Decreased testosterone levels in men. Ways to normalize elevated testosterone levels in women. Causes of low testosterone

Testosterone is the main male sex hormone. It is produced predominantly in the testicles by Leydig cells. In a small amount - in the adrenal cortex.

Testosterone affects the development of male genital organs, regulates spermatogenesis and sexual behavior, and also participates in some parts of the metabolism. Low testosterone in men leads to decreased libido, erectile dysfunction, and mental disorders.

Causes of testosterone decline in men

There are several conditions that affect the production of testosterone in men. Possible reasons and risk factors are presented in the table.

Symptoms of low testosterone

Signs of low testosterone in men:

• Lack or decreased libido. Testosterone plays a key role in determining sexual behavior and sexual desire.
• Erectile disfunction. With low testosterone levels, it is difficult to achieve an erection and orgasm during sex. The frequency of spontaneous morning erections decreases.
• Decrease in semen volume. Lack of testosterone leads to inhibition of spermatogenesis.
• Unreasonable fatigue. Men with low testosterone concentrations are more likely to complain of a breakdown and lack of motivation for any activity.
• A loss muscle mass. The strength of the muscles does not suffer.
• Osteoporosis. share decline bone tissue increases the susceptibility to fractures.
• Increase in the proportion of adipose tissue. The development of gynecomastia is noted - an increase in the mammary glands. This phenomenon is explained by excessive production against the background of a decrease in testosterone.
• Metabolic disorders. Low testosterone levels are associated with the development of obesity and diabetes.
• Sleep disturbance. Men with low testosterone are more likely to complain about.
• Mood change. Decreased testosterone leads to irritability and depression.

Erectile dysfunction develops due to lack of testosterone, which is associated with insufficient blood supply to the penis. Violation of the inflow of arterial and outflow of venous blood indicates the onset of vascular pathology. At the same time, the vessels that feed the penis have a smaller lumen than coronary arteries feeding the heart. They react faster to the emerging pathology.

Erectile dysfunction is only the first symptom of vascular disorders. If you prevent the progression of the disease, you can not only return a man to a full sexual life, but also avoid the development of cardiac pathology (including myocardial infarction).

Symptoms of a decrease in testosterone are nonspecific and occur in other conditions. Reliably confirm the drop in the level of the hormone is possible only with the help of a blood test.

An additional laboratory status assessment for the determination of total testosterone is prescribed in conjunction with the measurement of SHBG concentration (thyroid pathology, obesity, cirrhosis, liver disease, age-related changes)

The norm of testosterone in men aged 18-55:

• Free testosterone - 1-28 pg / ml.
• Total testosterone - 9-42 nmol / l.

Treatment Methods

Non-drug methods to increase testosterone in men:

• Sleep normalization. Recovery of the body occurs in the phase of deep sleep. Superficial and intermittent sleep interferes with the adequate functioning of internal organs and the production of sex hormones. It is recommended to sleep 7-8 hours a day. The criterion for the normal duration of a night's sleep is good health after waking up.
• Balanced diet. The production of testosterone is promoted by foods rich in zinc, selenium and magnesium. Food should be balanced in terms of essential nutrients.
• Taking vitamins. G hormonal background is stabilized by vitamins B, C, D, E. Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids will benefit.
• Drinking mode. It is recommended to drink at least 1.5 liters of water per day. With intense physical activity, the volume of fluid increases.
• Rejection bad habits. It is recommended to quit smoking. You should reduce the proportion of alcoholic beverages or stop drinking alcohol. Drug use is excluded.
• Weight normalization. A decrease in the proportion of adipose tissue leads to a decrease in the proportion of estrogen and an increase in testosterone levels.
• Physical activity. Increase testosterone training gym including weight-bearing exercises. Training should be regular. Walking and sprinting will also benefit. It is important to avoid overload - physical exhaustion negatively affects the hormonal balance of the body.
• sexual activity. Flirting and intimacy lead to an increase in testosterone.
• Limiting stressful situations. With prolonged or repeated stress, production increases, which leads to a decrease in testosterone. Good mood promotes testosterone production.
• Sunbathing. Sun exposure increases vitamin D synthesis and increases testosterone levels.
• hardening. Dousing with water leads to a short-term increase in testosterone and has a beneficial effect on the functioning of the body.

