Low Testosterone Treatment in the Central Coast of California
What is Testosterone?
Testosterone is a male sex hormone that plays a major role in their sexual development and fertility. Varying levels of testosterone within a man’s body will affect many bodily functions, including:
- The production of both body and facial hair
- Muscle strength
- Sexual drive
Causes of Low Testosterone
It is completely natural for testosterone levels to decrease with age, leaving approximately half of men over the age of 80 with low testosterone (Low-T). Other common factors that lead to Low-T include:
- Obesity
- Side effects of certain medications
- Metabolic syndrome
- Injury or infection of the testes
- A congenital condition
- Side effects of chemotherapy or radiation treatments
- Issues with the pituitary gland
- An existing autoimmune disease
- A prior diagnosis of HIV or AIDS
Typical Symptoms of Low-T
We have already discussed how testosterone levels contribute greatly toward a man’s sexual health, which is why it makes sense that low testosterone levels would result in impaired sexual function.
In addition to a decrease in sexual desire and problems with erectile dysfunction, individuals with Low-T will also often experience:
- Loss of body or facial hair
- Constant fatigue
- Decreased amounts of lean muscle mass
- Signs of depression
- Weight gain
- Difficulty in articulating their speech
Treatments for Low Testosterone
There are a wide variety of potential solutions to a person’s low testosterone. Depending upon the particular patient and their case, natural options such as supplements or a new diet plan may be sufficient in boosting these hormone levels.
Some form of hormone replacement therapy is another popular option when it comes to treating Low-T. These may be in the form of an oral/intranasal medication, injection, or as hormone pellets. Different patients will have different techniques for testosterone administration based on their personal preferences and lifestyle.
The best way to begin treatment for low testosterone is to see a specialist, and to discuss your options with them. Contact Urology Associates of the Central Coast today!
