1. Early Diagnosis is Key
There is no way to prevent a child from being born with hypogonadism. Understanding the symptoms of hypogonadism and getting an early diagnosis can prevent some of the more serious complications of this disorder, however. A doctor should be able to diagnose a newborn with hypogonadism in the postnatal examination and recommend treatment.
Parents should pay attention to the onset of puberty in in their children. If puberty is delayed or physical development does not occur according to common expectations, a visit to the doctor can determine whether there is a hormone problem that needs to be treated.
As an adult, if you notice traits of the opposite gender developing on your body such as the growth of breast tissue in a male or unwanted hair growth in a female, get it checked out. If treatment is received in time, many of the physical effects can be prevented or reversed.
2. Monitor Medication Use
Certain medications, including opiate painkillers and synthetic hormones, can upset hormone production. These medications should always be taken under a doctor's supervision. Additionally, cancer treatments such as chemotherapy and radiation therapy can cause hypogonadism. While this complication cannot be completely prevented, catching it early and getting the appropriate treatment can prevent obvious physical symptoms from developing. Make sure your hormone levels are regularly checked if you are in treatment for cancer or taking opiates and/or synthetic hormones.
3. Stay at a Healthy Weight
Obesity is a trigger for hypogonadism. Maintaining a healthy weight through good eating habits and regular exercise can reduce your risk. Additionally, if you have been diagnosed with hypogonadism and are overweight or obese, you can often improve your hormone levels by losing weight. Conversely, severe weight loss caused by anorexia nervosa can also be a cause of hypogonadism. Anorexia nervosa is usually treated with psychological counseling that may include in-patient rehabilitation.
4. Have Testicular Traumas Checked
Hypogonadism in men can be caused by trauma to the testicles. If testicular function is impaired through trauma, the testicles may not be able to produce enough testosterone. This trauma can be caused by physical force or can result from an infection such as mumps or HIV/AIDS. In the case of physical trauma, surgery may be needed to preserve function. Any serious trauma to your testicle should be examined by a doctor. You may need to have follow-up hormone tests to make sure testicular function returns after trauma.
