything from the lack of a sex drive to erectile dysfunction. This obviously not only affects you but your partner and possibly your relationship as well.
Fatigue – A general lack of energy. Always feeling lethargic and possibly sleep disorders.
Depressed mood – Linked to fatigue. Never feeling happy. More irritable than in the past.
Bone loss – Could be linked to easy fractures.
Increased Blood pressure
Decreased physical performance – Possibly a loss of muscular strength and endurance. It is very difficult to add muscle despite consistent exercise.
As you can see, the symptoms alone are quite serious and we haven’t even mentioned the serious cardiovascular risks. Clearly low testosterone can negatively impact someone’s life. Fortunately there are treatment options available. This can include everything from creams and supplements to natural ways.
- August 2009 (3)
