Testosterone deficiency - Vitality Hormone Clinic

What is testosterone deficiency?

Testosterone deficiency, also known as low testosterone or hypogonadism, is a condition where the body does not produce enough of the hormone testosterone. This can occur in both men and women, but is more common in older men. Some key signs and symptoms of low testosterone include:

• Decreased libido - Low sex drive and erectile dysfunction are common.
• Loss of muscle mass - Muscle mass and strength may decline, despite exercise.
• Increased body fat - There is a shift in body composition to higher body fat.
• Reduced energy - Fatigue, lack of motivation and depression may occur.
• Mood changes - Irritability, anxiety and sadness are often reported.
• Loss of body hair - Less facial, chest and pubic hair.
• Decreased bone density - Osteoporosis risk goes up.

There are two primary causes of testosterone deficiency:

Primary hypogonadism - This is when the testes do not produce enough testosterone due to genetic, autoimmune or infection factors. Often it is age-related.

Secondary hypogonadism - This is when the pituitary gland does not signal the testes properly to produce testosterone. Issues with the hypothalamus can also affect this signaling.

Diagnosis is made through blood tests of total and free testosterone levels. Levels that are below normal on 2 or more tests indicate deficiency. A doctor may also check luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), estradiol and prolactin levels.

Treatment options include:

• Testosterone replacement therapy - This can be given as injections, gels, patches or pellets to restore normal levels.
• Lifestyle changes - Improving diet, exercise, sleep and stress can help boost natural testosterone in some cases.
• Addressing underlying causes - Treating pituitary tumors, metabolic disorders or inflammatory conditions may resolve secondary hypogonadism.

If you are experiencing potential symptoms of low testosterone, I recommend getting checked out by a knowledgeable physician or men's health clinic, such as Vitality Hormone Clinic. Their expert medical team can accurately diagnose and treat testosterone deficiency through science-based protocols customized to your unique health needs. Regaining normal testosterone levels can make a tremendous difference in your overall health, vitality and wellbeing!