Testosterone is the hormone that spurs the production masculine qualities in men, such as deep voices and facial hair. Although women produce small levels of testosterone, testosterone production determines whether or not a fetus will become male or female. As males mature, testosterone plays a significant role in their daily lives, including maintaining concentration and sex drive.
How Testosterone Works
The production of testosterone is largely triggered by arousal or stimulation. This, in turn, sends a signal from the brain to the pituitary gland, setting in motion a chain of events that leads to testosterone production. Testosterone is produced in the male testes, where it is derived from cholesterol by cells called Leydig cells. The testes release small amounts of testosterone into the blood stream and are transferred to cells, where it influences processes like muscle production.
Changes in Testosterone Levels
Due to the complex nature of testosterone production, changes in testosterone levels can be due to a number of factors. Men with damage to their testes may experience low testosterone production, while others may experience it as a result of genetic conditions. Boys who experience testicular trauma as children may also experience low testosterone levels as adults. A study conducted by Thomas G. Travison of the New England Research Institutes also concludes that diet and alcohol consumption may also impact testosterone levels, as both can expose men to estrogen, a female hormone that causes testosterone levels to drop in men. Testosterone levels also drop naturally as men age and can drop significantly for those who are overweight.
Effects of Low Testosterone
Men with low levels of testosterone are likely to experience a decline in sex drive as well as erectile dysfunction. Low testosterone levels are also associated with poor mood and fatigue. An inability to concentrate may also be present in men with low levels of testosterone. Men who engage in physical activity but have low testosterone levels may also notice less strength. Testosterone boosters may remedy these symptoms and can be beneficial to many men. However, only a doctor can determine if a patient suffers from low testosterone and will perform one or more blood and other types of tests to determine if the testosterone is low.
What Are Testosterone Boosters?
The Cleveland Clinic notes that testosterone supplements come in the form of injections, patches, creams or gels. Medically approved testosterone supplements must be administered by a physician who has determined that a patient does, in fact, suffer from low testosterone levels. Testosterone boosters can also be purchased but do not contain enough of the hormone to affect the patient and may cause liver damage.
Considerations
Testosterone supplements are to be administered consistently, depending on the form of therapy chosen. According to the Cleveland Clinic, those who choose to take testosterone supplements may experience acne, fluid retention, breast enlargement and decreased testicle size. As such, those who are on testosterone replacements of any form must schedule regular follow-up appointments with their physician.
