Low Testosterone – What Does It Mean?

Low testosterone, or male hypogonadism, occurs when your testicles do not produce enough testosterone, which is the male sex hormone.

Testosterone is responsible for male sexual desire and sexual function. It also has significant effects on energy, cardiovascular health, muscles, bones, and brain function.

Studies have shown that 20% of men over 60 years old, and up to 50% of men over 80 years suffer from testosterone deficiency.

Signs & Symptoms

Symptoms of low testosterone can vary depending on age. The most common symptoms include:

  • Reduced sex drive
  • Erectile dysfunction
  • Low sperm count
  • Increased body fat
  • Reduced energy
  • Reduced endurance

Other symptoms of male hypogonadism include:

  • Loss of armpit and pubic hair
  • Hot flashes
  • Fatigue
  • Poor memory and concentration
  • Reduced motivation
  • Depressed mood

What Causes Low Testosterone?

The causes of low testosterone are classified into two main categories: primary and secondary male hypogonadism.

Causes of Primary Male Hypogonadism

With primary male hypogonadism, it occurs due to either a congenital or an acquired testicular problem. Congenital means that you are born with it, and acquired means that it is a result of something else, such as trauma, radiation, or mumps.

Causes of Secondary Male Hypogonadism

Secondary male hypogonadism is responsible for most of the low testosterone cases. With this, testosterone levels are low due to complex physiological and behavioral factors that interfere with the production of testosterone. These factors can include obesity, head trauma, and diabetes.

Treating Low Testosterone at Precision Toronto

At Precision Toronto, we offer our patients a low testosterone assessment. If our doctor determines that you may benefit from testosterone replacement therapy, you will be referred for that treatment.

In the meantime, Precision Toronto recommends some lifestyle changes for all our patients to help prevent any sexual dysfunction. These include:

  • Exercising regularly
  • Quitting smoking
  • Reducing the intake of alcohol
  • Eliminating the use of recreational drugs

Precision Toronto also recommends that men seek out counseling to help deal with any stress, anxiety, or depression they may be dealing with. Changes of this kind are intended to improve the ability to have sexual intercourse without worrying about low testosterone symptoms.

Low testosterone in Toronto & North York, ON