Covering a range of functions including metabolism, mood, sexual maturity, digestion, and reproductive health, hormones work hard transmitting messages to cells throughout the body to make things work correctly. We have over 50 different types of hormones hard at work, all coming from organs, glands, and tissues in the endocrine system.
Testosterone, an essential hormone in reproductive health starting from puberty, is more commonly known than many others and is crucial for good health. Low testosterone levels can lead to various health risks and make your personal life more difficult. Let’s look at what causes low testosterone, what deficient levels of this hormone do to your body, and how we can manage the issues that come with that.
Dr. Craig Herman, Dr. Steven Kester, and the experienced team at Urology Center of Florida are here to help the residents of Fort Lauderdale, Pompano Beach, and South Florida with many medical needs, including low testosterone.
Also referred to as hypogonadism or Low T, low testosterone refers to abnormally low levels of the hormone in men diagnosed with less than 300 nanograms per deciliter of it in their system. In women, for whom the hormone also plays an important role in sexual development, the amount needed isn’t as straightforward, depending on a number of factors. Several things can cause low testosterone in anyone, including:
Testosterone regulates several functions, doing more than developing sex characteristics during puberty and managing sexual health. It also regulates and maintains bone density, red blood cells, and muscle mass and helps your mood, improving your sense of well-being.
Reduced levels of testosterone can lead to issues such as hot flashes, depression, problems with focus and concentration, weight gain, reduced endurance, and lower strength and muscle mass. Low enough levels also affect libido and cause erectile dysfunction, testicle shrinking, armpit and pubic hair loss, and male infertility.
Addressing this problem depends on the cause. Increasing hormone levels with hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can be successful in some cases. HRT treatment for hypogonadism is available in several forms, including gels, patches, shots, implants, and nasal applications. In other cases, managing the cause can help restore hormone production. If psychological issues are involved, counseling may be recommended.
Low testosterone affects a lot in your life, and if it’s causing issues in your love life, make an appointment today with our office in Pompano Beach, Florida. Call or message us to get help.