Drug therapy involves taking hormonal drugs that can compensate for the lack of testosterone. Injectable, oral and transdermal forms of preparations are used. The dosage and duration of administration are determined by the course of the pathology.

Hormone replacement therapy is prescribed only by an andrologist after a complete examination and establishment of an accurate diagnosis. Uncontrolled reception hormonal drugs threatens to disrupt the production of its own testosterone and the development of dangerous complications.

Testosterone is a steroid or "male" hormone that belongs to the anabolic androgenic group. Physical strength depends on its level in the blood. The work of many organs is also associated with the content of this hormone and its activity. Even on mental and emotional condition affected by testosterone. Its deficiency has serious consequences. To eliminate the existing deficit, some men have to radically change their lifestyle. Others need to take medication prescribed by a doctor.

What is testosterone?

It is a hormone that is produced in large quantities by the Leydig cells in the testicles of men. In a small amount, this substance is produced by the adrenal cortex. Among its main functions, doctors note the following:

• regulation of spermatogenesis;
• increase in sexual desire;
• influence on muscle growth;
• ensuring nitrogen and phosphorus metabolism in the body;
• development of secondary sexual characteristics.

Testosterone is of two types: biologically active and free. Its indicators throughout a person's life change. However, there are certain parameters according to which a full-fledged male health is determined at any age. The norm is considered to be a fluctuation in the range of 12-22 nmol / l.

Free testosterone has a greater effect on the body. He is responsible only for secondary sexual characteristics and attraction to the opposite sex. Its level also depends on age. IN healthy body in men under 50, the norm is 5-30 nmol / l. After 50 years - 5-19 nmol / l. Low levels of free testosterone in men (less than 5 nmol / l) is a reason to see a doctor.

It is worth noting that these indicators may vary depending on external factors and the conditions of the laboratory where the analysis was taken. For example, after intense exercise and before sexual intercourse, the level of testosterone in the blood usually increases. Its decrease sometimes indicates serious health problems that cannot be ignored. About the reasons low level testosterone levels in men will be discussed below.

The prevalence of pathology

With age, testosterone levels in the body gradually decrease. This state in medical practice known as "andropause".

For most representatives of the stronger sex, the so-called physiological decline begins at the age of 30-35 at a rate of 1-3% per year. This process stops after 50 years. Like hormonal disbalance can happen at any age. Today, physicians are especially concerned about the fact that androgen decline is already seen in young men. The rate of the process is up to 5% per year.

The development of andropause occurs gradually. Therefore, the first symptoms of low testosterone levels in men go unnoticed. If at this stage you consult a doctor and tell about the existing disorder, the situation can still be corrected. It is corrected by regular physical activity, proper nutrition and intake of vitamin and mineral complexes.

Reasons for the deficiency

All reasons for the development of andropause can be divided into three conditional groups: age, hereditary and the influence of external factors.

Age-related decline in testosterone is considered a natural process. If the failure happened before the age of 30-40, you should look for other reasons for it. Most often they are hidden in violation of the basic functions of the endocrine system.

Pathologies of the hypothalamus and pituitary gland, testicular dysfunction - these disorders affect the synthesis of testosterone. Usually they are characterized by congenital etiology. For example, many boys are born with testicular underdevelopment. The organ may be completely absent or have pronounced deviations. Sometimes the testicles are located outside the scrotum, which also causes a violation of their work.

Low testosterone levels in men may be due to external factors. Among them, the following deserve special attention:

1. Unhealthy lifestyle (alcohol abuse, smoking).
2. Low physical activity. Moderate load and strength exercises promote synthesis. Excessive activity affects the opposite way.
3. Deficiency of proteins, vitamins and minerals in the diet.
4. Sexual abstinence, the absence of a permanent sexual partner.
5. Frequent emotional upheavals. Stress contributes to the increased production of adrenaline, which inhibits the production of testosterone.
6. Overweight. Excess weight not only suppresses the production of androgens, but also stimulates the production of female sex hormones.
7. Taking certain drugs (analgesics, antidepressants, potency stimulants).

