13 Jan Understanding Low Testosterone In Aging: Causes And Management

What Causes Low Testosterone in Aging Men?

Low testosterone (low T) caused by natural aging is known as late-onset hypogonadism (LOH) or andropause.¹

This cause of low T is characterized by a decline in Leydig and hypothalamic-pituitary cell function, which can eventually lead to reduced testosterone levels and even hinder sperm production.

It’s essential to differentiate this unique cause of low testosterone, as many health and lifestyle choices can aid a decline in testosterone levels.

Other contributors to low testosterone levels include:

• Choices in diet, sleep, and exercise
• Medications that may be negatively affecting testosterone levels and production
• Other health complications that cause low T as a side effect

For some men, low testosterone levels can be easy to diagnose and manage. In other cases, a doctor may have to do an in-depth investigation to determine the core issue causing low T.

How Low Testosterone Can Affect the Male Body

Healthy testosterone levels play a vital part in the function of several systems within the body. Insufficient levels of testosterone can lead to various other health concerns. That said, it’s important to note that the effects of low T vary on a case-by-case basis.

Without ample levels of testosterone, men could experience some or all of the following health complications:

• Reduced muscle mass and physical strength
• Complications with bone density

• Healthy sexual reproductive functionality
• Issues with mood regulation and cognitive function

While some men experience very mild symptoms, others experience more debilitating effects of low T. With appropriate guidance from a licensed and trained healthcare professional, symptoms can be managed effectively.

Lifestyle Changes That Can Help Low T

There are a variety of treatments to address low T. However, certain lifestyle changes can also effectively relieve symptoms. Even if additional therapies are required, making healthy lifestyle choices can help increase the benefits of these treatments.

Effective lifestyle changes for managing low T include:

• Exercise routines that support testosterone production
• Diet and nutrition that includes a focus on hormone balance
• Healthy sleep practices, including a consistent schedule and good sleep hygiene

Medical Professionals Can Help

Whether you want to focus on lifestyle changes to help address low T concerns or are interested in additional therapies, the guidance of a healthcare provider is invaluable.

Many of the symptoms of low T are common in other health conditions as well. A doctor can conduct a health evaluation and order lab tests to help confirm the cause of your symptoms and determine the best course of treatment.

This means that treatments can be tailored to your needs specifically. Knowing how to make lifestyle changes can feel overwhelming, given the flood of conflicting information available online. A doctor can help you tailor a realistic, achievable plan according to your needs and preferences.

In the case of hormone therapies, no treatment is right for everyone for a variety of reasons, including health history, health risks, any medications you may be taking, and more. A doctor will guide you towards the treatments that will be safest and most effective for your situation while taking your health goals and life plans into account as well.

Last Words

Testosterone levels decline naturally with age, which can cause symptoms of varying severity. Insufficient testosterone levels can cause significant health issues if left unchecked for extended periods of time. In some cases, these symptoms can be addressed by making healthier lifestyle changes, which not only benefits testosterone levels, but the body overall. In other cases, hormone treatments may be required to relieve symptoms and ensure long-term health.

It is important to consult a doctor regarding your concerns surrounding low T to identify the cause of your symptoms and achieve the best possible outcome in addressing this health condition.