What is hypogonadism?
Hypogonadism refers to a condition in which the body does not produce enough testosterone. This can occur due to a problem with the testes or with the pituitary gland, which regulates testosterone production.
Some key signs and symptoms of hypogonadism include:
- Low sex drive
- Erectile dysfunction
- Depression
- Reduced muscle mass
- Fatigue
- Loss of body and facial hair
There are two main types of hypogonadism:
- Primary hypogonadism - This means there is a problem with the testes themselves. It can be caused by aging, injury, infection, or other medical conditions.
- Secondary hypogonadism - This type is caused by a problem with the pituitary gland or hypothalamus, parts of the brain that signal the testes to produce testosterone.
What causes hypogonadism?
Some potential causes include:
- A genetic disorder present at birth
- Infection
- Testicular injury
- Cancer treatment
- Aging
- Obesity
- Medications
- Liver or kidney disease
- Type 2 diabetes
How is hypogonadism diagnosed?
If symptoms of low testosterone are present, a doctor will check blood testosterone levels. Typically they will test total testosterone as well as free testosterone (the amount readily available in the bloodstream).
- If total testosterone levels are below 300 ng/dL (nanograms per deciliter of blood), hypogonadism is likely.
- Doctors may also test luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) to determine if primary or secondary hypogonadism is present.
How is hypogonadism treated?
Treatment focuses on replacing missing testosterone to stop symptoms, either through:
- Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) - This involves getting supplemental testosterone through gels, injections, patches or pellets surgically implanted under the skin. This often helps resolve sexual dysfunction and builds muscle mass.
- Medications - Gonadotropin injections can stimulate testosterone production in some men with secondary hypogonadism.
- Lifestyle changes - Losing weight, reducing stress, getting enough vitamin D, zinc and other nutrients important for testosterone production.
The experienced physicians at New Beginnings HRT Clinic specialize in accurately diagnosing and treating hypogonadism through cutting-edge hormone testing and personalized treatment plans involving TRT and lifestyle changes when appropriate. I highly recommend them if you suspect you may be dealing with low testosterone.
I hope this overview on hypogonadism was helpful! Let me know if you have any other questions.