Certain diseases can also contribute to the development of andropause. These include hypertension, kidney pathology, increased bilirubin levels.

What does a man with low testosterone look like?

For a strong half of humanity, this hormone plays an important role in life. It affects the development of the genital organs, the level of libido and sexual performance. Testosterone is able to turn a man into a real superhero who can do anything. Social and physical activity, happy fatherhood, willpower and muscle power - all this depends on the content of this hormone in the blood.

A decrease in its indicators always indicates health problems. This hormone has a strong external effect on the body, its deficiency always manifests itself very clearly.

The main signs of low testosterone in men are:

1. Permanent or temporary lack of sexual desire.
2. Decreased number and quality of erections.
3. The appearance of depression, deterioration of mood for no apparent reason.
4. The development of gynecomastia, accompanied by abnormal growth of the mammary glands.
5. Lack of pleasure from sexual intercourse.
6. Increased urination, but the process itself becomes less pronounced.
7. Physical weakness.
8. Violation of cognitive functions (absent-mindedness, memory impairment).
9. Insomnia, constant fatigue.

In men, low testosterone levels negatively affect the quality of life. Therefore, you should not hesitate to seek medical help. At the first symptoms of the disorder, you should consult a doctor and follow his recommendations.

Diagnostic methods

If you suspect a hormonal imbalance, you will need to undergo a comprehensive examination. It begins with studying the complaints of a potential patient. A qualified endocrinologist in most cases understands the preliminary diagnosis after studying the clinical picture. However, symptoms alone are not enough to prescribe proper treatment. Therefore, the patient is prescribed blood and urine tests. Additionally, a bone examination may be required, since low testosterone levels in men are often accompanied by osteopathy.

Blood sampling is carried out in the morning. At this time, the indicators of the hormonal background are most consistent with the real picture of general well-being. A day before the examination, it is recommended to abandon excessive physical activity and sexual intercourse.

Treatment at home

Timely detected low testosterone levels in men can be raised naturally. If the changes are minor, it may be enough to follow a diet for some time, limit alcohol consumption and smoking.

The diet is recommended to diversify with seafood (shrimp, mussels, squid, seaweed). Avoid animal fats. They can be replaced with vegetable. In large quantities, they are found in pistachios, hazelnuts and other types of nuts. In general, such a diet is based on the principles of proper nutrition, when all junk food is banned. Lean varieties of fish, vegetables and fruits, cereals should be present in the diet daily.

You can increase testosterone with moderate sports activity. Some men like running, others prefer to spend their free time in the gym. As for the latter, it is better to work with a trainer and try not to overload the body.

Taking medications

Medical treatment for low testosterone levels in men is prescribed by a doctor. Medications are usually used when the disorder is advanced. They contain the hormone testosterone itself. Among these medicines, the most effective are: "Nebido", "Androgel", "Andriol", "Omnadren". They go on sale both in the form of tablets and capsules, and in the form of a solution for injection.

"Vitrix", "Tribulus", "Evo-Test" are also used in the treatment of andropause. However, they do not contain testosterone, but the action is aimed at activating the natural production of the hormone.

The duration of such therapy, as well as the dosage of drugs, is determined by the doctor. Usually, after 2-3 weeks of treatment, the patient is asked to retake tests. Based on their results, one can judge the dynamics of recovery, and, if necessary, adjust the dosage of drugs. In some cases, the presented medicines are prescribed for life.

Consequence of hormonal disorders

The symptoms presented just above show how dangerous the consequences of low testosterone levels in men can be. The lack of adequate treatment always leads to a decrease in the quality of human life. Over time, he develops arterial hypertension, osteoporosis is not excluded. Many representatives of the stronger sex have to hear the diagnosis of "infertility".

