LOW T
What is Testosterone (Low-T)?
Testosterone is a hormone made by your body and is responsible for the normal growth and development of the male sex organs and for maintenance of other sexual characteristics. In men, testosterone is produced in the testes, the reproductive glands that also produce sperm. Some effects of testosterone may include:
- Growth and maturation of prostate, and other male sex organs
- Development of male hair distribution such as facial hair
- Changes in body muscle mass and strength and fat distribution
- Sex drive and sexual function
- Mood and energy level
- Bone strength
Normal Levels of Testosterone
In healthy men, testosterone levels (also known as T levels) between 300 ng/dL and 1000 ng/dL are considered normal.
What is Low Testosterone (Low-T)?
Typically, a man’s testosterone level is considered low if it’s below a level of around 300 ng/dL. Low Testosterone can be caused by a signaling problem that occurs between the brain and the testes that causes the production of testosterone to drop below normal. Low Testosterone can also occur when your body can’t make normal levels of testosterone. Low Testosterone can lead to a medical condition known as hypogonadism, which has many symptoms including fatigue, decreased energy, abnormal increase in stored fat, reduced muscularity, low sexual desire, depressed mood, and difficult managing weight.
It is estimated that Low Testosterone affects more than 17 million men in the U.S. Common symptoms include reduced sex drive, decreased energy, loss of muscle, increased belly fat, and depressed mood. There is no cure for hypogonadism. It is a medical condition that usually requires ongoing treatment.
The good news is that it can be diagnosed by your doctor based on a medical history and exam, your signs and symptoms, and certain blood tests.
SYMPTOMS OF LOW TESTOSTERONE
Signs and symptoms of Low Testosterone may include:
- Fatigue or decreased energy
- Reduced sex drive (libido)
- Sexual dysfunction (weak erections, fewer erections)
- Depressed mood
- Increased body fat
- Reduced muscle mass and strength
- Decreased bone strength
- Loss of body hair (less frequent shaving)
- Hot flashes, sweats
These symptoms may be a sign of Low Testosterone or other health conditions and should not be ignored.
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