Hormones Archives -

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September 17, 2021

By Sisselman Medical Group 0 Comments Uncategorized Hormones, Low T, Testosterone, Testosterone Therapy

Men, Here are 10 Signs and Signals You May Have Low Testosterone

Testosterone is the primary male sex hormone in charge of regulating fertility, producing red blood cells, and distributing fat. The hormone is produced by the testicles and influences various processes in the body, including sperm production, sex drive, and sexual development.

Although women produce low levels of testosterone, low levels in men can result in reduced bone mass, erectile dysfunction, and weakened sex drive. According to the Food and Drug Administration, a normal range for testosterone is generally 300 to 1,000 nanograms per deciliter (ng/dL). Only a doctor can provide a low T diagnosis. Physicians typically diagnose low T when levels of the hormone drop below 300 ng/dL, but often men are alerted by the subtle, but sometimes dramatic effects of low testosterone.

1. Erectile Dysfunction

One of testosterone’s functions is to stimulate the sex drive in males. The hormone incites penile tissue to generate nitric oxide, which is the molecule responsible for activating the reactions that cause erections. Low testosterone can impact a man’s ability to have an erection before engaging in sex, as well as may cause spontaneous erections to occur.

Research regarding the efficacy of testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) as a treatment for erectile dysfunction is inconclusive. However, the hormone is not the only factor that contributes to erectile issues. Other health problems, such as high blood pressure, depression, and diabetes may also contribute to erectile dysfunction.

2. Reduced Semen Production

Testosterone is also in charge of stimulating semen production. Semen is the fluid responsible for guiding sperm cells to eggs. Low semen production can suggest low testosterone and, if left untreated, can cause fertility issues.

3. Low Sex Drive

Men with low-T may often experience a reduced sex drive. Testosterone is a critical component of the male libido. Although a reduced sex drive is a symptom that commonly occurs with age, a drastic drop in the desire to have sex is common for individuals with low T.

4. Increased Body Fat

Someone with low-T may also experience an increase in body fat. Gynecomastia, a condition that causes large breasts to develop, is a particular sign that a man may have low testosterone. An imbalance of testosterone and estrogen is theorized as the cause of the condition.

5. Decreased Muscle Mass

Testosterone is partially responsible for building muscle. Therefore, someone with low T may experience substantially reduced muscle mass. Although the hormone affects muscle mass, research suggests that it does not impact muscle strength or function.

6. Reduced Testicle Size

Low levels of testosterone can help cause smaller testicles. The body needs testosterone for the development of both the penis and testicles. Low-T levels could, therefore, add to excessively small-sized penis or testicles compared to someone with normal levels. Low-T may also cause the scrotum to feel softer than normal.

7. Reduced Bone Mass

Osteoporosis is a condition in which bone mass progressively becomes thinner. Although osteoporosis is usually connected to women, men with low T are susceptible to developing the condition as well. Individuals with osteoporosis are at an increased risk of breaking or fracturing bones.

8. Hair Loss

Hair loss is commonly experienced by men and women as a natural part of the aging process. Testosterone contributes to hair production, so a loss of facial or body hair could be a sign of low T.

Researchers from a study conducted in 2012 found that TRT supported some hair regrowth in women who were also receiving treatment for sex hormone deficiencies.

9. Fatigue

Having low testosterone may severely impact energy levels, resulting in persistent fatigue. Men with low T report feeling extremely tired – despite having a full night’s sleep – as well as having trouble becoming motivated to exercise.

10. Mood Swings

Testosterone contributes to several physical body processes, including the processes that affect mood and mental capability. Research has found a link between men with low T and mood changes, such as depression, inability to focus, and irritability.

When to See a Doctor

Symptoms of low testosterone are often subtle, and some only learn about the condition after routine exams. However, experts suggest that individuals who experience one or more of these symptoms should seek help from a doctor. More and more men are taking advantage of online support groups, as well as specialized hormone therapy clinics.

A doctor typically completes a physical examination to evaluate symptoms and may order additional testing to confirm whether any treatment is needed.

Treatment

Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) is the most common treatment for low T. After confirming the diagnosis, physicians generally write TRT prescriptions when an individual has multiple symptoms, and blood test results indicate that there is a hormone deficiency.

Prescriptions can be written for several different delivery methods, including:

Dissolvable tablets
Injections
Skin patches
Surgical implants
Gels

Injections are one of the more commonly prescribed forms of TRT and are typically administered by a doctor. They require fewer doses than other prescription methods. Regardless of the delivery method used, symptoms typically begin to disappear within 4 to 6 weeks of beginning therapy.

