Testosterone is a hormone made in the testicles of males. It is responsible for helping boys develop those classic male features of hair, deeper voice, and muscle strength. Testosterone hormone levels decrease with age, but some men have low enough levels where they become deficient. While decreases in these levels are normal, the symptoms common to Low T are not. There are treatment options that can help. It’s the new year, so why not get your testosterone levels back on track too?
Symptoms of Low T
Around 2 out of 10 men over the age of 60 have low testosterone levels. Low T is diagnosed in a serum blood test when levels fall below 300 nanograms per deciliter (ng/dL). Symptoms experienced can vary by each individual and are often attributed to age. These include:
- Low sex drive
- Fatigue
- Reduction in lean muscle mass
- Irritability
- Erectile dysfunction
- Depression
Don’t Wait
Other conditions share symptoms with low testosterone levels, so it’s always a good idea to have your doctor check if you recognize any of the symptoms. Opioid use, some congenital conditions, loss of or harm to the testicles, diabetes, and being overweight are examples. Diabetes and obesity are also risk factors for developing Low T. 30% of overweight men have a testosterone deficiency and approximately 24.5% of male diabetics.
Low T treatment involves testosterone therapy (TT), and most see a relief of symptoms reasonably quickly. TT comes in various ways to take it, such as through the skin, injection, mouth, nose, and pellets under the skin. No method is better than the other, and it comes down to preference. Not everyone with Low T requires treatment, so working with your doctor can identify the right path for you.
Do it For Yourself. Do it for Them.
Low testosterone is nothing to be ashamed of. Though we covered the most common symptoms, this condition can also cause hair loss and loss in bone mass, making you more susceptible to fractures later in life. If your Low T is interfering with your life, clinical research studies may be an option worth looking into.
Endeavor Clinical Trials is needing participants to join upcoming Low T studies looking into potential new options. Qualified participants receive study-related care from our expert team, possible access to potential new therapies not available to the public, and reimbursement for time and travel. To learn more, visit our website, or call (210) 949-0807.
References:
https://www.healthline.com/health/low-testosterone/warning-signs#bone-mass
https://www.urologyhealth.org/urology-a-z/l/low-testosterone
