About Hormones Men Effects of low T
Effects of a Low Testosterone Level
Before we even test your testosterone levels, the obvious question to ask when first exploring the decision to start testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) is: “Are there detrimental effects to having low testosterone levels?” There is a definitive answer for this question. It is standard practice to treat a low testosterone level, known as the disease state called ‘hypogonadism’. We treat it because the damaging long-term effects of untreated hypogonadism are well-documented. Many organ systems are affected by hypogonadism:
First, it decreases your lean muscle mass, strength, and bone density. Older men who are stooped over and who have difficulty holding up their heads are most likely suffering from osteoporosis that is a direct result of low testosterone levels.
Second, low testosterone levels do cause increased body fat. The fat builds specifically around the waist and is both subcutaneous and visceral. It adheres to your internal organs, like the intestines and liver, and is the cause of most “pot bellies.” Increased abdominal fat initiates a vicious cycle, because as it accumulates, it continues to suppress testosterone production which, again, causes more accumulation of abdominal fat.
Third, increased gut fat is not just physically unattractive. There is mounting evidence supporting the theory that accumulations of visceral fat cause many metabolic imbalances. Over time the imbalances greatly increase your risk of diabetes and cardiovascular disease.
Fourth, just as occurs with estrogen imbalances, testosterone strongly affects your brain as well as your body. There are numerous brain receptors for testosterone. When affected by hypogonadism people experience depression, decreased spatial memory and sense of well-being, as well as a predisposition toward social isolation, low libido, and assertiveness.
Fifth, although hypogonadism is not usually the main cause of impotence, low testosterone levels can increase vascular damage. That includes damage to blood vessels and nerves required to maintain your erections. However, about 5%-10% percent of impotence is directly linked to low testosterone levels. Decreased fullness of erections and extended length of time your body requires between ejaculations (called the ‘refractory period’) are affected by diminishing testosterone levels as you age. Many men experience alleviation of these mild symptoms with TRT.
Finally, low testosterone levels may affect a man’s ability to sustain normal red blood cell counts.
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