As men age, there is a naturally decline in testosterone levels, particularly after the age of 30, at which point levels are estimated to drop by 1% each year. This natural depletion can lead to low testosterone levels, and the condition of hypogonadism, which will cause a range of symptoms detrimental to overall health.
What is low testosterone?
Necessary for the overall development of the male body and characteristics, testosterone maintains the bone density, muscle strength, and sexual function of the body. But, once testosterone levels become too low, it can bring about a condition know as hypogonadism, which occurs when either the testes or ovaries fail to produce enough of the sex hormones, including testosterone.
Causes of Low Testosterone
It is difficult to determine the cause of low testosterone, but for men it is typically the testes, where testosterone is made, that contributes to lower levels of testosterone, however, the pituitary gland where testosterone is regulated can also be the culprit.Other factors that can cause low testosterone include:
- Aging
- Certain medications
- Chronic Illnesses
- Obesity
- Injury to the testes or ovaries
- Chemotherapy or radiation therapy
- Congenital disorders
Symptoms of Low Testosterone and Hypogonadism
Both low testosterone and hypogonadism share similar symptoms, which include:
- Low sex drive
- Erectile Dysfunction
- Fatigue
- Loss of Muscle Mass
- Decreased Bone Density
- Mood Changes
- Hot flashes
- Infertility
Men and women can experience specific symptoms that indicate one of these conditions, men could experience issues such as decreased body hair, breast growth, and testicular shrinkage, while women may experience irregular periods, dryness, and breast shrinkage.
Treatment
Depending on the cause and severity of the condition, treatment for low testosterone and hypogonadism can vary. Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) is the most common treatment option that is offered for those suffering from these conditions, as it involves replacing the missing hormones with synthetic ones.
Other treatment options for low testosterone can include testosterone gels or patches, injections, and surgery, although this depends on the individuals circumstances.
Diagnosing low testosterone
If you suspect that you are suffering from symptoms of hypogonadism or low testosterone, talk to your healthcare provider, generally they will look at your medical history and perform a physical examination, but they can also ask for blood tests.We offer two blood tests that can be particularly helpful in diagnosing potential low testosterone, the testosterone blood test, and the male hormone blood test, can be used to gain an insight into your hormone levels.
Our Blood Tests:
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B12 Vitamin injections
B12 hydroxocobalamin vitamin injections
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Full Wellbeing blood test (Male Profile)
This blood test measures various biomarkers such as full blood count, thyroid function, vitamin D, anemia, cholesterol, diabetes, inflammation, kidney and liver function, testosterone, and PSA.
View more details£220.00
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Male hormone blood test
Male Hormone Blood Test checks for hormonal causes of low sex drive, muscle loss, fertility issues. Can track hormone levels & changes from diet, exercise. Tests for FSH, LH, Testosterone, Free Androgen Index, Prolactin, SHBG.
View more details£160.00
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