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Do I Have Low Testosterone?

Do you often feel fatigued, irritable, or have you lost interest in sex compared to the past? It could be low testosterone levels, the hormone primarily produced in the testes, responsible for regulating many essential functions in men. In addition to stimulating sperm production, testosterone is crucial for development during puberty, such as the growth of facial and body hair, voice changes, and increased muscle mass. While it's more common in older men, younger individuals can also experience low testosterone.

The only way to know for sure if your testosterone levels are normal is through a blood test. Let's explore the most common symptoms and available treatments for this condition.

What Are Normal Testosterone Levels by Age?

Testosterone levels peak during adolescence and the early twenties, then gradually begin to decline.

After age 30 or 35, testosterone decreases by about 1% per year, a natural process that is part of aging. By age 80, half of men have significantly lower testosterone levels.

However, it's important to note that testosterone can vary not only from day to day but also throughout the same day. Generally, levels are highest in the morning, which is why blood tests are conducted between 7 and 10 AM for more accurate measurement.

Low Testosterone in Young Men

When a man in his 30s or 40s has lower than normal testosterone levels, the cause may be related to underlying health issues. Several conditions can contribute to reduced testosterone, including:

  • Alcoholism.
  • Use of painkillers (currently one of the main causes in young men).
  • Chemotherapy.
  • Diabetes.
  • Hormonal imbalances.
  • HIV/AIDS.
  • Kidney disease.
  • Obesity.

What Are the Symptoms of Low Testosterone?

When the body does not produce enough testosterone, it affects not just sexual desire but also other bodily functions. Some common symptoms include:

  • Difficulty conceiving (caused by low sperm count).
  • Gynecomastia (increased breast tissue).
  • Hair loss, reduced muscle mass, and decreased bone density.
  • Chronic fatigue and lack of energy.
  • Erectile dysfunction.

Many of these symptoms can also be associated with other health conditions; therefore, it is essential to consult a doctor to rule out other causes and evaluate the need for further tests.

Can Low Testosterone Be Treated?

Keep in mind that the decrease in testosterone levels with age is part of the normal aging process. However, there are strategies to increase testosterone at any age, improving both quality of life and overall well-being. Let's look at the main approaches.

Lifestyle Changes

Adopting a healthy lifestyle is the first and most important step to maintaining or increasing testosterone levels. Your doctor may recommend some key changes such as:

  • Increasing physical activity in your daily routine.
  • Improving sleep quality.
  • Losing weight.
  • Reducing or eliminating alcohol, sugary drinks, refined sugar-rich foods, and junk food.
  • Following a balanced diet rich in lean proteins, eggs, fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes.
  • Quitting smoking.

These changes not only help improve testosterone levels but also promote cardiovascular health, increase energy, and enhance overall mood.

Hormone Replacement Therapy with Testosterone

If testosterone levels are significantly low, a doctor may recommend hormone replacement therapy. Before starting any treatment, it is crucial to perform a blood test to determine testosterone levels. Testosterone therapy is particularly indicated in specific cases, such as injured or removed testes due to surgery, for example, due to cancer. The therapy can be administered in various forms:

  • Skin patches.
  • Creams or gels.
  • Injections.
  • Oral tablets.

It is important to note that in cases of age-related testosterone decline, therapy may not be recommended, as the potential side effects can outweigh the benefits. The doctor will carefully evaluate your case and decide if therapy is the best solution.

Side Effects of Hormone Replacement Therapy with Testosterone

While testosterone therapy can lead to significant improvements, it is important to be aware of potential side effects, which may include:

  • Acceleration of existing prostate cancer growth.
  • Acne.
  • Male breast growth (gynecomastia).
  • Benign prostatic hyperplasia (enlargement of the prostate).
  • Heart problems.
  • Sleep disorders.
  • Shrinking of the testes.
  • Reduced sperm production.

For these reasons, therapy must always be monitored by a specialist. Self-administration or use of non-prescribed products can be dangerous and lead to serious complications. Always consult a doctor for a personalized assessment and ongoing monitoring before starting any treatment.

If you suspect you have low testosterone, do not ignore the symptoms. A simple blood test can provide clarity, allowing you to address the issue promptly and improve your quality of life.

Learn more about the Urology and Andrology services at UPMC Salvator Mundi International Hospital or book one of our #Movember packages.