Testosterone deficiency, also known as hypotestosteronemia or low T, is a condition where the body does not produce enough of the hormone testosterone. Testosterone is crucial for many bodily functions in men including:
- Sex drive and erectile function
- Muscle mass and strength
- Bone density
- Fat distribution
- Mood and energy levels
Some common signs and symptoms of low testosterone include:
- Low libido or erectile dysfunction
- Loss of muscle mass and feeling weak
- Weight gain and increase in body fat
- Low energy, fatigue, irritability or depression
- Loss of facial, body, or pubic hair
- Hot flashes or sweats
What causes low testosterone?
There are several potential causes including:
- Damage or injury to the testicles
- Genetic conditions like Klinefelter syndrome
- Pituitary gland conditions
- Autoimmune diseases
- Obesity
- Diabetes
- Liver or kidney disease
- Infection or HIV
- Chemotherapy or radiation treatments
- Excessive alcohol use
- Aging (a natural decline with age)
How is low T diagnosed?
If you have symptoms of low testosterone, see your doctor to get a diagnosis. They will perform a physical exam and order blood tests to check your total testosterone, free testosterone, and other hormone levels.
Two blood samples on different days are usually required, as testosterone levels can fluctuate. If both tests show low levels, then a diagnosis of hypotestosteronemia can be made.
Treatments for testosterone deficiency
If low T is confirmed, treatments aim to restore normal testosterone levels. Options may include:
- Testosterone replacement therapy - Taking supplements of testosterone medication by injection, patch, gel or tablet. This treatment requires regular monitoring.
- Lifestyle changes - Losing weight, exercise, diet, sleep and stress management may help boost natural testosterone.
- Treating underlying health conditions - Managing illnesses causing low testosterone could improve levels.
The specialists at
Vitality Hormone Clinic offer personalized testosterone therapy programs for men. Their holistic approach evaluates your health, symptoms and labs to determine the optimal custom treatment plan. Contact Vitality Hormone Clinic today for a consultation.
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