Testosterone deficiency - Vital Hormone Clinic

What is testosterone deficiency?

Testosterone deficiency, also known as low testosterone (low T) or hypogonadism, is a condition where the body doesn't produce enough of the hormone testosterone. Testosterone is an essential hormone that plays a key role in male sexual and reproductive health as well as maintaining muscle mass, bone density, red blood cell production, and a general sense of well-being.

Some key signs and symptoms of low testosterone include:

• Decreased sex drive - Low libido or erectile dysfunction
• Loss of muscle mass - Weakness, fatigue, loss of strength
• Weight gain - Increase in body fat, especially around the waist
• Mood changes - Irritability, depression, lack of focus
• Loss of body hair - Reduced facial, chest, and body hair

Causes of low testosterone can include:

• A problem with the testes - Injury, infection, surgery or congenital defects
• Pituitary gland disorders - Tumors, medications or other disorders
• Hypothalamus disorders - Damage, tumors, medications
• Inflammatory diseases - HIV/AIDS, rheumatoid arthritis, liver or kidney disease
• Obesity
• Type 2 diabetes
• Natural aging - Testosterone levels peak in the late teens to early 20s then slowly decline
• Medications - Opioids, steroids, chemotherapy

Diagnosis involves a physical exam and blood tests to check total and free testosterone levels. Levels below 300 ng/dL generally indicate low T.

Treatment options may include:

• Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) - Testosterone pills, patches, gels, injections
• Lifestyle changes - Weight loss, exercise, improved diet, stress reduction
• Fertility medications if low T is causing infertility

If left untreated, low testosterone can lead to more serious health issues like osteoporosis, anemia, cardiovascular disease, and decreased quality of life. Catching and treating it early is important.

The hormone experts at Vital Hormone Clinic can help diagnose the cause of low T and create a customized treatment plan involving TRT, nutrition planning, and lifestyle changes. Our goal is helping you restore strength, vitality, and confidence. Contact us today to schedule a consultation with one of our hormone specialists. We look forward to working with you!