Some over the counter treatments include natural supplements that can help raise hormone levels. These supplements work by targeting specific processes to increase testosterone or preventing the hormone from converting into estrogen. Some of the best over the counter supplements include vitamin D, Fenugreek, and ginger. However, it’s important to be aware of common supplements that have a negative impact on men.

Takeaway

Low T commonly occurs in men, especially as they age. When hormone levels drop too much, undesired symptoms can occur. Many treatments are available, but a physician needs to confirm a diagnosis before a treatment can be prescribed. It is important to be aware of any other underlying conditions that may contribute to the symptoms that an individual is experiencing. Identifying all causes of low T is crucial in effectively treating unwarranted symptoms.

Each person is unique and therefore they will respond to treatment differently. Routine lab tests every 6 to 12 months are important in ensuring that hormone levels do not only return to normal but also stay normal. Checkups help evaluate symptoms, identify root causes for those symptoms, and draft treatment plans to address those symptoms.

Common Hormonal Imbalances and What to be Aware Of

May 2, 2019

By Sisselman Medical Group 0 Comments Health Hormones

Common Hormonal Imbalances and What to be Aware Of

Hormones are perhaps the most powerful messengers in the human body. We can think of them as being like a good WiFi connection or the send button on an email message. They play an important role in our bodies and relay vital warnings when something is not right or has malfunctioned by communicating various messages throughout our bodies. In short, they make sure everything is functioning properly and let us know when something has gone wrong.

Hormones are produced from our endocrine glands — the thyroid, adrenals, ovaries or testes, and the pancreas. A variety of things can represent a challenge to our endocrine systems, resulting in a hormonal imbalance. The longer our endocrine system is out of balance, the more challenging it can be to restore harmony and proper functioning.

Seven Symptoms of Hormonal Imbalance

How do you recognize the signs of hormonal imbalance? They will send you messages that something is out of whack. Sometimes these messages are loud and clear, but other times they may just be a subtle whisper. Learn how to recognize seven of the most common signals that something just isn’t right. While basic hormonal issues can often time be treated naturally or through changes in diet, other more serious issues will need the advice of your physician. If you feel that you may be suffering from a serious change in your body due to hormones, contact us today to schedule your appointment.

1. Fatigue

Everyone experiences a sense of fatigue once in awhile, but a simple nap, proper hydration, and healthy eating habits should put you back on track. However, if you feel you have been properly taking care of yourself by eating well, getting enough sleep, and drinking plenty of water, but you are still exhausted, your hormones may be sending you a sign. Hypothyroidism and adrenal fatigue are more common in our society than we are often led to believe. You might want to think about having an evaluation of your hormone levels performed.

2. Anxiety

Contrary to what you may have been told, your anxiety is not all in your head. We all get stressed out sometimes by even some of the seemingly most simple things. An excess of adrenal stimulation can result in an even greater sense of anxiety. This stimulation of the adrenal glands is generally caused by the stress we subject ourselves to. It is an endless cycle in today’s stress fully fast-paced world. If you have experienced an unusual amount of anxiety recently, your adrenal glands may be letting you know something.

3. Weight gain or fluctuation

Have you been struggling with weight fluctuations or gaining an unusual amount of late recently? If there is not a logical explanation for this gain, your cortisol levels may be up. There could be a more serious issue at hand, such as Hypothyroidism.

4. Insomnia

A variety of things can cause us to lose sleep, but if it has become a persistent thing, your insomnia may be caused by a hormonal imbalanced. Known as a sleep chemical, Melatonin is released by the pineal gland located in the brain. When this gland is affected by other hormonal glands in the body, it can cause an imbalance of the amount of Melatonin that is released. If you have been experiencing insomnia without a logical explanation, your hormones may be sending signs and alerting you to have it checked out.

5. Irritable Bowel Syndrome

It may be surprising to learn that a larger number of neurotransmitters are present in the gut than in the brain. It is no surprise, however, that we often develop gut symptoms when we experience anxiety, stress, depression, and other related conditions. Hormones have an influence on gut function in a number of ways. One effect is through the microbiome, or the bacteria system, in the intestines. Imbalanced hormones can also lead to an imbalance in the microbiome, influencing the number and function of bacterial colonies in our bodies. Gastrointestinal problems, such as Irritable Bowel Syndrome, may develop. If you are experiencing any stomach or bowel problems, it may be more than just a gut feeling.

