Some of the changes your body experiences with aging occur due to a reduction in specific hormone levels. According to the Mayo Clinic, testosterone declines by about one percent a year after age 30. There can be other reasons why testosterone levels drop and some of these are preventable. Understanding why your body is experiencing a drop in testosterone and how to treat it, may provide you with many positive mental and physical benefits.
Function
Testosterone is a principal male hormone, or androgen. It does appear in both genders, but levels are much lower in women. Testosterone is secreted by the testes in men and the ovaries in women. It is derived from cholesterol, just like other steroid hormones. Testosterone is classified as an anabolic steroid, as it will increase body tissue size and encourage the retention of protein by your body. Effects include growth of muscle mass and strength, increased bone density and strength, stimulation of height growth, bone maturation, maturation of the sex organs, deepening of the voice, and growth of body and facial hair.
Causes
After age 30, the body begins to lower testosterone levels by about one to two percent per year in men as part of the natural aging process. Some men experience a drop in testosterone sooner, or lose a higher percent per year. The Mayo Clinic states that this drop in testosterone, not related to natural aging, is called male hypogonadism. The condition occurs when the body doesn't produce enough of the hormone testosterone. Hypogonadism can be caused by various conditions, including injury to the testes, disorders of the hypothalamus or pituitary gland, cancer treatment, certain drugs, obesity and HIV/AIDS. There are also preventable causes for hypogonadism.
Symptoms
Symptoms of low testosterone include changes in sexual function, sleep patterns, muscle mass and mood. A feeling of lower self-confidence due to many of these physical changes is not uncommon. A reduction in your libido or ability to become aroused, along with a sense that you are not able to maintain your strength can lead to depression. Talk with your doctor if you experience any of these symptoms.
Treatment
According to the Mayo Clinic, testosterone therapy can help reverse the effects of hypogonadism. Testosterone therapy increases testosterone levels through medications. Testosterone supplementation can be provided through injections, orally, gel, gum or patches. Your physician will run lab tests to measure your hormone levels, and he may also perform tests to make sure your hypothalamus and pituitary gland are functioning appropriately.
Making some changes in your lifestyle can also increase testosterone levels. Make sure you get plenty of rest, work on reducing stress levels, exercise regularly and keep your weight in a healthy range. You should also consider taking multivitamins and eating a proper diet.
Warning
There are some risks associated with testosterone therapy, including sleep apnea; increased concentration of red blood cells, which can lead to a greater risk of heart disease; skin problems; prostate enlargement; and lower sperm production. Taking pharmaceutical drugs without physician oversight can be dangerous and may cause more harm than good. Never take more medication than your physician prescribes.
