Testosterone is commonly known as the male sex hormone, but women also naturally produce testosterone. In both men and women, testosterone is produced in the gonads. Male gonads are the testes and female gonads are the ovaries.
Low testosterone in men is also referred to as Low T, or in a clinical setting, testosterone deficiency syndrome (TD) or hypogonadism. The proper balance of these hormones in both men and women is essential to proper sexual development and overall health.
There are many symptoms in males related to low testosterone and a few in females. The chart below outlines the most common symptoms:
The nature of the symptoms and their severity will vary by individual based on an array of factors including genetics, lifestyle, and each individual’s physical history.
The most common cause of low testosterone is age. As a man ages, testosterone levels gradually and naturally decline after age 30. However, there are a variety of additional causes of low testosterone in both men and women as the chart displays:
Once the underlying cause of low testosterone is determined, treatment options can be discussed with your doctor.
The following factors increase the risk of low testosterone in both men and women:
Alcohol or drug abuseAddressing these risk factors may help curtail the onset of low testosterone.
Low testosterone is diagnosed with a specific blood test performed by a medical laboratory. In the initial diagnosis, multiple blood test measurements may be necessary because testosterone levels change throughout the day.
There are some natural ways to boost testosterone levels as well as testosterone treatment therapies. The natural testosterone therapies include lifestyle adjustments, such as:
When clinical therapies are deemed necessary, your physician will prescribe appropriate testosterone replacement therapy (TRT), which is the most common treatment for low testosterone, or clomiphene therapy.
Due to the nature of this hormonal condition which directly relates to the endocrine system, our doctors at Rocky Mountain Diabetes Center are highly trained to identify and effectively treat low testosterone.
If you or someone you love is experiencing any of the symptoms or conditions above, call Rocky Mountain Diabetes for an appointment, or fill out the form below.