6. Changes in skin and hair

The vitality of our hair and skin is directly affected by our hormonal glands. If you have suddenly been experiencing dry skin or hair, brittle nails, hair loss, or thinning hair, your hormones may be sending you a message to visit your doctor. While it may indicate nothing more than a need to drink more water change your hair products, there could be a much more serious underlying problem, such as thyroid abnormalities.

7. Low sex drive or dysfunction

Men and women both experience various changes in their bodies on a fairly consistent basis as a result of hormones, such as testosterone, estrogen, DHEA, and progesterone. While many of these changes are quite normal, it is always a good idea to have anything unusual checked out by a medical professional. Sexual dysfunction or loss of desire may also be the result of an imbalance in estrogen, progesterone, or testosterone levels. Your physician or a hormone therapy clinic will be able to assess your current hormone levels and offer the best advice for your body’s specific needs.

To schedule an appointment with one of our physicians to speak with one of our physicians regarding your hormone questions, contact us today.

foods that increase testosterone naturally

March 20, 2019

By Sisselman Medical Group 0 Comments Health Hormones, Men's Health, Testosterone

5 Foods to Give You a Natural Boost in Testosterone

In today’s modern age, where medicine advances day after day, it’s common for us to rely on a pill to help fight a disease or ailment. However, in many cases, many ailments and issues can be fought with everyday changes to your diet and overall wellness.

Take testosterone for example. Testosterone, a hormone found in both men and women, plays a key role in our bodies. For men, the role is huge, and is responsible for sexual wellness, hair growth, energy, muscle mass and growth, and more. Most men will see a decline in testosterone as they age, but this is completely normal. While testosterone levels are likely to drop by 1-2% as we get in older, there are some common ways to fight this natural decline. While this decline is normal, it’s often confused with male andropause, commonly referred to as male menopause.

However, declines in production of testosterone can sometimes be managed naturally by adapting to a healthy lifestyle. By making more informed decisions on what you put in your body on a daily basis can mean a world of a difference in the way you feel, and how your body responds physically

Foods that Boost Testosterone

Ginger

Ginger is a popular tuber that has been used for ages for many medical and culinary purposes. It’s believed that the root has nutritional value that can naturally elevate fertility in men. Even if it may have a strong bitter taste, ginger is best chewed raw due to the fresh release of enzymes. According to a study carried out in 2012, ginger was seen to naturally raise testosterone levels by 17.7% in men that were diagnosed with fertility issues. The study also showed that ginger was a natural ailment that can be used to improve sperm health. In 2013, a diabetic rat model was put to the test, and it was recorded to have improved in testosterone and antioxidant levels.

Grapes

Grapes are considered to be vitamin-infused berries that are good for your general heath. On top of that, they can greatly boost testosterone levels in the body. Scientifically, the skin of grapes contains resveratrol which is great for sperm health. Chinese researchers have discovered that it takes 5-10g of grape skins to improve the sperm’s ability to swim and raise testosterone levels. In addition, red grapes contain boron which helps to encourage the production of estrogen and testosterone.

Tuna

The smell of tuna may not be the best food for a first date, but it’s very important when it comes to male health. This fish contains natural vitamins that are ideal for testosterone improvement. The vitamins are able to bolster testosterone levels by up to 90%. This was identified during a study carried out at Graz Medical University, Austria, and further mentioned that a can contains 100% of RDA found in men.

Beetroot

Beets are well known for their distinct red color that can stain heavily. They also have boron which is essential for the production of testosterone and also increases levels of free testosterone. A daily boron intake of 10g for at least six days is enough to elevate free testosterone levels. Furthermore, it will also help decrease biomarkers that cause inflammation, and also estradiol. Beetroot is also known to increase nitric oxide which increases blood flow to the penis by dilating blood vessels. This means that they work just the same as ED drugs, but only more natural.

Garlic

Garlic may have a pungent taste and smell. However, it contains a compound named allicin that helps reduce the stress hormone cortisol. The thing about cortisol is that it competes with testosterone for similar sites within the cells of the muscles. Therefore, the lower your cortisol levels, the higher your T-levels.

Conclusion

Before scheduling that appointment with your physician for a newly marketed prescription drug, take a proactive approach to your diet and wellness and see if it results in positive changes. Monitor your intake of specific foods and vitamins, and see if these simple adjustments help improve your well being. Of course, if you feel as though your natural decrease in testosterone may be the result of a more serious underlying issue, discuss the issues with your physician or hormone therapy clinic. Testosterone therapy, a physician prescribed hormone treatment program, may help in some instances where changes in diet and exercise are not a benefit. For more information on the different types of hormone therapy, speak with your physician today.

Tag: Hormones