Researchers originally developed Low T drugs to address the medical issue of low testosterone among men, defined as a testosterone level of less than 300 nanograms per deciliter. In the medical community, this condition is referred to as "hypogonadism." Men born with lower-than-normal testosterone levels have "primary hypogonadism," while men who develop Low T later in life have "secondary hypogonadism."
Causes of Low T
Men may develop low testosterone for a number of reasons. Some of the most common issues that can affect testosterone production include:
- Metabolic and hormonal issues - Problems with the signals that pass between the testes and the brain can lead to the limited production of testosterone.
- Defective testes - Since the testes are responsible for producing testosterone, defects in this organ can cause testosterone production to be lower than normal.
- Stage of life - Testosterone production naturally fluctuates during puberty and in male fetuses. In addition, testosterone production often decreases with age.
- Dietary issues - Poor nutrition and low body weight can sometimes lead to low testosterone levels.
- Living with a pregnant woman - Testosterone levels often change when a man is living with a pregnant woman.
- Stressful or exciting events - Certain high-energy events in a man's life can prompt changes in his testosterone levels. For example, when a man experiences a success, such as winning a game or watching his favorite team score, he may experience a temporary boost in testosterone. Conversely, perceived losses can cause testosterone levels to decrease.
- Genetic issues - Certain genetic conditions, including Kallmann's syndrome and Klinefelter's syndrome, may cause a man to develop Low T.
- Heavy metal toxicity - The accumulation of certain metals in body tissues may lead to low testosterone.
- Chemotherapy - Following chemotherapy treatments, some men develop Low T.
Some other health problems also correlate with Low T. Specifically; men are more likely to develop secondary hypogonadism if they also suffer from COPD, cardiovascular issues, asthma, hypertension, high cholesterol levels, Type-2 diabetes and/or obesity. However, testosterone production mechanisms within the body are complex, and researchers still struggle to understand the specific etiologies of these conditions.
While it is possible that the existence of one of these conditions can contribute to the development of Low T directly, it is also possible that a third underlying issue causes both conditions to occur. For example, a man with high cholesterol might:
- Develop Low T as a direct result of high cholesterol OR
- Develop both Low T and high cholesterol because of other underlying issues, such as poor nutrition and lack of exercise.
Symptoms of Low T
When a man develops Low T, he may present with one or more of the following symptoms:
- Changes in body composition
- Loss of muscle mass
- Decreased energy
- Erectile dysfunction
- Loss of libido
- Loss of body hair
- Fluctuating hormone levels
- Mood changes
- Changes in certain metabolic markers
As a result of these symptoms, many men with Low T seek medical treatment.
In our next blog we will talk about the treatments offered for Low T and how some of these treatments led to harm the men they intended to treat.
This blog does not constitute medical or legal advice.
If you believe you may be experiencing symptoms related to the use of Low T drugs, talk to your doctor about your symptoms as soon as possible.
For more information regarding the use of Low T drugs, please visit www.usacivialaction.com and download a copy of our free E-book, The Fall of Testosterone: How a Vaunted “Low T” Therapy Has Backfired and Put Millions of Men at Risk for Heart Problems and Stroke. If you would like to explore the possibility of bringing legal action to obtain compensation for medical problems, deaths or other issues related to Low T medications, please contact the experienced attorneys at Marc Whitehead & Associates, LLP at (855)-423-3666 to discuss your options.