When a hormonal disorder begins its development even in the prenatal period, there is an incorrect formation of the genital organs. In some children, the genitals are formed according to the female pattern.

Prevention methods

To restore hormonal balance, doctors advise you to reconsider your lifestyle. Dosed physical activity, proper nutrition, the absence of addictions - all this allows you to normalize the state of the body. A good night's rest will also help.

Testosterone is the main male hormone that is present in both male and female bodies. The normal sexual development of a person, as well as his healthy sexual desire, depends on the hormone testosterone.

A low testosterone level in the blood may be due to some physiological factors, these include: the age of a person, the presence of chronic and other diseases of the body. Also, factors are external, they include the way of life of a person and his diet. A decrease in the level of the hormone testosterone in the blood appears as a result of poor nutrition, which in turn negatively affects the human body.

Testosterone lowering foods

There are some types of foods that have the ability to reduce the level of the testosterone hormone in a person's blood. Such products should be included in the diet in minimal quantities, and some groups should be completely excluded from your menu.

Sucrose (sugar)

A large percentage of sugar is found in food: sweet preservation (jam, marmalade, jam), sweet pastries (cakes, cookies, etc.), sweets (sweets, chocolates, etc.), various sauces and mayonnaises, sweet drinks , ketchup and other sugar-containing products.

With a moderate amount of sugar consumed in food, you can significantly improve the overall well-being and health of a man, as well as maintain a normal level of testosterone hormone in the blood. During the use of foods rich in blood sugar, the level of insulin rises, which is released when simple carbohydrates enter the body. The pancreas is unable to cope with an excess of sugar in the blood, as a result of which insulin reduces the production and preservation of the testosterone hormone in the body.

It is important to note that sugary foods increase the production of the hormone cortisol, which undermines the normal functioning and production of sex hormones in both women and men. As a rule, such a “violation” in the work of the hormonal background worsens general state person.

Foods high in sugar not only lower testosterone levels, but also add extra calories that the body has a hard time coping with.

It is almost impossible to exclude sugar from the nutrition menu, but you can reduce its amount in the diet. The best sugar for the body is vegetables and fruits.

Salt

Salt is a natural mineral that is widely used in Food Industry. Salt is found in large quantities: in various types of edible salt, in fast food dishes, all types of semi-finished products, preservation, all types of mayonnaises, sauces and ketchups, smoked products and more.

The average person consumes twice as much salt as the human body needs to function normally.

Excess salt in the body negatively affects the production of testosterone, this is due to the fact that salt retains fluid in the human body, as a result of which the heart exerts an excessive load in order to cope with excess fluid. Such a process of work can lead to the fact that the pressure in the human body rises, from which, in turn, the heart muscle is overstrained. All these factors disrupt blood circulation, as a result of which the production of testosterone hormone decreases, and these processes also negatively affect erection.

Some men find it hard to give up salt, because food cooked without salt does not taste as good as dishes seasoned with salt.

An interesting fact: over time, taste buds get used to the minimum amount or complete absence of salt in food. In order for the taste of food, without salt, to be saturated, men are advised to add various spices (pepper and others) to dishes. Spices have a positive effect on blood pressure and human health (in normal amounts).

Caffeine

Caffeine is found in carbonated drinks, various teas, coffee, chocolate, and energy drinks. Caffeine fills the body with vivacity, energy and a surge of strength, but these qualities are not entirely beneficial for the body of a man. This is due to the fact that when caffeine enters the bloodstream, the brain is “deceived”. How does this happen? Drinks and foods containing caffeine increase the production of adrenaline, as a result of which a person feels a surge of activity. At the same time, an increase in the level of adrenaline negatively affects the production of the hormone testosterone. Also, caffeine tends to enhance the diuretic effect, thus actively dehydrating the entire body. Such a failure in the body has a bad effect on the male hormonal background and reduces the production of testosterone.

It’s hard to give up caffeine, but it’s important to understand that excessive consumption of products that reduce testosterone production can have negative consequences not only in the sexual sphere, but also for overall male well-being.

