Low testosterone levels have a significant impact on the quality of life. Unfortunately, the condition often goes undetected, simply because the signs are also associated with other physical and emotional issues. By learning more about what causes low testosterone and the way those lower levels manifest, it is possible to work with a physician and design a course of treatment. Here is some information that males and their partners need to know.
The Causes
Knowing what causes low testosterone is one way to get a better idea of what is happening inside. Many people are surprised to learn how many things can cause this condition.
Chronic health issues are definitely a factor. Men with type 2 diabetes are likely to have lower testosterone levels. Obesity is another underlying cause. Heart problems, high levels of bad cholesterol, and infections are also common causes. Lung, liver, and kidney disorders may play roles in the reduced production of testosterone.
The Signs
Along with recognizing what causes low testosterone, it pays to look for symptoms of low T. One of the most common is a change in sexual function. The inability to gain and maintain an erection is one example. A waning desire for intimacy is not unusual with low testosterone levels. Even the amount of semen released during ejaculation will decrease if testosterone levels are dropping.
Not all signs have a direct connection to sexual function and desire. Men may find they have less energy, both in mind and in body. Concentrating on tasks becomes more difficult and the endurance needed to complete those tasks is harder to come by.
Mood changes are also a sign of low T. An increased level of irritability is not uncommon. Some men will become depressed or begin to develop anxiety disorders.
Physically, a male with low T will find it easier to gain weight and harder to build or maintain muscle mass. Even the bones may begin to become more brittle.
What Can Be Done?
Fortunately, low testosterone levels can be treated. The first thing you should do is undergo a complete physical. Doing so will make it easier to determine if there are any developing health issues that are contributing to the problem. For some men, identifying those issues and undergoing treatment for them will be enough to restore the body’s ability to produce a sufficient supply of testosterone.
For example, being diagnosed with type 2 diabetes could answer the question of what causes low testosterone in that patient. At that point, changes in diet and exercise will help. Couple that with the use of an oral medication designed to keep blood glucose levels under control and those testosterone levels could begin to increase.
Along with addressing any chronic or ongoing health issue, it also pays to make some lifestyle changes. If you spend most of the day at a desk, engage in at least 30 minutes of physical activity each day. Even brisk walking will help. Your body is made to be active. By getting up and moving around, you’ll stimulate the production of endorphins, neurotransmitters that help to regulate mood, and the production of testosterone. In a matter of months, you may find that your desire for intimacy is returning.
Under the direction of the doctor, you may undergo testosterone replacement therapy. Like other approaches, the therapy will not produce results overnight. It also does not serve as a replacement for a proper diet and regular exercise. Your doctor can provide guidelines that will lead to the best possible results.
Low T is reversible. Seek help today and things will be better tomorrow.
