Testosterone is an important hormone in males responsible for muscle strength, sex drive, and bone strength. As men get older, it is normal for their testosterone levels to drop. However, if the testosterone levels drop too low, men can have symptoms.
Data suggest that about 2 men in every 100 have low testosterone. As few as 1% of younger men have it, while as many as 50% of men over 80 years old may have low testosterone. Low testosterone is more common in men with diabetes and those who are overweight.
The American Urology Association (AUA) defines low blood testosterone as having less than 300 nanograms per deciliter (ng/dL). The symptoms that may be experienced with low testosterone are:
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Causes of Low Testosterone
Some men develop low testosterone due to:
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Men with HIV and AIDS tend to have low testosterone levels:
- HIV - 30 out of 100 men have low testosterone
- AIDS - 50 out of 100 men have low testosterone
Low Testosterone Treatments
- Lifestyle Changes - exercise and losing weight can have an effect on testosterone levels
- Diet - Consuming foods that are rich in Vitamin D and zinc
- Testosterone Replacement Therapy
- Testosterone Injections
- Testosterone Pellets
