Testosterone Deficiency

Overview

Testosterone deficiency, also known as hypogonadism, is a condition in which the body does not produce enough testosterone, the male sex hormone. Testosterone is important for the development of male sexual characteristics, as well as for muscle mass, bone density, and red blood cell production. Properly-supervised measures, such as hormone replacement therapy, can help you feel like yourself again.

Symptoms

• Reduced sex drive: Low testosterone levels can decrease a man’s interest in sex and make it difficult to achieve and maintain an erection.

• Fatigue: Men with low testosterone levels may feel tired and lack energy.

• Decreased muscle mass: Testosterone helps to build and maintain muscle mass, so a deficiency can result in a decrease in muscle size and strength.

• Increased body fat: Men with low testosterone levels may develop more body fat, especially around the abdomen.

• Decreased bone density: Testosterone is important for bone health, so a deficiency can increase the risk of osteoporosis and fractures.

• Mood changes: Low testosterone levels can cause mood swings, irritability, and depression.

• Hot flashes: Some men may experience hot flashes, similar to those experienced by women during menopause.

Causes

• Aging: Testosterone levels naturally decline with age, starting in the late 20s or early 30s.

• Injury or infection: Injury or infection to the testicles can damage the cells that produce testosterone.

• Cancer treatment: Radiation therapy or chemotherapy used to treat cancer can damage the cells that produce testosterone.

• Certain medications: Some medications, such as opioids, can lower testosterone levels. • Chronic illness: Conditions such as kidney disease, liver disease, and HIV/AIDS can affect testosterone production.

• Obesity: Excess body fat can increase estrogen levels, which can lower testosterone levels.

• Genetic disorders: Certain genetic disorders, such as Klinefelter syndrome, can cause low testosterone levels.

• Pituitary gland disorders: The pituitary gland produces hormones that stimulate testosterone production. Disorders that affect the pituitary gland can lead to low testosterone levels.

Testosterone Deficiency Care at Integrative Urology

Treatments & Procedures for Testosterone Deficiency

Treatments & Procedures

A simple blood test can determine if a man has low testosterone levels. If testosterone deficiency is diagnosed, treatment options may include testosterone replacement therapy or other medications to address underlying causes.

Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT)

This involves administering testosterone to the body through injections, patches, gels, or pellets. TRT can restore testosterone levels to normal and relieve symptoms.

Lifestyle Changes

Eating a healthy diet, maintaining a healthy weight, and exercising regularly can help to improve testosterone levels.

Treatment of Underlying Conditions

If testosterone deficiency is caused by an underlying medical condition, such as kidney disease or obesity, treating the condition may help to improve testosterone levels.

Medications

Certain medications, such as aromatase inhibitors or gonadotropins, may be used to treat testosterone deficiency.

Testosterone Deficiency Care at Integrative Urology

Symptoms & Causes for Testosterone Deficiency

Testosterone Deficiency

Overview

Symptoms

Causes

Testosterone Deficiency Care at Integrative Urology

Treatments & Procedures

Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT)

Lifestyle Changes

Treatment of Underlying Conditions

Medications

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