Testosterone is a hormone males produce in their testicles. It is necessary to maintain fat distribution, bone density, and sex drive. It also affects muscle mass and strength, sperm and red blood cell production, and body and facial hair growth. As a man ages, his testosterone levels decrease. What effect does this decrease have on the body?
A Decrease in Testosterone Levels
Most men find their testosterone levels peak during adolescence and early adulthood. As they age, they begin losing approximately one percent of their testosterone level each year, starting when they are 30 or 40. However, testosterone levels might also decrease as a result of a disease, such as hypogonadism. If a man finds their testosterone level is decreasing, it’s time to look into personalized testosterone therapy.
Hypogonadism interferes with the man’s ability to produce average testosterone amounts. The testicles may be to blame, or it could be the fault of the pituitary gland controlling the testicles. A doctor will recommend replacement therapy when a man is diagnosed with this condition. This therapy comes as injections, gels, patches, or pills, and all will reduce the signs and symptoms associated with low testosterone.
Reduced Testosterone Levels and Signs of Aging
Men often blame lower testosterone levels for the signs of aging they are seeing. This lower level may account for some signs of aging, but not all of them. Changes in sexual function are one sign of lower testosterone levels. The man may not feel sexual desire as often, or they might experience fewer spontaneous erections when they are sleeping. Infertility may also be the result of low testosterone.
When testosterone levels drop, a man may notice their body fat increasing just as their muscle bulk and strength decrease. A decline in bone density is cause for concern, and some men find their breasts become swollen or tender, a condition known as gynecomastia. Body hair loss and decreased energy are other problems a man might experience.
Furthermore, men might lose confidence or motivation. Depression, difficulty concentrating, and memory issues may also be the result of low testosterone. However, these symptoms might be due to another medical issue, such as obstructive sleep apnea, diabetes, depression, or medication side effects. A doctor must do a blood test to learn whether low testosterone is to blame or if something else is going on.
Testosterone Therapy and Healthy Men
Researchers have yet to determine whether testosterone therapy will help healthy men. Studies show it reverses hypogonadism effects, but some men say they feel younger and healthier with testosterone medications. At this time, the American College of Physicians states testosterone therapy may be of benefit for sexual function in particular men. Still, it continues to say there is little evidence that it does anything for vitality and energy.
Risks of Testosterone Therapy
Men should weigh the benefits and risks before taking testosterone for normal aging. It could lead to worsening sleep apnea. Some men develop acne when taking testosterone, and certain men find their breasts grow. The prostate may grow, a condition known as benign prostatic hyperplasia, or existing prostate cancer might worsen. Some men find testosterone therapy limits their sperm production or their testicles shrink. Red blood cell production increases in certain men taking testosterone, which increases their odds of a blood clot forming and causing a pulmonary embolism.
It’s always best to speak to a doctor to learn if testosterone therapy is the right choice. Testosterone levels are typically measured two or more times before a doctor agrees to this step. Normal aging isn’t best treated with this therapy. The doctor will recommend other ways to raise hormone levels naturally, such as losing weight and increasing resistance exercise. Natural ways tend to be best for most men.
