By Ezra Julia
Low testosterone (Male hypogonadism, also known as male hypogonadathy) is a medical condition in which the male reproductive organs do not produce adequate testosterone (a male sex hormone). Men have a peak testosterone level between the ages of ten and forty. After that age, testosterone production slows down. This is why men start experiencing symptoms like decreased libido, erectile dysfunction, decrease in muscle mass, decrease in bone density and the other symptoms associated with ageing. This is also the reason why low Testosterone is considered as one of the most common causes of erectile dysfunction in men.
There are a number of causes for low testosterone levels. Infectious diseases, disease involving the pituitary gland such as Leydigaluna or Leydig Cells, certain medications and ageing are some of the causes for low testosterone levels. In men, low testosterone levels often occur due to accumulation of testicular fluid and other conditions such as infections and injury.
Infectious diseases such as the Herpes simplex virus, cytomegalovirus, herpes virus, Epstein-Barr virus, rotaviruses, mumps and measles, diabetes mellitus and hypothyroidism can cause or increase the risk for low testosterone production. Abnormal levels of certain hormones in the body can also result in hypogonadism. The condition may be caused by an increased level of body fats, excessive cholesterol and fluids retention, poor carbohydrate absorption and liver damage. Other factors that contribute to the development of hypogonadism include chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, sleep apnea, sexual dysfunction, and prostate cancer. A diet rich in protein and other amino acids can increase the testosterone levels in the body and normalize sex drive, mood and energy levels.
Most doctors recommend men take their daily nutritional supplements with a high concentration of L-testosterone at least once a day. Clinical trials have shown that these supplements can reverse aging signs such as wrinkles, facial lines and sagging skin. According to a study conducted by scientists in Japan, L-arginine is one of the nutrients that could help reverse aging effects including loss of muscle mass, decreased libido, decreased sex drive, decreased bone density and osteoporosis. This nutrient was found to be effective in a clinical trial of patients who suffered from symptoms such as diminished sex drive, decreased muscle mass, decreased libido and osteoporosis.
Some men experience difficulty in starting or maintaining an erection because of low testosterone levels. Others may not be able to maintain an erection because of the side effects of some medication. In these cases, doctors usually prescribe oral medications. However, there are also some natural treatments that a man can try to improve his sexual desire and performance. These natural remedies include ginseng, horsetail and saw palmetto extracts.
Consultation With a Doctor: If you are experiencing symptoms of low testosterone, you should first consult your doctor, as there are many ways to help increase sexual stamina in men through testosterone levels. The doctor may be able to recommend a prescription medication that will treat your condition. If your doctor does not have any suggestions on medication, you may consult with a nutritionist or a naturopath who can help you understand how testosterone replacement therapy works. These experts can advise you about any adverse effects that you may face during and after the treatment. They can also recommend the best supplements for treating your symptoms.
If you have low testosterone now, hormone replacement therapy can help. The medication used is synthetic testosterone. This therapy is commonly known as testosterone replacement therapy, orTRT. TRT is administered as a capsule, gel, patch, shot, or implant. Many men become uncomfortable with TRT because of its potential side effects. These can include:
Some of the more common side effects of TRT are decreased libido and erections that don’t last. Most of these symptoms are common with other medical conditions that cause low testosterone production such as hypothyroidism or hypoglycemia. Some symptoms are more common in older men who seek treatment for decreased testosterone production. Some of these symptoms include experiencing a decrease in muscle mass, experiencing fatigue and an increase in depression. There have been reports of sexual dysfunction and problems with erectile function in older men on TRT as well.
Signs and symptoms of low testosterone may cause you to seek treatment if your low testosterone symptoms occur primarily in your lower body, including your testicles, thighs, and hips. You may also have trouble starting and maintaining an erection, and your sex drive may be significantly decreased. Some of the signs and symptoms of low testosterone may cause you to be less willing to engage in sexual intercourse. In fact, some men experience impotence or inability to achieve orgasm.
A decrease in testosterone helps contribute to osteoporosis. Testosterone helps produce healthy, strong bones. As men get older, their testosterone helps maintain their bone mass. As their testosterone levels drop, however, they may notice a decrease in their bone mass. This can lead to fractures and other health complications.
Testosterone levels are affected by a number of factors, including age, genetics, and environment. Some medications can reduce levels of testosterone as well. When a man is diagnosed with low testosterone levels due to certain causes, he may be advised to take supplements to help reverse the effects of the condition on his body. Men who are on TRT for cancer or disease that has caused decreased levels of testosterone may also be given testosterone injections or testosterone cream to help reverse the disease. In some cases, testosterone may even be prescribed as part of treatment for some diseases.
If you’ve noticed some of the signs and symptoms of aging, such as weak memory and decreased sexual desire, you should talk to your doctor about potential treatments. Testosterone replacement therapy can help many men improve their quality of life. Although testosterone therapy has helped treat many of the symptoms of aging, it is not a cure. It can only help to slow the effects of aging on your body.
