Testosterone is the hormone that is responsible for male characteristics, such as facial hair and deep voice. It also helps build muscle mass.
It is normal for a man’s testosterone levels to drop as he gets older. In fact, a man’s testosterone level steadily declines after the age of 30.
What Causes Low T?
In addition to the natural aging process, there are a number of things that can cause low T. Men who have certain medical conditions, such as cancer, HIV/AIDS and type 2 diabetes are at a greater risk for developing low T. Certain medications can also cause low T.
What Are Some of the Signs of Low Testosterone?
There are several signs that a man may experience if he has low testosterone. Because testosterone controls sex drive, a man with low T may experience a decrease in sex drive. Erectile dysfunction is another common sign of low T.
Testosterone plays a role in sperm production. The higher a man’s testosterone levels are, the more sperm he will produce. Men who have low T may experience low sperm volume.
Loss of muscle mass is another sign that a man has low T. Many people think that they can reverse this muscle mass through weight training. However, testosterone is necessary for building muscle. That is why a man may have trouble building muscle even if he lifts weight if his testosterone level is low.
Furthermore, it is important to note that low T can result in serious health problems. This condition can cause a decrease in bone mass, which can lead to osteoporosis. Men with low T are also more likely to experience depression.
Testosterone Replacement Therapy
Testosterone replacement therapy is often recommended for men who have low T. There are several options that are available for testosterone replacement therapy. Men can get testosterone injections are typically given every few weeks. Men can also get a testosterone patch or gel.
Additionally, men can get implantable testosterone pellets. They are designed to release testosterone over the course of three or four months. There are risks and benefits of testosterone replacement therapy. The benefits of this treatment will probably outweigh the benefits for most men. If you are interested in getting testosterone replacement therapy, then you will need to consult with your physician. Only a physician can determine whether this treatment is right for you.