Testosterone is the original anabolic steroid, and its presence is responsible for the characteristics of maleness. Body hair, a deepened voice, the growth of facial hair and the development of muscles are all attributed to the presence of this hormone in the male body. The level of testosterone in men has been steadily declining since 1920. Comparing the average level of testosterone in males from the 1940s through the present reveals a drop of nearly 50%. The presence of lower testosterone prompts many to seek testosterone replacement therapy.
Alleviate Symptoms of Deficiencies
Symptoms of decreased testosterone levels include lowered sex drive, increased risk of osteoporosis, depression, reduced muscle mass, hair loss, difficulty concentrating and fatigue. Raising testosterone levels in men through hormone replacement therapy will decrease these symptoms experienced by men who possess less than the accepted baseline amount of testosterone in the body. The average level of testosterone is currently 350 ng/dl, and levels below this point are deficient. A prolonged deficiency of testosterone can lead to a greater risk of heart disease and depression. Other symptoms that may also be present include low interest or enjoyment of life, sadness, mood swings and loss of job performance.
Side Effects of Testosterone Increases
Increasing your testosterone levels, either by hormone replacement therapy or other methods, will help deal with the symptoms of low testosterone, but side effects are possible as a result in the increase. Common side effects include prostate enlargement, acne, bloating, decreased sex drive and hair loss. The most severe and potentially embarrasing side effect is the development of gynecomastia, or the enlargement of breast tissue. Voice deepening is also possible as the level of testosterone increases in the body.
Increased Risk of Cancer
Increases in the level of testosterone may result in a worsening of prostate disease in patients. The increased level enhances the enlargement of the prostate in cases where cancer is not present. Testosterone acts upon cancerous tissue in the prostate causing it to grow. Unnoticed cancers of the prostate may enlarge due to the increased testosterone, and can lead to a state of showing symptoms, which if left untreated can lead to death. If testosterone levels rise too much, the excess testosterone will convert to estrogen, which may lead to the development of prostate cancer.
