The Risks and Tests Associated with Low Testosterone
Low Testosterone (Male Hypogonadism, also known as Male Hypo-androgenism) is a medical condition in which the male reproductive organs, specifically the testes (male reproductive organs), do not release enough testosterone (a male sexual hormone). Men, especially men who are older, have a less-than-normal activity of the testes, which may be caused by a number of factors including aging, disease or a chronic illness. Testosterone is vital to a man’s fertility. In men, testosterone naturally helps build:
Sperm production in the scrotum, testicles and seminal vesicles is dependent on the proper functioning of the Leydig Cells (Locytes), which are germ cells that produce the sperm. When testicles are under condition of reduced testosterone, there is a decreased ability of the Locytes to produce the mature sperm. Because the sperm are unable to reach the egg, they do not fertilize it. Low Testosterone can also cause the formation of some abnormal cells called Androgermii, which form the base of the male reproductive system.
There are different classifications of symptoms associated with Low Testosterone. Some include erectile dysfunction, decreased libido, and infertility. Erectile dysfunction is commonly associated with low testosterone; because the male reproductive system requires the presence of this hormone for successful erection, a person who has Low Testosterone usually cannot achieve or maintain an erection long enough to have successful sexual intercourse. In addition, many Low Testosterone males experience problems maintaining an erection because the nerve impulses controlling erection also slow down or stop completely.
In addition, low testosterone levels often result to low levels of sperm count or abnormal formation of the reproductive organs. Since testosterone is primarily produced by the Leydig Cells in the brain and the testicles, low levels of this hormone can affect the production and function of these organs. For example, sperm count can be affected when the Leydig Cells does not develop properly. In addition, some of the normal functions of the reproductive system are impaired when low levels of testosterone are present in the body. These include development of the prostate, production of the female uterus, and the secreting of eggs from the ovary.
Low testosterone levels are associated with increased risks of various diseases including osteoporosis, hypertension, depression, anxiety, and diabetes. Low levels of testosterone can also contribute to the increased occurrence of cardiovascular disease as well as high blood pressure. Low levels of testosterone have also been linked to the increase in the risk of prostate cancer. As men get older, the possibility of having Low Testosterone increases. A study conducted by Murthyathurthi S, Yash Chopra, Dhananjay G, Shourarish B, Prabhupada S, Sudhanshu J, and Subodh Gupta revealed that the decrease in the Testosterone level was associated with an increased risk of type 2 diabetes in men.
The decrease in testosterone production can result in various other problems as well. The most common of these is reduced sexual libido. Reduced sexual desire has long-term repercussions and can cause men to lose their self-confidence and relationship status. Moreover, reduced testosterone levels can lead to bone loss, which can result in weak bones, joint pain, and a decrease in flexibility. Reduced testosterone production can also cause weight gain because the body does not have enough energy to expend in movement and exercise. However, treatment for low testosterone levels can reduce the severity of these symptoms and can improve quality of life.
If you suffer from low testosterone, it can affect your sexual drive and energy level. The lower the levels are, the less energy you have, and the less libido you experience. It’s important that you treat this condition because of its negative effects. Many men don’t realize how poor the quality of their erections are until they start asking their doctor about testosterone supplements for treatment. Here are some common questions you should be asking your doctor when seeking medical treatment for low testosterone and testosterone therapy.
How does low testosterone help increase fertility? In fact, studies have shown that low testosterone may help increase the quality and quantity of sperm produced by the male partner. It’s important that couples work together to find the best treatment plan for a problem that may be affecting one or both of them. Male fertility treatments may be prescribed by a fertility specialist, and they involve either intracytoplasmic or endometrial surgery. In some cases, fertility drugs such as flutamide may be prescribed.
How long does low testosterone last in the body? Normally, a low testosterone level will disappear within a few months after discontinuing the hormone. However, it’s possible for a man to have symptoms for up to six months before symptoms will dissipate. If symptoms last longer than six months, it’s possible that the hormone has become toxic in the blood. This can result in symptoms including: depression, anxiety, irritability, insomnia, muscular weakness, dry mouth, constipation, frequent urination, increased appetite, jaundice, hair loss, decreased sex drive, low bone density, increased risk of diabetes, and more.
How are symptoms of low testosterone production treated? Generally, a low testosterone level can be treated with prescription medications. These medications work to boost hormone production in the body back to the proper levels. Common prescriptions include testosterone-boosting injections, tablets, creams, gels, lotions, or vaginal creams. However, these medications can carry serious side effects, so they’re not recommended for everyone.
How are blood tests used to check for low testosterone levels? In order to determine whether or not there’s a problem with your testosterone levels, you’ll be required to undergo a blood test. The test measures levels of testosterone in urine or blood. A higher concentration of testosterone means that your testosterone levels are being blocked, causing an imbalance in your hormone levels.
Don’t worry if you think you might be experiencing symptoms of this condition. Discuss your symptoms with your doctor and see if he can recommend a treatment plan. If your doctor determines that your symptoms are caused by other factors, he may recommend other methods of treatment, such as natural remedies or prescription drugs. While doctors aren’t sure exactly what causes this disorder, they do know that it can easily be treated.
