Low Testosterone in Men: An Overview

Low Testosterone in Men

Aging often brings hidden challenges, and for men, declining testosterone levels can quietly erode physical vitality, emotional resilience, and mental sharpness. Yet, this common issue doesn’t have to define your health journey.

It’s estimated that 1 in 4 men over the age of 30 experience low testosterone levels, affecting approximately 13 million men in the United States. Despite its prevalence, many cases remain undiagnosed, leaving men unaware of the potential risks to their health and quality of life.

The effects of low testosterone in men extend beyond physical symptoms, impacting emotional well-being and overall health. Men with testosterone deficiency may experience reduced energy levels, a decline in muscle mass, and even an increased risk of chronic conditions like heart disease and diabetes.

These health concerns often stem from a condition known as male hypogonadism, which encompasses both primary hypogonadism and secondary causes of low testosterone.

Testosterone levels naturally decline in men as they age, often beginning in their 30s. This decline, commonly known as andropause, mirrors menopause in women, although the symptoms and progression differ. Andropause is characterized by a steady reduction in testosterone, leading to physical, cognitive, and emotional changes that can significantly affect quality of life.

This article explores the causes, symptoms, and health risks associated with low testosterone in men and provides an overview of treatment options, including testosterone replacement therapy and lifestyle modifications. By understanding the signs and risks, men can take proactive steps to restore their health and vitality.

What Is Andropause?

Testosterone is produced primarily in the testicles in men and plays a central role in a man’s appearance and sexual development. Testosterone stimulates sperm production, stimulates libido, and supports bone and muscle mass. Research has found that testosterone has a protective effect on a man’s health. Low levels of testosterone are associated with increased risk of chronic disease and all-cause mortality. Though testosterone is so vital to a man’s health and wellbeing, it is also a casualty in the process of aging.

When a man reaches his 30s, testosterone levels begin to decline, dropping by approximately 1 percent each year. The period of time when a man begins to experience symptoms of low testosterone—most often in his late 30s to early 40s—is also known as andropause. By the time a man is in his 70s he has only a fraction of the testosterone he had in his twenties, making him susceptible to heart disease, metabolic syndrome, and several other preventable chronic diseases.

Symptoms of Low Testosterone in Men

A decline in testosterone levels can manifest in various ways, affecting both the body and mind. Recognizing these symptoms is crucial, as they can significantly impact a man’s quality of life and may signal underlying health concerns. Blood tests are often required to confirm these symptoms.

Low Sex Drive
Difficultly Achieving or Maintaining an Erection
Low Semen Volume
Fatigue
Low Energy
Sleeplessness
Weight Gain
Muscle Mass Loss
Hair Loss
Bone Mass Loss
Irritability
Anxiety
Depression
Brain Fog
Difficulty Concentrating
Memory Loss

Ignoring low testosterone can lead to more than just daily inconveniences—it’s a gateway to chronic illnesses that can derail long-term health. Understanding these risks can encourage men to seek timely medical attention and prevent care.

Health Risks Associated with Low Testosterone in Men

Addressing low testosterone levels requires a combination of medical intervention and healthy lifestyle changes, including testosterone therapy, tailored to each individual’s needs. Effective treatment can restore vitality, alleviate symptoms, and reduce associated health risks.

Diabetes

Low testosterone increases insulin resistance. Insulin resistance is a key factor in the progression and diagnosis of type 2 diabetes. Research has shown that men with testosterone deficiency are at an increased risk of type 2 diabetes. Men who are treated with testosterone therapy and restore levels to optimal have a significantly lower risk of type 2 diabetes.
Metabolic Syndrome

Low total and free testosterone are associated with an increased risk of metabolic syndrome independent of age or current obesity. Men with low serum testosterone are more likely to accumulate abdominal fat and visceral fat—both markers of disease risk.
Heart Attack

There is a strong correlation between testosterone deficiency and poor cardiovascular outcomes. Testosterone plays a strong role in myocardial and vascular cell behavior. When levels are low, significant response elements are impaired. Research has shown that in men with all classes of heart failure, low testosterone was a common factor and predicted higher mortality rates.
High Blood Pressure

In 2021, researchers uncovered further evidence that low testosterone was a “promising risk marker for prevalent hypertension.” Older studies point to this outcome as well linking testosterone deficiency to increase cardiovascular risks and markers of cardiovascular disease. Articles published in peer-reviewed journals have also pointed to the number of men diagnosed with COVID-19 compared to women.

One article suggests that low testosterone may be a contributing factor to risk of the virus as well as poor outcomes in the event of diagnosis. While research is still in the early stages, the preliminary data is compelling.
Potential Link to COVID-19

Research by NIH suggests that men with low testosterone levels may face worse outcomes if diagnosed with COVID-19. While data is still being studied, low testosterone has been liked to compromise immune responses, potentially exacerbating viral effects.

