Low testosterone affects much more than sexual performance. This hormone impacts energy levels, heart function, and even bone health. When levels drop, it is often from things that can be corrected.
Medication can be given to raise the testosterone level, but it is much more important to find out why the level is low.
What causes decreased testosterone? Poor nutrition is a common contributing factor. Specifically, not enough healthy fats (avocados, olive oil, salmon, etc.), excess carbs (especially sugar). A lack of exercise is another contributing factor. Also, hormones that increase with prolonged stress, such as cortisol. When the cortisol production increases, it use up cholesterol so there is less available for testosterone and other hormones that require cholesterol. Statins lower cholesterol levels so they too can impact making testosterone.
There are other medications that can lower testosterone production. Glucocorticoids such as prednisone, opioids, the antifungal ketoconazole, and various environmental toxins. Alcohol increases estrogen and that too affects testosterone. AIDS, cirrhosis, chronic renal failure, certain autoimmune disorders, COPD, osteoporosis, and diabetes can also impact testosterone levels.
Usually, the same things that cause heart disease and diabetes cause low testosterone production. It should be no surprise that low testosterone is a clue that the individual probably has atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries) and/or diabetes. There is such a strong association between low testosterone, erectile dysfunction, and heart disease, that many physicians automatically screen for heart disease in men with difficulty obtaining and maintaining erections.
Signs and symptoms of low testosterone include low libido, decreased morning erections, loss of body hair, low bone mineral density, gynecomastia, and small testes. It can also cause fatigue, depression, anemia, reduced muscle strength, and increased fat, but these are less specific symptoms.
As diet and other changes are made to correct the cause of low testosterone, medications can be given to supplement it. There are many forms of testosterone and these are covered in this You Tube video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m6ooGW_o4ow
It is significant that treatment of low testosterone often improves heart function. The good health habits that support testosterone production are good for every cell of the body. They are definitely worth the effort.
References:
Snyder, Dr. P. “Clinical features and diagnosis of male hypogonadism.” Up to Date, 5/5/22.
Heidelbaugh, Dr. J. “Hypogonadism: Workup and Management.” Audio Digest, Volume 68, no. 42, 11/14/2020.
watchwhatgoesin 