Low testosterone – Knowing the signs and symptoms
Published:Wednesday | December 20, 2023 | 12:06 AM
TESTOSTERONE IS the primary sex hormone in men, and it is responsible for the development of many of the physical characteristics that are considered typically male, such as deep voice, hair growth, increased bone density, and many others.
Low testosterone levels in males can lead to erectile dysfunction. It can also affect sleep, mood, the size of the testicles, and more. In both males and females, low testosterone can lead to lower bone mass and reduced sex drive.
Testosterone has many important functions, including the development of the bones and muscles, the deepening of the voice, hair growth, and other factors related to appearance, and the production of sperm.
Testosterone production can slow as a person ages, and many older people experience symptoms of low testosterone.
The American Urological Association defines low testosterone as less than 300 nanograms (ng) of the hormone per deciliter (dl) of blood. They also report that about two in every 100 men have low testosterone.
According to Dr Janice Simmonds-Fisher, chief executive officer and founder at Bioregeneration Integrated Medical Centre, low testosterone levels become more pronounced with the passage of time, affecting nearly 40 per cent of men age 45 and above.
“While age-related testosterone decline is natural, being aware of the signs can help differentiate normal ageing from potentially treatable conditions. The encouraging news is that effective treatment options exist, inviting you to embark on this personalised journey of understanding and proactive wellness,” Dr Simmonds-Fisher said.
Testosterone is a key hormone in male health that controls a range of bodily functions, from sexual development to muscle maintenance. It stimulates sperm production, maintains a healthy sex drive, and contributes to bone strength. For those concerned with physical fitness, testosterone is vital for building and preserving muscle mass.
“While a decline in testosterone production is expected with age, certain risk factors and contributors can accelerate this process. Recognising the symptoms can empower individuals to address low testosterone promptly,” Dr Simmonds-Fisher said.
CORE SYMPTOMS OF LOW-TESTOSTERONE TO WATCH FOR:
• Low sex drive: A significant decrease in libido may signal low testosterone, exceeding the natural decline with age.
• Inability to achieve/maintain erection: Testosterone’s role in stimulating brain receptors for nitric oxide production can affect the ability to achieve and sustain erections.
• Low semen production: Testosterone deficiency may lead to reduced semen production and lower sperm counts during ejaculation.
• Hair loss: Premature balding, especially when rapid, could be indicative of low testosterone affecting normal body functions.
• Fatigue: Persistent fatigue, unrelated to inadequate rest, may be a common sign of low testosterone, impacting motivation for exercise.
• Muscle mass loss: Testosterone is crucial for muscle production and maintenance; low levels may contribute to muscle mass loss.
• Increased body fat: Imbalances caused by low testosterone can lead to increased body fat, potentially causing conditions like gynaecomastia (enlarged breast tissue).
COMMON TREATMENT OPTIONS FOR LOW TESTOSTERONE:
For those facing low testosterone, various treatment options exist to elevate hormone levels and mitigate symptoms:
• Via skin: Creams, gels and skin patches
• Injections: Direct injections are the most optimised method of optimising testosterone.
SPEED OF TREATMENT EFFECTIVENESS:
The speed of treatment effectiveness varies depending on the method with direct bloodstream methods, like injections, yield faster results in four to six weeks. Comprehensive changes, such as increased muscle mass, may take months.
Understanding the causes of low testosterone is essential for effective treatment. Bioregeneration Integrated Medical Centre encourages patients to undergo an integrative blood test to assess not only their testosterone levels but also other hormonal balances. Following this comprehensive analysis, a personalised treatment plan is then recommended.
Bioregeneration Integrated Medical Centre in Jamaica specialises in erectile dysfunction reversal and balancing low testosterone in men. This treatment is done locally by Dr Simmonds-Fisher who has pioneered regenerative medicine in Jamaica for over a decade providing a life-improving treatment that enjoys over 80 per cent success rate in Jamaica’s population.
Bioregeneration is located at 15 Haining Road, Kingston. They can be contacted at 876-552-6484. For any questions, email caremanager@drjanicefisher.com or visit www.ed1000ja.com.