Treatment Options for Low Testosterone in Men

Testosterone Gels / Creams

Creams and gels are preferred by some patients for their ease of application and are a well-known delivery method. However, it is important to know that the risk of transference is high—higher than any other delivery method.
Testosterone Injections

Injections are preferred by some patients because they may be administered at home and deliver a quick boost of testosterone after administration. However, injections also lead to great highs and lows during the treatment cycle, leaving patients facing uncomfortable symptoms between doses.
Testosterone Pellets

Pellet therapy is a method of delivery that dates back to the 1930s and offers both convenience and effective treatment. A tiny pellet, about the size of a grain of rice, is inserted under the skin and is slowly metabolized over 3 to 6 months, delivering a dose of testosterone that is vastly similar to the natural dosing cycle of the human body. There is no risk of transference, no worry about remembering to slather on a cream or take a pill, and the therapy is administered in even doses throughout the treatment cycle, avoiding significant highs and lows.

Regardless of the hormone therapy delivery method, men who are seeking to achieve optimal levels of testosterone should pair pharmaceutical grade supplements, a nutrient-rich diet, and routine exercise into their lifestyle.
Nutraceuticals

Your practitioner can help guide you on the best nutraceuticals to support hormone optimization. For example, vitamin D, magnesium, and zinc have been linked to promoting healthy testosterone levels. Supplementing a combination of nutrients is essential to promote increased uptake of testosterone as well as support natural improvements in hormone levels.
Nutrition

Research has shown that a higher-fat (and, of course, low sugar) diet can support healthy testosterone levels. A balanced meal might contain fatty fish, like salmon with dark leafy greens, including spinach and kale. Dark leafy greens have been associated with improvements in testosterone health. Avocados, eggs, and berries top the list of foods that support optimal testosterone levels.
Exercise

Physical activity of any kind is beneficial to better health, but it is well-known that resistance training or weight-bearing exercises promote both long- and short-term boosts in testosterone. Experts recommend an afternoon pump session for the most effective boost in testosterone.

Testosterone Pellet Therapy For Men

Testosterone pellets are tiny implants, about the size of a grain of rice, inserted under the skin, typically in the hip area. These pellets release testosterone slowly and steadily over 3 to 6 months, ensuring a consistent hormone supply.

This delivery system closely mimics the body’s natural hormone secretion, helping to control hormone production while avoiding the peaks and troughs often associated with other forms of testosterone replacement therapy.

The procedure for pellet insertion is simple and minimally invasive. During a short office visit, the practitioner makes a small incision, inserts the pellet, and seals the area with medical tape. Once inserted, the body metabolizes the pellet at a controlled rate, providing optimal testosterone levels without the need for frequent dosing.

Why Choose Pellets?

Ease of Use: Unlike daily gels or weekly injections, testosterone pellets require minimal maintenance, freeing patients from the hassle of remembering frequent applications.
Consistent Hormone Levels: The slow-release mechanism ensures stable testosterone levels, reducing the dramatic fluctuations that can occur with other treatments.
Minimal Side Effects: This method eliminates the risk of skin irritation or accidental transference, which are common concerns with testosterone gel or creams.

The Science Behind Pellet Therapy

Research highlights the effectiveness and patient satisfaction of testosterone pellet therapy in maintaining optimal levels of testosterone compared to other methods.

A 2014 study published in The Journal of Sexual Medicine found that 70% of patients using subcutaneous testosterone pellets reported satisfaction with their treatment, surpassing satisfaction rates for injectable and gel-based therapies.

Another study in 2023 demonstrated even greater patient approval, with 90% of men using subcutaneous pellets expressing satisfaction with their regimen.

These findings underscore the reliability and appeal of pellet therapy for addressing low testosterone levels.

Additional Benefits

Beyond addressing low testosterone levels, pellet therapy offers additional health advantages:

Improved Cognitive Function: Men reported better focus, reduced brain fog, and enhanced memory.
Bone and Muscle Health: Increased bone density and muscle size help prevent age-related declines.
Mental Well-being: Relieved symptoms of depression and anxiety, contributing to an improved quality of life.
Chronic Disease Prevention: Maintaining optimal testosterone has been linked to reduced risks of chronic conditions such as heart disease and type 2 diabetes.

Addressing Low Testosterone in Men: A Key to Improved Health and Well-being

Addressing the increasing prevalence of low testosterone in men is vital for improving patient outcomes and overall satisfaction as a healthcare provider. By incorporating innovative solutions like testosterone pellet therapy, you can offer tailored treatments that enhance your patients’ energy levels, mental clarity, and quality of life.

EVEXIAS Health Solutions empowers you with the necessary training tools and resources to implement testosterone replacement therapy effectively. Their comprehensive programs ensure you can confidently expand your practice and meet the growing demand for cutting-edge health solutions.

Staying competitive in today’s healthcare landscape requires adopting advanced, evidence-based therapies that address the root causes of testosterone deficiency. Partnering with EVEXIAS Health Solutions provides access to innovative training programs and nutraceutical support, equipping you to provide the best patient care.