Being diagnosed with low testosterone levels in the body can be a sign of some underlying health problems. To avoid any unwanted health complications, it is essential to raise and maintain the levels of this vital hormone.
There are a number of hormones that are produced by the glands in the endocrine system, which perform various vital functions. Testosterone is a male sex hormone, also known as androgen, which is produced in the testes (or the male gonads). The key function of this hormone is to develop the male reproductive system, and is also responsible for the secondary male characteristics like facial hair, deep voice, and physical development.
This hormone is also produced in females, but in small quantities. It also helps regulate the menstrual cycle. It also plays a key role in boosting the energy in the body, growth, and development of the bones and muscles. At times, old age and other health conditions result in low testosterone levels. This health condition is also known as hypogonadism.
Causes
The normal amount of testosterone in the body can range anywhere between 200 to 1200 ng/dL. There can be many reasons why the body suffers from androgen deficiency. Given below are some of the causes.
- Age plays a major role in determining the levels of this hormone in the body. As the individual ages, the glands secrete less as compared to when the individual was young. This is a natural causative factor.
- Malformed testicles is also one of the reasons for this deficiency in men. The testicles fail to produce the required amount of this hormone in the body, due to blockage in the ducts. This condition can be a congenital disorder.
- Another causative factor in men is a condition called hemochromatosis, which is a result of high levels of iron in the body. This abnormal amount of iron can lead to disruption in the function of the testicles, resulting in less secretion of androgen.
- Radiation and chemotherapy can destroy the cells and damage the function of the testes. Some individuals can also experience infertility as a result of this.
- Obesity is also one of the causes of a drop in testosterone in women. Since there is an increase in fat cells, it can lead to excessive conversion of estrogen, which is the female sex hormone, resulting in a drop in the levels of androgen.
Symptoms
If you are suffering from this deficiency, then your body will exhibit the following signs.
- In males, erectile dysfunction and decreased libido can be observed.
- There is also a noticeable increase in body mass, due to overaccumulation of fat in the body, since the body fails to convert fat into muscles.
- Hot flashes and irritability are some of the symptoms in women.
- Other symptoms may include fatigue, high blood pressure, sleep disorders, difficulty in concentrating, etc.
Treatment
Low testosterone levels can be a very distressing condition, since the bodily functions are impaired. The doctor may perform certain diagnostic tests like a blood test to check for the exact amount of the hormone in the body. Once the diagnosis is done, the doctor may administer treatment according to the requirement of the individual. There are injections, patches, and gels to treat this condition.
Oral pills are also prescribed for this. Modern medicine has found a new method to treat this deficiency. Men can undergo therapy, where the hormone is replaced through intramuscular injections. There are also some supplements that increase the androgen in the body. But these supplements must be taken under the guidance of a doctor to avoid side effects. If you want to increase this hormone in a natural way, then there are certain exercises and foods that boost testosterone.
Now that you know the way to increase testosterone levels, you may follow these methods to get positive results. However, opting for artificial techniques and supplements may cause side effects and other health problems. Using natural cures is the best way to go. Always consult a health care provider if you are suffering from hormonal imbalance.
Disclaimer: This article is for informative purposes only and should not be used as a replacement for expert medical advice.