Alcohol

Alcohol has two sides of the coin: the minimum dose of alcohol can increase the production of the hormone testosterone. But, as you know, after a slight relaxation, the desire to drink more increases a little. After exceeding the normal dosage of alcohol, testosterone is converted into the hormone estrogen (female sex hormones).

Also, alcoholic beverages contain sugar, so an excessive amount of alcohol harms the male body doubly. Frequent alcohol consumption significantly reduces the production of the hormone testosterone.

Meat products containing hormones

Meat (except lamb) grown in industrial animal husbandry contains hormones. Hormones are used to ensure that the animal grows quickly, has a good weight, gives a lot of milk and actively reproduces - this is economically beneficial to meat producers. After all, this method guarantees a reduction in costs and an increase in profits.

Most often, manufacturers use female hormones, these include estrogen, as well as similar hormones. high quantity female hormones in meat leads to the fact that the production of spermatozoa and the hormone testosterone in men slows down.

fast food

Fast food includes food: frozen convenience foods, chips, french fries, cheeseburgers, dumplings and dumplings, etc.

Fast food products include not only those dishes that are purchased in restaurants and cafes fast food, but also those products that are sold on store shelves.

Why is fast food bad for a man? This type of food contains many flavor enhancers, dyes, as well as salts, sugars and trans fats. In addition, in such products there are practically no natural and useful substances that are important for the normal functioning of the body. Over the years, studies have been conducted on the effects of fast food on the human body - their results will not please you. The US Department of Health has stated that eating fast food reduces testosterone production in men and leads to male obesity.

Carbonated soft drinks

Almost all people on earth are familiar with carbonated drinks - these are Coca-Cola, Fanta, Pepsi and others. Drinks of this type are products that lower the production of testosterone. 200 ml of a sweet carbonated drink contains about 6 tablespoons of sugar (this indicator differs for different manufacturers), aroma and taste enhancers, caffeine and other synthetic additives that harm the male body.

Sugar, dyes and flavor enhancers lead to dehydration, and this entails a decrease in the production of the hormone testosterone. And also, the love of carbonated drinks leads to a set excess weight, harms the stomach and spoils the teeth.

smoked products

Smoked products include a variety of sausages, sausages, chicken meat, fish, and cheese.

Smoked products are harmful to health for the reason that during the manufacture of such products, smoke liquid is used, which affects the tissues of male testicles by penetrating its toxins into the blood. Even if natural and highly effective types of smoking are used, there is a risk of intoxication of the body.

Confectionery and pastries

Products that reduce testosterone production in men also include bakery products (bread, muffins, various buns, dryers, pies, cakes, etc.).

Wheat flour is used to make most baked goods. The most useful substances of wheat are contained in the shell of wheat grains. Beneficial substances include vitamins, minerals and fiber.

During production, the grain is stripped of its shell by going through many stages of preparation before being used as food. Over the course of the stages, almost everything deteriorates. beneficial features grains. In the end, in the store we buy just beautiful and pure flour, in which there is nothing useful, in which case the flour consists practically of starch.

An interesting fact: the better the flour (the highest grade), the less useful substances it contains and the more purification steps it went through in production, plus synthetic additives and starch are added to it.

How bakery and confectionery harm a man?

This is due to the fact that in bakery and confectionery contain a lot of sugar, and sugar is known to activate the production of insulin. Insulin is dangerous because it leads to such a serious illness as diabetes, as well as by itself elevated insulin can lead to serious illness and even death.

Now it is difficult to find foods that contain only useful substances, so the only and correct option for maintaining normal testosterone hormone levels is proper nutrition (more vegetables and fruits), as well as moderate consumption of foods that can harm men's health.

Testosterone is a hormone produced in the male testicles. It plays a very important role in the normal functioning of the body. That's why low testosterone in men causes a lot of problems. Consider why it goes down, how it manifests itself and affects his health.

Lack of testosterone in men- this is a failure in the production of a hormone that occurs due to physical or pathological reasons and is accompanied by a deterioration in well-being due to a decrease in libido and muscle wasting. Since testosterone plays a crucial role for the body of men as a whole, the course of many processes and the state of health of each organ will depend on its concentration. Therefore, it is so important to detect hypotestosteremia in a timely manner and take appropriate measures to increase the concentration of the hormone in the blood of men.

