Last Updated on June 22, 2022
INTRODUCTION
Low Testosterone (Low T), also called Hypogonadism, is a condition in which the testes produce insufficient testosterone (a male sex hormone).
This Testosterone hormone has various functions, including:
- Development of bones and muscles,
- Changes in one’s voice, hair growth, and other physical characteristics,
- Sperm production,
- Sexual and reproductive function,
- Sense of well-being.
The production of the male sex hormone slows as people age. Many men with low T levels are asymptomatic, while others experience a partial, and gradual depletion in testosterone levels, which is manifest by a range of clinical symptoms. Here’s what you need to know if you’ve been diagnose with Low T or are experiencing its symptoms.
UNDERSTANDING LOW T
According to the American Urological Association (AUA), low testosterone is defined as fewer than 300 nanograms (ng) of the hormone per deciliter (dl) in blood. According to the AUA, 2 out of every 100 men have Hypogonadism.
Low T can be cause by a variety of factors, including the following:
- Pituitary gland dysfunction or malignancies,
- Medications, such as painkillers, steroids (such as prednisone), & hormones for prostate cancer treatment,
- Illness that is acute (short-term) or chronic (long-term),
- Alcohol Abuse,
- HIV or AIDS,
- Obesity,
- Sudden weight loss,
- Ageing,
- Chemotherapy for cancer.
LOW T’s EFFECT ON THE BODY
Low T can have a significant impact on the body. Testosterone is a vital male sex hormone that has a significant impact on a man’s overall health. It serves as a source of energy, feeds your muscles, impacts your physical appearance, and influences your sexual urge. Low T levels over long periods of time can affect overall health and wellness, with long-term consequences if left untreated.
Following are the symptoms of Low T in men :
- Extremely low sex drive,
- Erectile dysfunction (ED),
- A decrease in one’s feeling of well-being,
- Depression,
- Memory and concentration problems,
- Loss of physical strength,
- Insomnia,
- Fatigue,
- Mild Anaemia,
- Irritability and moodiness.
LOW T CAN AFFECT YOUR MOOD
Several medical conditions such as stroke, cancer, diabetes, heart disease, and Parkinson’s disease are associate with increase risk for depression. Because as a male sex hormone, testosterone is known to operate through androgen receptors in the brain and can alter the serotonin and dopamine pathways, there is biological plausibility for testosterone’s effects on mood and depression.
Recent studies have examined a genetic component that may put some men at higher risk of depressed mood with decreasing testosterone levels, especially as they age. Although a direct relationship is complex to establish between T levels and mood, there is overwhelming evidence that suggests men with low T levels are more prone to mood swings, irritability, and erectile dysfunction.
Furthermore, because low T level symptoms can be emotionally distressing, males may find themselves on a downward spiral that leads to depression. Low T levels cause low energy hence lack of physical activity leads to weight gain, feeling less desired, and so on.
FEELING THE BLUES OR IS IT JUST LOW T?
Due to the similarity of symptoms for low T & depression, diagnosis can be a bit difficult. Depression, trouble thinking, and anxiety are all common indicators of aging, which adds to the confusion.
Low T and depression, does have distinct symptoms disimilar from one another. Breast enlargement and reduced muscle mass and strength are not common in people with depression who have normal male sex hormone levels.
Headaches and back pain are two of the most common physical signs of depression. A physical examination and blood tests can indicate if your testosterone levels are normal or if you have an androgen deficit.
TESTOSTERONE REPLACEMENT THERAPY CAN DO WONDERS FOR YOUR MOOD
The advantages of testosterone treatment for significantly hypogonadal men have long been known. TRT (Testosterone Replacement Treatment) may certainly improve one’s sexual life. Starting testosterone treatment is among the most efficient ways for men to overcome sexual problems.
Moreover, testosterone therapy also can improve a man’s health beyond the bedroom, bringing testosterone levels to normal. TRT is one of those good and highly recommended decisions for every person with Low T who ultimately just wants to feel better.
Hypogonadism can be address by employing testosterone replacement therapy to restore testosterone (male sex hormone) levels to normal. Most importantly, they help with the physiological and qualitative aspects of one’s life by:
- Improving sexual desire and function,
- Increasing bone mineral density,
- Improving mood,
- Increasing energy levels and overall quality of life,
- Improving muscle mass and strength through modifying body composition,
- Improving cognitive function.
Testosterone replacement (TRT) was linked to enhanced mood and well-being, as well as less tiredness and irritation in hypogonadal males. A number of testosterone formulations have been shown to enhance the quality of life measures such as overall well-being and fatigue.
There is a strong proven link between T levels and cognitive abilities including spatial ability and quantitative skills. Higher free testosterone levels have been linked to improved performance in several elements of memory and cognitive function, with optimal processing ability being observed in males aged 35 to 90.
Testosterone replacement can be effective in reversing age-dependent body composition changes and associated morbidity. Testosterone administration improves body composition, decreases fat mass, and increases lean body mass.
Although the later benefits are not a direct determinant of a “good mood” nevertheless, imagine being physically active, mentally sharp, and less irritable for sure the result will be a wonderful mood.
THE OUTLOOK
A harmonious life is a combination of several factors that affects your physical and mental health. With the ever-increasing challenges of modern life the importance of a healthy sexual life, a balanced mood, and a healthy body are all just as important. And several steps can be taken to bring about this positive change. These include developing healthy habits, regular self-reflection, meaningful communication with your partner, stress management, and Testosterone replacement therapy.
With an easy diagnosis and multiple delivery options available for low T, it is definitely the right way for men experiencing the symptoms to adopt TRT. Once your testosterone level (male sex hormone) start to climb, several emotional and sexual problems will gradually start to reduce. Overall results achieved can be moderate to drastic depending on the individual response to the therapy. Options for TRT include:
- Skin Patch (transdermal)
- Gels
- Mouth Patch
- Injection and Implants
- Low T Clinical Trials near you that provide novel treatment options.
