Low Testosterone (Hypogonadism or Andropause) affects over 39 percent of all men aged 45 and above. The chances that a person has testosterone deficiency increases with age, and according to recent medical research, the incidences of hypogonadism are around 20 percent in men over 60, 30 percent in men over 70, and 50 percent in men over 80.
Low quantities of testosterone are primarily linked to aging. In fact, it is because of the aging factor that low testosterone level in men is known as andropause. However, diseases of body glands that directly or indirectly help in the production and control of testosterone also lead to low levels. For instance, medical conditions that impair the pituitary glands and the hypothalamus, such as autoimmune diseases, inflammation, and cancer, are leading causes of low testosterone. Damages to the testes occasioned by accidents, testicular inflammation, and testicular cancer may cause testosterone deficiency. Moreover, urologists include obesity, diabetes type II, hormonal disorders, infections, and chronic medical disorders such as kidney or liver disease, as possible causes of low testosterone.
Chemotherapy or radiation therapy for testicular cancer has been recognized as one of the causes of the condition. Anabolic steroids and morphine are examples of drugs that cause reduced levels of testosterone. Testosterone deficiency is also caused by certain genetic disorders. For example, chromosomal abnormalities such as myotonic dystrophy results in testicular failure for individuals between ages 30 and 40, resulting in low testosterone.
At a urology clinic, doctors will usually prefer hormone replacement therapy to other forms of treatment for the condition. Testosterone replacement involves giving the body more of the hormone to make up for what is lost. Replacement therapy typically increases sex drive, frequency of erections, maintenance of male traits (such as beards), and increases bone density and muscle mass. In addition, testosterone replacement relieves patients of the fatigue, anxiety and depression associated with the condition. For more information on testosterone related disorders, therapies and consultations, visit St Pete Urology.
St Pete Urology is a team of medical professionals who specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of urological diseases and conditions. We offer quality care with compassion. For an appointment, call us at (727) 4
