centered image

centered image

A Visual Guide to Low Testosterone

Discussion in 'Physiology' started by Riham, Apr 4, 2016.

  1. Riham

    Riham Bronze Member

    Joined:
    Jan 13, 2016
    Messages:
    831
    Likes Received:
    80
    Trophy Points:
    1,350
    Gender:
    Female
    Practicing medicine in:
    Egypt

    ddfbeaaec0e5d4aaf5eaf619303a905e.jpg

    What Is Testosterone?

    Testosterone may be the most notorious of hormones. It conjures up thoughts of muscles and masculinity. In fact, testosterone does fuel sex drive and muscle mass, but it also regulates mood and bone strength. When a man's level falls below normal, a doctor may prescribe shots, gels, or patches. But there is some debate over who needs treatment.


    676312c017e1bdc77ff8f396b39b63b5.jpg


    Aging and Testosterone Levels
    A slow drop in testosterone is a normal part of aging, sometimes called "andropause" or "male menopause." For many men, this doesn't cause any significant problems or symptoms. Others may notice hot flashes, irritable moods, or less interest in sex.

    f1095138972f475c2ce95c6863c0685e.jpg
    Low Testosterone and the Body
    Low testosterone can cause visible changes in some men:
    • Thinner muscles
    • Loss of body hair
    • Smaller, softer testicles
    • Larger breasts

    cb7f8695ddce008d95d9f1ae2f62e02d.jpg
    Low Testosterone Affects Bones
    You may think osteoporosis, or brittle bone disease, is a woman's disease, but it can affect men as well. Low testosterone is a common cause. As testosterone levels fall, the bones may get thinner, weaker, and more likely to break.

    b3829c9311bfc03f4a16efce5d52193c.jpg
    Low Testosterone and Sex
    A drop in testosterone doesn't always interfere with sex, but it can make it more difficult for your brain and body to get aroused. Some men may notice a drop in libido, while others may lose interest in sex completely. Low testosterone can also make it tougher to get or keep an erection.


    93f5cfc73460879a2a3fe0a96fa7d079.jpg
    Testosterone, Mood, and Thinking
    Some men have subtle problems like irritability or other mood changes, poor concentration, and less energy. These symptoms can easily be caused by other health problems though, like anemia, depression, sleep troubles, or a chronic illness



    dbac6d717d62da826f16acb449c8d1b3.jpg
    Low Testosterone and Infertility
    Testosterone helps a man's body make sperm. When levels of the hormone are low, his sperm "count" can be low, too. Without enough sperm, he may not be able to father a child.

    54b9f69704da0767a647905ed33fc7f6.jpg
    What Causes Low Testosterone?
    Getting older is the most common reason testosterone levels dip. Illnesses are sometimes to blame, including:

    • Type 2 diabetes
    • Liver or kidney disease
    • COPD
    • Pituitary gland problems
    • Testicle injuries
    Radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and steroid medicines can also affect testosterone levels.


    46d9129970d93bb3fc95ffa025088239.jpg
    Should You Be Tested?
    Your doctor may suggest a testosterone test if you have:

    If you have an illness known to lower testosterone, your doctor may want to test your levels of the hormone.
    f812a973a5b2f3c08aa88cce74c82b70.jpg
    Testosterone Replacement Therapy
    If you need treatment, your doctor may prescribe testosterone to boost your levels. Some studies suggest this can strengthen a man's muscles, protect his bones, and improve his sex drive. But the effects can be quite different from one man to the next.

    38279630aa45c72968274b30a01085f5.jpg
    Testosterone Injections
    Testosterone comes in several forms, including shots, gels, patches, and tablets you place on your gums. Injections are the least expensive option, but they can be painful. You take the shots every 7 to 22 days, as prescribed by your doctor. Your testosterone levels can swing up and down between doses.

    b02980b94ea1a99dd4ab8ca6a358db26.jpg
    Testosterone Gels or Patches
    These are placed directly on your skin. The hormone seeps through the skin, and is slowly released into the blood. Because gels and patches are applied every day, they keep a steady level of testosterone. However, they can cause itching, irritation, and blisters. Women and children should not touch skin treated with a gel or
    patch.


    100a2fadf7dd27b664bfcb055706a9a5.jpg
    Who Should Not Take Testosterone?
    Men with these conditions shouldn't take testosterone:
    • Prostate or breast cancer
    • Poorly controlled heart disease
    • Untreated sleep apnea
    • Too many red blood cells
    Source
     

    Add Reply

Share This Page

<