Low testosterone, frequently referred to as “low t,” is a serous medical issue that affects millions of men in the United States. Though many people may not realize it, low t is not an uncommon condition. Low testosterone is, as the name suggests, a conspicuously-low level of testosterone in the male body (females can technically get low t but it is exceedingly rare). Doctors diagnose low t when a man has 300ng/dL (nanograms per deciliter) of total testosterone and less than 5 ng/dL of “free testosterone,” which is simply testosterone whose receptors are unattached. It is predicted that up to 13 million men in the U.S. have testosterone deficiency — and many of them may not know that they even have it. Though testosterone levels naturally decrease in men by age 30, unusually low testosterone, if left untreated, can be seriously hazardous to one’s health.
Low t can cause many symptoms including a lack of energy, decreased muscle mass, sexual dysfunction, increased body fat, anxiety, hair loss, and depression. In the long term, testosterone deficiency may even reduce life expectancy. If not properly treated, low t can reduce the general quality of life of those afflicted.
Fortunately, however, low t is perfectly treatable. Many doctors and clinics accept health insurance for these treatments and may also offer affordable payment plans and referrals. The most common treatment for testosterone deficiency is hormone replacement therapy, which is simply the process replacing the missing testosterone with synthetic hormones. The synthetic hormones are delivered through injections, pills, gels, and even pellets embedded under the skin! Regardless on how it’s administered, the treatment is highly effective and can restore the patient’s quality of life in a short period of time.
Low testosterone is a serious ailment but if caught relatively early and treated thereafter, it can be totally controllable with patients able to live a long, healthy life.
What do you think about low testosterone? Do you experience a lack of energy or notice decreased muscle strength? Feel free to leave a comment or question at the bottom. Refernce materials.
