Symptoms of Testosterone Deficiency:
When a man does not have enough testosterone in his body it is called hypogonadism, or low-T. Levels of the hormone normally decrease with age. About 4 out of 10 men over the age of 45 have low testosterone. It is seen in about 2 out of 10 men over 60, 3 out of 10 men over 70, and 3 out of 10 men over 80 years old. Men with certain health problems, including diabetes and obesity, also tend to also have low testosterone.
You may have low-T if you have the following: low sex drive, fewer and weaker erections, less energy, less muscle mass and strength, depressed mood or irritability, more body fat. If you think you may have low-T, it is important to see a doctor. Many of the symptoms for low-T can be the result of other health problems. For example, decreased energy and depressed mood may be caused by a variety of different health conditions and not of low-T. Diagnosis of low-T begins with a review of your medical history, a physical exam and blood work to measure your testosterone levels.
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How to diagnose testosterone dificiency:
Diagnosing testosterone deficiency involves an assessment of clinical symptoms such as decreased libido, erectile dysfunction, fatigue, loss of muscle mass, increased body fat, and mood disturbances. Following symptom evaluation, a physical examination may be done. The cornerstone of diagnosis is however blood testing, ideally performed in the morning when testosterone levels peak, to measure total testosterone. If results are inconclusive or borderline, further tests might assess free or bioavailable testosterone, which can be more indicative of true deficiency in some cases. To pinpoint the cause, additional endocrine blood test may be performed. Your physician will order and interpret the laboratory workup to diagnose testosterone deficiency.
How to treat testoterone deficiency:
Treatment for testosterone deficiency involves several approaches aimed at restoring testosterone levels and alleviating symptoms. Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT) is the primary treatment, available in various forms:
- Transdermal Gels: Applied daily to the skin, typically on the shoulders, upper arms, or abdomen. They provide a steady release of testosterone throughout the day. Examples include AndroGel, Testim, and Fortesta.
- Transdermal Patches: Similar to nicotine patches, these are applied once daily to the skin (often on the arm or back). They release testosterone slowly over 24 hours. Androderm is a common brand.
- Injections: Testosterone can be injected into the muscle (intramuscular), usually every 2 to 4 weeks, though newer formulations might allow for less frequent dosing. Common forms include testosterone cypionate (Depo-Testosterone) and testosterone enanthate.
Before starting Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT), it’s essential to have a thorough assessment with your doctor about your medical history to identify any contraindications for TRT and to understand the potential side effects. This ensures you can give informed consent for the treatment.
Considerations about medications:
Testosterone transdermal gel offers several advantages over testosterone injections, primarily in its ability to maintain steady hormone levels, mimicking the body’s natural daily testosterone secretion, thus avoiding the peak-and-trough effect associated with injections which can lead to fluctuations in mood, energy, and libido. The gel is easier to apply, involving a simple daily routine akin to using lotion, which eliminates the need for needles, reducing anxiety for those with needle phobia and lowering the risk of injection site reactions or infections. Additionally, transdermal application might present a lower risk of polycythemia, a condition where there’s an increase in red blood cell count, which is a potential side effect of testosterone therapy. However, users must be cautious about the potential for skin-to-skin transfer of testosterone to others if the gel isn’t fully absorbed, and some might experience skin irritation at the application site. Despite these considerations, the convenience, consistency in hormone levels, and reduced invasiveness make transdermal gels an appealing option for many seeking testosterone replacement therapy.
How long will I be on testosterone replacement?
The duration of testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) varies based on individual medical conditions, symptoms, and treatment goals. Typically, TRT is considered a long-term or even lifelong commitment for those diagnosed with testosterone deficiency. This is because stopping TRT usually leads to the return of low testosterone symptoms, as the external supply of testosterone suppresses natural production. However, if low testosterone is due to temporary or reversible causes, like obesity or certain medications, addressing these underlying issues might allow for the cessation of TRT after some time, under medical supervision. Always consult with your doctor to tailor the duration and management of TRT according to personal health developments and treatment response.
Are there any lifestyle modifications or supplements that can help testoerone deficiency?
While testosterone supplementation remains the hallmark of treating testosterone deficiency, there are several lifestyle modifications and supplements that can potentially help with testosterone deficiency. Engaging in regular physical activity, particularly resistance and high-intensity interval training, has been shown to boost testosterone levels. Maintaining a healthy weight is crucial, as obesity is linked with lower testosterone levels; thus, weight loss can lead to improvements. Dietary changes are also beneficial; incorporating adequate zinc, vitamin D, and omega-3 fatty acids can support testosterone production. Sleep quality and duration play a significant role. For supplements, zinc, vitamin D, boron, and herbs like Tongkat Ali and Fadogia Agrestis have been cited their potential to aid. Furthermore, reducing alcohol consumption and managing stress effectively are also recommended. Always consult with your doctor before starting any new supplement regimen, especially to tailor the approach to individual health needs and to avoid potential interactions with other medications or conditions.