Testosterone is the hormone associated with secondary male sex characteristics, such as strong muscles, facial hair, and a deep voice. Women have some natural testosterone but a lot of estrogen, whereas men have a lot of natural testosterone and a much lesser amount of estrogen. But as we get older, women lose estrogen and men lose testosterone.
When a man’s testosterone becomes reduced, this is called low-T (low testosterone). This can make a man have difficulty sleeping, have erectile dysfunction (ED), feel less motivated than before, and have more body fat and less muscle mass.
Fortunately, there are effective treatments available for low testosterone levels in men. Let’s talk about what happens to a man’s testosterone levels with age, and where you can go to get your testosterone back to normal levels again.
How Does Testosterone Work?
Your body produces testosterone mainly in your testicles. During puberty, this hormone causes your muscles to develop, your body hair to grow, and your voice to change. It also plays a major role in your sex drive and sperm production throughout your life.
Your hormone levels rise during puberty, but they start to drop at age 30 and continue to do so as you get older. In fact, your testosterone levels tend to decrease by 1% per year after age 30. Your testosterone levels will decrease the most after age 70.
What Causes Low-T?
Low levels of testosterone affect around 40% of men who are 45 and older. Some of the potential causes of low testosterone include the following:
· Metabolic disorders
· Certain medications
· Cirrhosis of the liver
· Kidney failure
· Sarcoidosis
· Diabetes
· Obstructive sleep apnea
· Obesity
· Extreme weight loss
· Alcohol abuse
· Previous anabolic steroid usage
· Traumatic injury or infection of your testicles
· Chemotherapy and/or radiation treatment
· Severe hypothyroidism
Sometimes, low testosterone is hereditary. You can have your testosterone levels tested and treated by an experienced urologist if you have symptoms of low testosterone, such as infertility, a decreased sex drive, or erectile dysfunction.
Skilled Urologist for Treating Low-T in Phoenix, AZ
If you are experiencing symptoms that seem to indicate low testosterone levels, schedule a consultation with Dr. Desi Avila. Dr. Avila is fellowship-trained in urology and has years of successful experience diagnosing and treating men who have ED, low-T, fertility issues, Peyronie’s disease, and prostate issues. If you do have low-T, he will explain your treatment options.
If you have any questions or would like to schedule an appointment with Dr. Avila, contact our friendly staff today by calling us at (480) 961-2323 or fill out our easy-to-use appointment request form online now. We have offices conveniently located in Gilbert and Phoenix. We look forward to being your healthcare partner.
