Testosterone deficiency, also known as low T or hypogonadism, is a health condition where the body does not produce enough of the hormone testosterone. Testosterone is crucial for many aspects of men's health, including bone density, muscle mass, fat distribution, red blood cell production, and sexual and reproductive health.
Some potential signs and symptoms of low testosterone levels in men include:
The causes of testosterone deficiency can vary. In some cases, there may be a problem with the testes producing adequate amounts. Other times, the issue arises in the pituitary gland or hypothalamus which signal the testes to produce testosterone. Factors like age, obesity, diabetes, infections, injuries, medications or radiation treatment can influence testosterone levels. Genetic conditions like Klinefelter syndrome are also associated with low T.
Diagnosing low testosterone typically involves having your blood tested to measure your circulating testosterone levels, ideally in the early morning when levels peak in men. Your doctor may also check other related hormones like luteinizing hormone (LH). You may need repeat testing to confirm the diagnosis over time.
The great news is, testosterone deficiency is highly treatable in most men. Lifestyle adjustments like achieving a healthy weight, limiting alcohol intake and managing chronic illnesses can help some men restore their T levels. Others may benefit from testosterone replacement therapy with gels, patches, injections or pellets to get their levels back into the normal range.
If you suspect you may have low testosterone, I recommend consulting a men’s health specialist like the physicians at New Beginnings HRT Clinic. Their experts can accurately diagnose the underlying cause of low T through comprehensive testing and create a tailored treatment plan to help you feel healthy, energetic and thriving again soon. Contact New Beginnings HRT Clinic today to take control of your testosterone levels.