The functions of testosterone and the consequences of its deficiency

The importance of testosterone for the full functioning of the body of men is difficult to overestimate. From the moment a male baby is born, it is this hormone that is responsible for its proper physical and psychological development.

Androgenic properties and anabolic effects will affect the following:

1. Growth and development of male reproductive structures - deficit testosterone will lead to a failure in the formation of the penis, testicles, prostate. Subsequently, male infantilism, infertility, and impotence develop.
2. The timely appearance of secondary sexual characteristics is a coarsening of the voice in a teenager-young man, covering the skin with a male-type hairline. Decreased testosterone leads to early baldness in men, or the wrong arrangement of hair, according to the female version.
3. A change in the timbre of the voice - the ligamentous structures thicken precisely due to the male hormone, therefore, the representatives of the strong part of the population have a lower timbre of the voice. Whereas flaw testosterone in organism contributes to the appearance of a high, sonorous voice.
4. The formation of muscles male version- it is the androgenic hormone that is responsible for the high synthesis of the protein substance required for a full-fledged muscular frame of the body. decline testershe in men leads to severe muscle hypotrophy of tissues.

In addition to all of the above, with lower testosterone levels serves as the basis for the formation of osteoporosis, changes in libido, as well as the deterioration of intellectual activity and the occurrence of erectile dysfunction, male infertility.

The main symptoms of low testosterone

Reasons for a decrease in the hormone

There are a number of reasons why this figure is decreasing. It can be both a certain disease and adverse factors. Main causes of low testosterone in men:

1. Bad habits. This is one of the most common causes of testosterone deficiency. Therefore, smoking, the use of drugs, uncontrolled consumption of alcoholic beverages negatively affect the hormonal background in general, and not just testosterone.
2. Stressful state, emotional overstrain. Men who are constantly under the influence of negative emotions can observe themselves after the surrender necessary analyzes lack of testosterone in the body.
3. Wrong lifestyle, nutrition. These factors include: poor physical activity, dysfunction nervous system on the basis of constant fatigue, excess weight as a result of malnutrition, unfavorable environmental conditions.
4. Prolonged use of potent drugs. This is especially true for drugs that are addictive.
5. Severe trauma and subsequent surgical removal of one or both testicles. Or congenital dysfunction of the testes, Klinefelter's syndrome, an infectious lesion of the reproductive organs of a man, for example, infectious parotitis.
6. Dysfunction of the hypothalamic-pituitary structures - malformations at the genetic level, for example, Kallman's syndrome, or the course mental illness with their influence on the production of hormones. Pituitary tumors, both benign and malignant, have an extremely unfavorable prognosis.
7. Toxic damage to the brain, as well as the pelvic organs in chronic abuse of narcotic substances, alcoholic products, medicines.

Concerning lower testosterone levels in men against the background of certain pathologies, these are:

• high blood pressure;
• the occurrence of shortness of breath;
• cardiopalmus;
• increased levels of bilirubin, which contributes to the preservation of the female hormone estrogen in the blood in men;
• dysfunction of the kidneys;
• obesity;
• dysfunction of the musculoskeletal system;
• infectious pathologies;
• hypothermia of the body;
• high blood cholesterol.

Chronic diseases that can cause a decrease in testosterone in men:

• osteoporosis;
• depression;
• diabetes;
• obesity;
• pathology of the cardiovascular system.

In addition to these reasons, lack of testosterone in the male body can be observed as a result of poisoning with toxic substances, the active development of pathogenic microorganisms, hereditary predisposition, a significant number of concussions and bruises of the brain.

In addition, with age, men experience testosterone deficiency. This is due to the weakening of the functioning of the genitourinary system in the elderly. That is, this situation is the norm in men over 50 years old.

It is important to know! A long stay of a man in nervous tension contributes to a complete stop in the production of this hormone!

