Top 5 Causes for Decreased Testosterone Levels
A subcategory of the steroid hormone, testosterone or more commonly referred to as testosterone is commonly found in the male species. However, it is also found in female species but in much fewer quantities. Just as estrogen is needed by females for normal body functions relating to their sexual characteristics, maintaining the right levels of testosterone is also important for men.
Testosterone basically defines the physical attributes of men. From the muscular form to the change in voices, this hormone plays a big part in their transformation during the puberty stage. In women, having increased levels of testosterone can also alter their features. Some women can manifest male characteristics such as a protruded Adam’s apple, unusual appearance of facial hair, and so on
Low levels of testosterone can affect a man’s physical condition leading to their ability to reproduce. Their appetites, energy levels, and zest for life arrive at such low points that they gradually go into depression. Another side effect to low testosterone levels is the occurrence of osteoporosis. To remedy the deficiency, hormonal replacement therapy involving testosterone is already being prescribed. It addresses the debilitating effects of such deficiency and strives to bring normalcy to the male’s bodily functions
Testosterone Replacement Therapy becomes an option when testosterone levels are down. This is caused by one or more of the following conditions:
Stress
Whether it is at work or at home, stress is a daily part of human existence. When it bears down too much on a man’s abilities, it can severely affect the production of hormones. In more indirect ways, nutritional deficiencies are also encountered.
Trauma to the testes
Any physical injury inflicted in this area can be a factor in its underproduction of testosterone. Being hit in the groin, whether accidentally or not, will cause more than just severe pain. It will also affect hormonal production.
Medications
If you are taking medications for a short term or on a prolonged period, your ability to produce testosterone can be inhibited. This also goes for the occurrence of chronic diseases because you will need to regularly take medicines to treat them.
Genetic abnormalities
It is more of a congenital disorder. There could be underdevelopment of body organs including the glands that produce the hormones.