The Lowdown on Low T: Understanding and Overcoming the Challenges
A man’s world is influenced, to a surprising degree, by testosterone. Testosterone is a hormone that is produced in the testicles and is responsible for the development of male characteristics, such as muscle mass, deep voice, and body hair. Low levels of testosterone can lead to a range of symptoms and health problems that can negatively affect a man's quality of life.
Fortunately, Dr. Stephanie Opusunju, a skilled internist at Elam Haalth and Wellness, has solutions and has put together this informative guide to help you better understand low testosterone and the treatment options available.
Symptoms of Low Testosterone
The symptoms of low testosterone can vary from person to person, but some common ones include:
- Low sex drive: Testosterone is essential for maintaining a healthy sex drive in men. Low levels of testosterone can lead to a decreased interest in sex and a reduction in the frequency of sexual thoughts and activities.
- Erectile dysfunction: Testosterone is necessary for the development of strong erections. Low levels of testosterone can make it difficult to achieve or maintain an erection.
- Fatigue and decreased energy levels: Low testosterone can make you feel tired and sluggish, reducing your overall energy levels and making it harder to stay active and engage in physical activity.
- Depression and irritability: Low testosterone levels can lead to mood changes, including feelings of sadness, irritability, and anxiety.
- Muscle loss and weakness: Testosterone is important for building and maintaining muscle mass. Low levels of testosterone can lead to muscle loss and weakness, making it harder to engage in physical activity and maintain overall health.
- Decreased bone density: Testosterone helps to maintain strong bones. Low levels of testosterone can lead to a reduction in bone density, increasing the risk of osteoporosis and fractures.
Causes of Low Testosterone
There are several factors that can contribute to low testosterone levels in men, including:
- Aging: As men age, their testosterone levels naturally decrease, which can lead to symptoms of low testosterone.
- Chronic illnesses: Chronic diseases, such as diabetes, heart disease, testicular cancer, infections, and genetic disorders can affect testosterone production and lead to low levels of the hormone.
- Obesity: Excess body fat can lead to a reduction in testosterone levels.
- Certain medications: Certain medications, such as glucocorticoids and opioids, can interfere with testosterone production and lead to low levels of the hormone.
- Testicular injury or damage: Injury to the testicles or damage to the testicles from surgery or radiation can affect testosterone production and lead to low levels of the hormone.
Because there are so many potential causes of low testosterone, you should seek medical help from trained experts like Dr. Stephanie Opusunju at Elam Health and Wellness.
Treatment Options
The type of treatment for your low testosterone depends on your specific symptoms and your testosterone levels.
For men with borderline low testosterone, simple lifestyle changes may be enough to effect positive change. For example, eating a balanced diet and getting enough sleep, stress management, shedding excess weight and becoming physically more active.
Some men benefit from targeted treatments that address specific symptoms, like help for erectile dysfunction or medication to improve sleep.
Other men benefit from receiving testosterone hormone replacement in the form of injections, patches, or applying testosterone gels.
Pellet testosterone therapy is another option in which testosterone pellets ar einserted under your skin, where they are absorbed over several months.
Low testosterone levels can lead to a range of symptoms and health problems. However, there are several effective treatment options available, including testosterone replacement therapy, weight loss, exercise, stress management, and healthy lifestyle changes.
If you are experiencing symptoms of low testosterone, contact our team at Elam Health and Welllness in Dallas, Texas to schedule an appointment or to learn more about solutions for your low testosterone. We also offer telemedicine appointments so you can meet with Dr. Stephanie Opusunju from the safety of your home.