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Testosterone is a hormone produced in the testicles in males and in smaller amounts in the ovaries in females. It plays an important role in the development of male reproductive organs like testes and prostate. It also promotes secondary sexual characteristics like increased muscle and bone mass, facial hair growth, and deepening of the voice during puberty.
In both men and women, testosterone also contributes to overall health and well-being. It helps regulate sex-drive, mood, energy levels, and cognitive function. Cognitive functions include memory, learning, attention, decision making, and language abilities.
FACTORS THAT IMPACT TESTOSTERONE LEVEL
Testosterone levels typically peak during early adulthood and gradually decline with age particularly after age 30. Medical conditions such as obesity, diabetes, and hormonal disorders can also contribute to lowered testosterone production. Lifestyle choices, like excessive alcohol consumption, smoking, and poor diet lacking essential nutrients, can reduce testosterone. Injuries, chronic stress, and inadequate sleep are additional factors linked to reduced testosterone levels. Furthermore, certain medications and treatments, such as chemotherapy and opioid painkillers, can interfere with hormone production.
SIGN AND SYMPTOMS OF LOW LEVEL OF TESTOSTERONE
Low testosterone levels or hypogonadism in men, as it is called in medical terms, can be seen in all age groups. It can lead to various symptoms. There might be decrease in sex-drive, erectile dysfunction, fatigue, depression, and loss of muscle mass in men. In women, low testosterone levels can cause decreased sex-drive, fatigue, and mood changes. In children low testosterone can lead to slow growth in height, less deepening of voice at puberty with poor strength and endurance.
If you think you have signs and symptoms of low testosterone, you must consult a doctor. If your male child is not showing normal signs of puberty by the age of fourteen, you visit a paediatrician. Doctor may perform a physical exam along with a blood test to diagnose testosterone deficiency. Blood sample is usually taken in the morning when testosterone levels are supposed to be highest.
TREATMENT OPTIONS
Treatment options for hypogonadism typically aim to restore testosterone levels to within the normal range. This can involve hormone replacement therapy, which may include testosterone injections, patches, gels, or pellets. Lifestyle changes such as regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, adequate sleep and herbal medication can also help optimize testosterone levels. Addressing underlying health conditions such as obesity or diabetes may improve testosterone production.