Low Testosterone in Young Males: Top Causes and Effects

Testosterone Therapy: What Men Need to Know About Low T and TRT Treatment Los Angeles Times

Symptoms of low testosterone in men under 30 include erectile dysfunction, decreased libido or sexual activity, infertility, and hair loss. Short acting, T nasal gel (Natesto®) is an exogenous T that may not decrease spermatogenesis. Early results from a phase 4 trial reported that Natesto significantly increased median AM T levels without affecting median FSH, LH and semen parameters at 6 months follow-up. Further benefit of Natesto compared to other forms of exogenous TRT includes the ease of delivery, no need for needles and decreased risk of transference (43). IF YOU’RE NOTICING that your sex drive isn’t what it used to be, or that you’re struggling to get through your workouts, or that you’re just feeling down, your testosterone levels could be to blame. Low testosterone can cause many symptoms, and several factors can contribute to a deficiency. However, consistent hormone replacement therapy helps improve sex drive, ease symptoms of depression and increase energy levels for those experiencing low testosterone.

Additionally, urinary stones have a negative impact on quality of life and impose a significant economic burden on patients and health care systems. The most common treatment to correct low growth hormone levels is injections with synthetic growth hormone to correct the deficiency. Growth hormone deficiency can be present from birth due to congenital issues or develop later in life from problems such as a brain injury.

This is required for male internal and external reproductive organ development and later differentiation of secondary human sexual characteristics. FSH, in turn, sustains testicular function via Sertoli cells through spermatogenesis (12). Some inflammatory diseases, like tuberculosis and sarcoidosis, as well as HIV and AIDS impact the hypothalamus and pituitary gland and can affect testosterone levels, according to the AUA. Autoimmune diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis and lupus, are also linked with testosterone deficiency.

But that’s a serious problem as men in that age group have a lot on their plate. All these vital body functions take a hit when testosterone levels go down. Furthermore, the increasing cases of low testosterone in young men are quite threatening. Being aware of these symptoms is essential for young men, as early detection and intervention can lead to improved health outcomes. If experiencing one or more of these symptoms, consulting a healthcare professional is a critical step toward addressing potential hormonal imbalances.

There are hormone and non-hormone treatment options available that a healthcare provider should oversee. Adults who had growth hormone deficiency during childhood will continue to have short stature. Growth hormone deficiency that develops after puberty might not affect height but can cause other health problems like heart disease, loss of muscle, and increased body fat. Each treatment option comes with its considerations, underscoring the importance of consulting healthcare professionals to determine the most appropriate strategy. Through informed decision-making and comprehensive care, young males can effectively manage low testosterone levels and enhance their quality of life. While testosterone decline is a normal part of aging, lifestyle changes can support overall well-being. Consider incorporating a balanced diet, prioritizing sleep, maintaining a healthy weight, limiting alcohol, engaging in regular physical activity, and practicing stress management techniques.

The benefits and risks of using testosterone replacement therapy need to be heavily considered before treatment begins. Chronic recreational drug use (drugs are taken for enjoyment or their psychoactive effects, not for medical reasons) is another cause of secondary acquired hypogonadism. Research has found that people who take drugs like fentanyl and morphine have a high incidence of androgen deficiency. Your doctor will likely test for growth hormone deficiency if you or your child has characteristic signs.

On the flip side, excess body fat may interfere with testosterone production. So, you must try to avoid anything that can lead your body toward obesity. Along with these major signs, there are a few more symptoms that indicate low testosterone levels. Your body needs regular energy to carry out any function or task with or within the body. But unfortunately, low testosterone levels will always make you feel tired and low. There’s no need to reiterate that whatever food we eat is somehow responsible for whatever happens within our bodies. Some foods that higher testosterone directly or indirectly affect the testosterone levels inside the body.

If you are experiencing symptoms of low testosterone, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare provider. Early diagnosis can help manage symptoms and improve overall quality of life. Genetic factors can indeed play a role in low testosterone levels, although they are not always the cause.

To diagnose what’s causing low testosterone levels, a healthcare provider would look at a person’s medical history. Many times, it is an underlying health condition that has caused the low testosterone. It is identified by having decreased or absent testosterone levels and increased gonadotropin levels.