Testosterone deficiency syndrome (TDS) is an increasingly common condition affecting men of all ages. It is characterized by reduced testosterone levels in the blood, which leads to a number of physical and mental ailments. In this article, we will take a closer look at this problem, discussing its symptoms, causes, diagnostics and available treatments.
Table of contents
What is testosterone and what role does it play in the male body?
Testosterone is the main male sex hormone, produced primarily in the testicles. It is responsible for the development of male sexual characteristics during puberty, and also affects:
- Muscle mass and strength: Testosterone stimulates muscle growth and increases physical strength.
- Libido and sexual function: It affects sex drive, erection and sperm production.
- Mood and well-being: Adequate testosterone levels affect the feeling of energy, motivation and self-confidence.
- Bone density: Testosterone protects against osteoporosis.
- Body fat distribution: It affects metabolism and fat burning.
Symptoms of testosterone deficiency – when is it worth seeing a doctor?
The symptoms of testosterone deficiency can be diverse and are often underestimated, attributed to stress or the aging process. The most common symptoms of TDS include:
Physical symptoms:
- Decreased libido and erection problems: Decrease in sex drive, difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection.
- Decrease in muscle mass and strength: Loss of muscle mass, weakening of physical strength.
- Increase in body fat: Weight gain, abdominal obesity.
- Reduction of body hair: Sparse hair on the face, chest and intimate areas.
- Gynecomastia: Breast augmentation in men.
- Osteoporosis: Decreased bone density, increased risk of fractures.
- Hot flashes: Sudden feeling of warmth, sweating, redness of the skin.
- Fatigue and sleep problems: Chronic fatigue, insomnia, sleep disorders.
Mental symptoms:
- Depression: Depressed mood, sadness, apathy, loss of interest.
- Irritability and mood swings: Nervousness, ease of anger, mood swings.
- Concentration and memory problems: Difficulty remembering and focusing attention.
- Decline in self-esteem: Loss of self-confidence, a sense of low self-worth.
Causes of testosterone deficiency – what can affect hormone levels?
Testosterone deficiency can have many causes. The most common include:
- Age: Testosterone levels naturally decline with age, starting around the age of 30.
- Testicular diseases: Damage to the testicles as a result of injury, infection, surgery.
- Diseases of the pituitary gland: Pituitary tumors, hypopituitarism.
- Chronic diseases: Diabetes, kidney disease, liver disease, obesity.
- Medicines: Some medications, such as steroids, can lower testosterone levels.
- Lifestyle: Lack of physical activity, unhealthy diet, stress, alcohol abuse.
Testosterone deficiency diagnosis – how to check the hormone level?
The diagnosis of testosterone deficiency is based on:
- Medical history: The doctor collects information about symptoms, medical history and lifestyle.
- Physical examination: The doctor assesses the state of health, paying attention to muscle mass, hair, and fat distribution.
- Blood test: Determination of testosterone levels in the blood is a basic diagnostic test. It is recommended to do the test in the morning, because testosterone levels are highest then.
Testosterone deficiency treatment – what are the options?
Testosterone deficiency treatment aims to raise hormone levels to normal and relieve symptoms. Available treatments include:
- Hormone replacement therapy (HRT): It consists in the supply of testosterone in various forms: injections, gels, patches, tablets. HRT is an effective treatment for TDS, but it requires regular monitoring of testosterone levels and can cause side effects.
- Lifestyle Changes: A healthy diet, regular physical activity, stress reduction and limiting alcohol can all contribute to increasing testosterone levels.
- Dietary supplements: Some dietary supplements can affect testosterone levels, but their effectiveness is limited and they are not a substitute for HRT.
Benefits of Testosterone Deficiency Treatment – Benefits for Health and Well-Being
Testosterone deficiency treatment can have many benefits, such as:
- Improved libido and sexual function: Increased sex drive, improved erections.
- Increase in muscle mass and strength: Muscle gain, increase in physical strength.
- Improved mood and well-being: Increased energy, reduced symptoms of depression, improved self-esteem.
- Increase in bone density: Protection against osteoporosis.
- Improved metabolism: Reduction of body fat, improvement of lipid profile.
Side effects of testosterone treatment – what to look out for?
Hormone replacement therapy can cause side effects such as:
- Acne: The appearance of acne or the aggravation of existing lesions.
- Hair loss: Loss of hair on the head or growth of body hair.
- Gynecomastia: Breast augmentation.
- Infertility: HRT can inhibit sperm production.
- Prostate Problems: Prostate growth, increased risk of prostate cancer.
- Cardiovascular diseases : Increased risk of heart and blood vessel disease.
Before starting HRT, you should discuss the potential benefits and risks of treatment with your doctor. It is also important to regularly monitor your health and perform check-ups.
Testosterone deficiency syndrome – summary
Testosterone deficiency syndrome is a serious health problem that can negatively affect men’s quality of life. If left untreated, it can lead to serious health complications, so it’s important to keep an eye out for your symptoms and see a doctor if necessary. Early diagnosis and proper treatment allow for effective alleviation of symptoms and improvement of quality of life.
When to suspect testosterone deficiency syndrome?
Testosterone deficiency syndrome can affect men of any age, but it is most common in men over 40. If you observe several of the following symptoms, it is worth consulting a doctor:
- Decrease in libido
- Erection problems
- Decrease in muscle mass
- Increase body fat
- Tiredness
- Depression
- Irritability
- Trouble concentrating
Remember that the symptoms of testosterone deficiency can be non-specific and resemble the symptoms of other diseases. Therefore, it is important to consult a doctor who will make the right diagnosis and recommend appropriate treatment.
How to Increase Testosterone Levels Naturally?
In addition to hormone replacement therapy, there are also natural ways to increase testosterone levels:
- Healthy diet: Consume foods rich in protein, healthy fats and vitamins such as zinc and vitamin D.
- Regular physical activity: Do sports at least 3 times a week. Choose moderate-intensity activities such as brisk walking, cycling or swimming.
- Stress reduction: Use relaxation techniques such as meditation, yoga, or breathing exercises.
- Alcohol restriction: Excessive alcohol consumption can lower testosterone levels.
- Healthy sleep: Take care of regular sleep of 7-8 hours a day.
Testosterone deficiency syndrome and fertility
Low testosterone levels can affect male fertility. Testosterone is essential for sperm production, and its deficiency can lead to a decrease in the quantity and quality of sperm. If you are trying to conceive and suspect you have testosterone deficiency syndrome, consult your doctor. In some cases, TDS treatment can improve fertility.
Testosterone deficiency syndrome – important information
- Early diagnosis and treatment of TDS allows for effective symptom relief and improved quality of life.
- Testosterone deficiency syndrome is a common male health problem.
- The symptoms of TDS can be diverse and are often underestimated.
- Diagnosis of testosterone deficiency is based on a blood test and clinical symptoms.
- Treatment for TDS involves hormone replacement therapy or lifestyle changes.
Remark:
The above article is for informational purposes only and does not replace consultation with a doctor. If you experience any alarming symptoms, you should immediately contact a specialist.
