CONDITIONS
Low Testosterone Levels/Testosterone Deficiency Syndrome
Overview
Testosterone is the main sexual hormone in men. It is essential for the development of secondary male features such as body and facial hair, a deeper voice, and muscle strength. Men also need testosterone to produce sperm.
Low testosterone levels in men is also known as testosterone deficiency syndrome (TD). Because testosterone decreases as we age, testosterone deficiency syndrome is common among older men.
What are the related symptoms of low testosterone?
Low testosterone may cause several symptoms, such as:
- Reduced sex drive
- Decreased erectile function
- Loss of body hair and reduced beard growth
- Loss of muscle mass/ strength
- Development of central obesity and diabetes
- Symptoms of depression/anxiety
- Fatigue and loss of overall vitality
Having one of the symptoms mentioned above may not suggest that you have low testosterone, but if you experience a combination of these symptoms, you must seek medical attention to check for testosterone deficiency syndrome.
How is testosterone deficiency syndrome treated?
After the diagnosis or exclusion of underlying causes and treatment of associated medical conditions, Dr Le Roux may prescribe testosterone replacement therapy. This will be done in combination with lifestyle modification.
Successful treatment of low testosterone levels, when appropriate, is associated with a significant overall health benefit.
A Urologist has an important role as the custodian of overall men's health, and symptoms of low testosterone levels are often signal to take decisive action.