Table of ContentsIntroductionCauses and Symptoms of Low Testosterone Adverse Changes in Blood Lipid ProfileIntroductionTestosterone is a hormone that gives men their characteristic deep voice, large muscles and their facial and body hair, distinguishing them from women. During puberty, testosterone stimulates the growth of the genitals, plays a role in sperm production, fuels libido and contributes to normal erections. Additionally, testosterone promotes red blood cell production, improves mood, and promotes cognition. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”? Get the original essay Causes and Symptoms of Low Testosterone As men age, their testosterone levels begin to decline, usually around their mid-40s. This heralds what is commonly called andropause, the male counterpart of menopause. Although a natural part of aging, the decline in testosterone production from the testicles may be more precipitous in some men than others. Excessive weight gain, stress, lack of exercise, and many medications also contribute to a man's ability to make testosterone, leading to even lower testosterone levels and leading to symptoms of andropause . Symptoms of androgen deficiency and low testosterone levels are used to make a diagnosis of hypogonadism ("hypo" meaning low functioning and "gonadism" referring to the testicles). Signs and symptoms may include: Low libido Irritability Depression Loss of muscle mass and strength Weight gain Metabolic syndrome Erectile dysfunction Sleep problems Osteoporosis Side effect changes in blood lipid profile Treatment is recommended for people with low testosterone levels in the blood (less than 300 ng/dl) and symptoms of low testosterone. Treatment is not recommended for men with prostate or breast cancer. A nodule on the prostate that can be felt during a DREa PSA greater than 3 ng/ml without further evaluation. A hematocrit greater than 50% or untreated thick, viscous blood. urinary tract symptoms heart failure class III or IV. Treatment of Andropause (Low Testosterone) Testosterone replacement therapy has the potential to significantly improve the quality of life for those who need it. Studies have shown that testosterone replacement therapy can provide a wide range of benefits to men with hypogonadism, including improved libido, mood, cognition, muscle mass, bone density and red blood cell production. What is the optimal form of testosterone for replacement therapy? ? The oldest form is injection, which we still use because it is inexpensive and because we reliably get good testosterone levels in almost everyone. The downside is that a man has to come in every few weeks to get vaccinated. A roller coaster effect can also occur when blood testosterone levels peak and then return to baseline. There are pills in the United States for testosterone supplementation, but their use is strongly discouraged because they cause significant liver toxicity. Keep in mind: this is just a sample. Get a personalized article from our expert writers now. Get.