Testosterone Deficiency Syndrome

Hypogonadism: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments

About

Testosterone Deficiency Syndrome also called as hypogonadism, is a condition where a man’s body is unable to produce sufficient testosterone, the primary male hormone.
Hypogonadism is more common in men aged above 60 though it can affect men of all ages. [1]
- Requires a medical diagnosis.
- Low testosterone levels.
- No specific cause mostly.
- Affects only men.
- Chronic: Can last for years or throughout life.
- Sometimes asymptomatic.
- Treatment can help, but the condition is incurable.
- Lab tests, imaging are always required.
If hypogonadism takes place before puberty, growth and sexual development may be affected. In case of after puberty, there could be sexual difficulties and reduced fertility. This condition is not an inevitable result of aging. It is also termed as the male menopause.
Causes: Excess secretion of one or more pituitary hormones that interfere with T-production.

Symptoms

Self-diagnosable
People may experience the following:
1. Loss of sex drive- Sex drive or libido is drastically dropped.
2. Erectile dysfunction- Low T levels cause difficulty in achieving an erection prior to intercourse. This further causes depression, diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and stress.
3. Hair loss- Low T levels cause loss of body and facial hair.
4. Low semen volume- T plays a key role in the production of semen which is reduced after hypogonadism.

Treatment

Self-care: Exercises and relaxation is recommended.
Medications: Intramuscular injections, testosterone gel are useful.
Specialists: Consult an endocrinologist for other concerns. In serious cases, testosterone replacement therapy is necessary. At mfine, you can get a comprehensive treatment plan for optimum health.