Low testosterone (Low T) is a prevalent disorder among men of any age, especially those in old age. Testosterone is crucial for the amount of energy, muscle mass, mood, sexual health, and overall well-being. In situations when levels drop, the consequences may be physical and psychological.
The first step in the proper diagnosis and safe and medically supervised treatment of low testosterone is understanding the underlying cause of the condition.
Common Causes of Low Testosterone in Men
The low testosterone levels are not a consequence of one factor. It occurs in most situations as a result of a mix of age alterations, lifestyle factors, and medical disorders.
1. Aging-Anabolic Testosterone Decrease.
The levels of testosterone in a normal male are on the decline as the male grows, but this decline normally starts after the age of 30. The average level of decline can be about 1 percent per annum. Although this decrease is normal, there are men who undergo a greater decrease, which causes the manifestation of symptoms.
This is one of the most prevalent causes of low testosterone due to age.
2. Perennial Stress and High Cortisol.
Prolonged stress leads to the production of cortisol, which directly decreases testosterone. Men who are under continuous mental or emotional stress can observe a lack of energy, insomnia, mood swings, and hormonal disorders.
The issue of testosterone suppression due to stress is usually not taken seriously and has a significant contribution to the contemporary lifestyle.
3. Sleep Abnormalities.
It is during deep sleep that most of the testosterone is produced. Sleep disorders like insomnia or sleep apnea, or abnormal sleep patterns can substantially decrease the production of hormones.
Men who regularly sleep less than 6 hours daily usually have a lower level of testosterone than those with normal sleeping habits.
4. Inequitable Nutrition and Deficiencies.
Processed food, refined sugar, and unhealthy fats may be harmful in the production of hormones. Some of the nutrients that are important in the synthesis of testosterone include zinc, vitamin D, magnesium, and healthy fats.
Inefficient nutrition in the long run may help lead to hormonal imbalance and lower testosterone production.
5. Obesity and Excess Body Fat
Fat on the body, especially in the abdominal area, enhances the production of estrogen and lowers the levels of free testosterone. The enzymes found in fat tissue aid the transformation of testosterone to estrogen, which further adds to the imbalance.
Low testosterone and weight gain usually feed off of one another, resulting in a vicious cycle that has to be addressed medically.
6. Lack of Physical Activity
Low testosterone has a close association with sedentary lifestyles. Outsourcing regular resistance training and exercises can encourage an increase in testosterone, whereas a sedentary lifestyle can inhibit it.
Regularly practiced strength training among men usually helps them to ensure their testosterone levels remain healthy as compared to those who do not exercise.
7. Medical Conditions and Chronic Illness
Several medical conditions can interfere with testosterone production, including:
- Type 2 diabetes
- Metabolic syndrome
- Thyroid disorders
- Pituitary gland dysfunction
- Testicular injury or disease
Chronic illnesses place stress on the endocrine system, often resulting in reduced hormone output.
8. Certain Medications and Treatments
Some prescription medications may lower testosterone levels, including:
- Long-term opioid use
- Corticosteroids
- Certain antidepressants
- Chemotherapy or radiation therapy
Men taking these medications should have hormone levels monitored by a licensed healthcare provider.
9. Alcohol and Substance Use
Overindulgence in alcohol and recreational drugs might harm cells that produce the hormones and disrupt the endocrine system. Chronic use can lead to permanent testosterone inhibition.
Further decline may be prevented by moderation and lifestyle changes.
When to Seek Medical Evaluation
Low testosterone is usually accompanied by the following symptoms: fatigue and low libido, weight gain, mood swings, brain fog, and muscle weakness. Since the symptoms are similar to other health-related issues, adequate lab tests and clinical assessment are required.
Self-diagnosis or the use of hormones in an unsupervised manner is highly discouraged.
Diagnosing the Cause of Low Testosterone
An overall assessment would generally consist of:
- Blood tests to determine testosterone.
- Physiologic history and review of lifestyle.
- Symptom and general health measurements.
Determining the underlying cause enables the providers to know the treatment that should be administered to the patient, be it testosterone replacement therapy or other treatments
Take Control of Your Hormone Health
When treated, low testosterone can be treated. Knowing the reasons will enable men to make an informed choice concerning their health and consult a professional in case of need.
The best way to figure out how to move forward safely and most effectively is to have a licensed healthcare professional assist you in so doing, depending on your needs.