Conditions and Treatments

What is hypogonadism or “low testosterone”?

It is the decrease or total absence of testosterone secretion, which is a hormone produced by the testicles, which fulfills multiple functions in the human body, from helping the development of male physical and sexual characteristics, to maintaining natural functions such as impulse sexual performance, semen production, and the bone and muscle health of the individual.

In the United States, approximately 4 to 5 million men suffer from this disease, of which only 5% receive adequate treatment. Age plays a very important role since as men get older, testosterone levels decrease.

What are the symptoms of low testosterone?

Symptoms vary depending on the severity of the deficiency, as well as the physical condition of the patient. These symptoms can include:

  • Tiredness, exhaustion, or lack of energy
  • Emotional changes (depression, irritability, low mood)
  • Low libido
  • Erectile dysfunction
  • Loss of muscle mass
  • Loss of bone density
  • Tendency to gain weight
  • Increased body fat stores and breast size

What are the causes of hypogonadism?

There are two types of hypogonadism, primary and secondary. Both have different causes.

  • Primary hypogonadism refers to the failure in the production of testosterone at the level of the testicles

o  Its causes include infectious diseases, cancer treatments, a history of inflammation from mumps (“mumps”), trauma to the testicles, and previous surgeries.

  • Secondary hypogonadism is caused by problems in the central axis (brain and / or pituitary gland) that controls the signals for the production of testosterone.

o  Its causes include infectious diseases, tumors, and use of certain medications.

Obesity also plays an important role in this disease, as fat can transform testosterone into estrogen, which is a feminizing hormone.

What are the benefits of treating low testosterone?

Most studies have shown that improving testosterone levels increases libido and sexual function in men. In addition, recovering normal hormonal levels help normalize mood, reduce lack of energy, and increase muscle and bone mass.

What are the treatments available?

The first recommended treatment is simple: improve diet, increase physical activity, lose weight (if you are overweight), and avoid alcohol and / or drug use.

In case of requiring hormone replacement, there are different methods such as testosterone gel, patches, intramuscular or subcutaneous injections, and subcutaneous beads (“pellets”).

Are there risks in receiving this type of treatment?

Like all medical treatment, there are potential side effects and risks associated with hormone replacement. That is why it is highly recommended that this type of treatment be performed only by specialized professionals, in order to obtain excellent care.

If you think you have any symptoms of low testosterone (hypogonadism), we are here to help you discreetly and confidentially.

Contact us today to make an appointment

Contact us today to arrange an appointment

You can also call us at 787-777-6690

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