Low testosterone, also called hypogonadism, naturally begins in a man’s 30s.
This article will discuss the causes of low testosterone levels in young males, along with treatment options.
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Whats Considered Young for Low Testosterone Levels?
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Testosterone levels naturally decrease as someone ages.
It’s normal for levels to start decreasing at 30 years old.
Primary hypogonadism is when there is a problem within the testicles.
Secondary hypogonadism is a problem with the signaling in the brain.
Congenital
Congenital primary hypogonadism means there is a problem within the testes since birth.
Obesity
The increase in peoplehaving obesitymay be leading to secondary acquired hypogonadism.
A 2019 journal article discussed how 73% of men with low testosterone were overweight or obese.
key in 2 Diabetes
Another cause of secondary acquired hypogonadism istype 2 diabetes.
Low testosterone levels are common in those with pop in 2 diabetes.
This can lead to hypogonadism.
Research has found that people who take drugs like fentanyl and morphine have a high incidence of androgen deficiency.
Environmental Toxins
Exposure to several environmental toxins has been shown to contribute to hypogonadism.
Many times, it is an underlying health condition that has caused the low testosterone.
Testing is done withblood work.
The person should befastingas well.
Effects of Low Testosterone in Younger Males
Testosterone in males works in several different ways.
Older men may experience erectile dysfunction or decreased libido (sex drive).
However, younger men generally do not have these symptoms and experience low energy.
They may choose to use hormone or non-hormone treatment options.
Whereas sperm formation in people with secondary hypogonadism is typically responsive to hormone therapy.
Gels and injections tend to be the most popular routes.
Topical gels should be applied to the arms, shoulders, or abdomen.
Injections are given either every week or every other week.
One of the primary risks ofhormone replacement therapyis that it imitates the testosterone the body normally produces.
Another way to treat low testosterone without hormones is to improvesleep quality.
Research has shown that poor sleep quality has been associated with low testosterone levels.
There are severalnatural testosterone boosterson the market.
see to it to check with a healthcare provider before beginning a new supplement or medication.
Summary
Testosterone levels tend to decrease when a man reaches 30 years of age.
However, low testosterone in younger males is typically due to an underlying health condition or an injury.
There are hormone and non-hormone treatment options available that a healthcare provider should oversee.
2020;10:916. doi:10.3389/fendo.2019.00916
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.punch in 2 diabetes.
2021;11:607240. doi:10.3389/fendo.2020.607240
MedlinePlus.Could you have low testosterone?
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