About this topic
A low testosterone level in men or boys causes hypogonadism. Testosterone is a hormone made by the testicles. Testosterone helps to: ‚
- Control male features like hair on the face, bigger muscles, and a deep voice
- Form male genital organs
- Keep up a mans sex drive
- Make sperm
There are two types of hypogonadism. ‚
- Problems with the testes, which is primary hypogonadism.
- Problems with the glands that control how much testosterone is made, which is secondary hypogonadism.
What are the causes?
Hormone levels will most often drop as a man gets older. Hormone levels may also drop with alcohol use. Some drugs can cause hormone levels to be lower. ‚
Primary hypogonadism may be caused by: ‚
- A specific genetic defect which can cause abnormal growth of the testicles.
- Mumps infection
- When the testicles do not come down at or after birth
- Chemo or radiation that harms the testicles
Secondary hypogonadism may be caused by: ‚
- Problems with the hormones that control puberty
- Very severe infection
- Being obese
What are the main signs?
- Very small testicles and penis
- Low muscle strength
- Delayed puberty and signs like the voice does not become deeper, or less body and face hair
- Enlarged breasts
- Problems with sex like trouble getting or keeping an erection, loss of sex drive or interest in sex
- Problems getting a woman pregnant
- Low mood
- Loss of energy or feeling tired
- Problems concentrating
How does the doctor diagnose this health problem?
The doctor will take your history and do an exam. Your doctor may check: ‚
- If sexual growth is normal for your age
- Your body mass index to see how much body fat you have
- Your body hair
- Muscle mass
- Size of your testicles and penis
- Size of your breasts
The doctor may order: ‚
- Lab tests
- Semen analysis to check how much sperm you make
- Ultrasound
- Prostate-specific antigen or PSA test to look for prostate cancer
- CT or MRI scan
How does the doctor treat this health problem?
Your doctor will treat you based on the cause. The doctor may give you testosterone replacement therapy. ‚
Are there other health problems to treat?
If you have a problem with the pituitary gland in your brain, you may need other treatment. ‚
What lifestyle changes are needed?
Exercise regularly. Talk to your doctor about lifting weights. Exercise may help raise your testosterone levels. ‚
What drugs may be needed?
The doctor may order drugs to: ‚
- Help with sex drive and erections
- Increase muscle mass and strength
- Increase bone mass
- Make more sperm
Will there be any other care needed?
Your doctor may ask you to make visits to the office to check on your progress. Be sure to keep your visits. ‚
Helpful tips
Consider joining a support group. Support can help you deal with emotional problems. ‚
Where can I learn more?
American Urological Association Foundation ‚
http://www.urologyhealth.org/urology/index.cfm?article=132 ‚
European Association of Urology ‚
http://www.uroweb.org/gls/pockets/english/15_Male_Hypogonadism.pdf ‚
Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer
This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care providers advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you. ‚
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Copyright ‚ © 2015 Clinical Drug Information, LLC and Lexi-Comp, Inc. ‚