Symptoms of malaise

The total lack of this hormone in men leads to serious disorders in the body. He not only experiences severe ailments, but also begins to look worse. Basic visual signs of low testosterone in men:

• yellowing of the white of the eye;
• blanching and cooling of the skin;
• dry skin, the appearance of a significant number of wrinkles in a short time;
• severe shortness of breath.

As for others symptoms of low testosterone in men, then these are:

• high heart rate;
• increased sweating;
• hot flashes that bother women during menopause;
• anemia;
• the appearance of excess weight, mainly on the femoral part;
• abnormal growth and development of the mammary glands, which is associated with an increase in the level of estrogen in the body;
• gradual hair loss in the armpits, pubis, on the face;
• weakening of bone tissue, a man is more prone to fractures;
• rapid overwork, a man becomes less resilient when performing physical exertion or carrying heavy objects;
• pain in the bones, body aches;
• weakening of muscle mass, which leads to its decrease.

Symptoms of low testosterone in men that affect the functioning of the nervous system:

• causeless mood swings, a tendency to depression and apathy;
• rapid overwork, both physically and emotionally;
• impaired concentration, poor ability to remember;
• insomnia at night and drowsiness during the day.

Main signs of low testosterone in men's health:

• significant weakening of erectile function;
• lack of spontaneous erection after waking up;
• decrease in the amount of seminal fluid;
• reduction of the testicles in size;
• too much frequent urges to urination.

In addition, a man's blood pressure begins to rise too often.

It is important to know! A change in character also indicates a low level of testosterone in a man's body! Some traits inherent in him may change in the opposite direction.

Diagnostics

Experts note that the determination of testosterone concentration is required only for those men who have clinical signs of hormone deficiency. So if lack of testosterone in men symptoms does not manifest itself, then only laboratory tests help to identify latent insufficiency.

The most important parameters, of course, are the total and calculated free testosterone, which is calculated separately. Blood sampling for research should be carried out exclusively in the morning, when the concentration of the androgenic substance reaches its maximum.

To date testosterone deficiency in men, symptoms which is already visible visually - it is less than 12 nmol / l of total hormone, as well as 250 pmol / l of free testosterone. However, each laboratory may have its own reference values, which must be indicated in the forms of the final study.

Moreover, when detecting decrease in testosterone levels in men, signs should also be observed in other laboratory and instrumental examinations - deviations in the concentration of LH and FSH, volumetric formation of the pituitary gland, osteoporosis on bone radiography, ultrasound signs in the testicles, testicles, penis.

In this case, the specialist evaluates the completeness of the information - the concentration testosterone, which reduces him, what are the previous diseases suffered by the man. After all signs of low testosterone may be the result of banal overwork - in workaholics, athletes after intense training.

How to increase hormone levels

Treatment for low testosterone the first stage is to carry out preventive measures, which contribute to the normalization of the functioning of the body as a whole. The rules that a man must follow to improve his condition and increase this hormone include:

1. Moderate physical activity. Men should go in for sports to keep the body in good shape, but excessive physical activity is contraindicated. To normalize hormonal levels, a representative of the stronger sex should visit the gym about 3 times a week. It is also helpful to regularly go to the pool. Swimming provides sufficient and moderate exercise, which is necessary for the release of testosterone.
2. Correct and balanced diet. A sufficient amount of vitamins, minerals and other useful substances should be supplied to the body of a man. It is also required to exclude fatty, fried, spicy, overly salty dishes from the daily diet. They negatively affect weight, which leads to obesity. In order to increase the level of testosterone, it is required to saturate the body with zinc, a large amount of which is found in protein products.
3. Positive emotions. A man should try to avoid stressful situations, emotional upheavals and other negative factors. To do this, you need to rest more. And rest should be active. You can regularly visit ski resorts, as well as various specialized sanatoriums. Visiting various exhibitions, concerts, etc. will also saturate with positive emotions.
4. Compliance with the daily routine. A man should devote a sufficient amount of rest, sleep should be at least 8 hours a day. In this case, moderate activity will only benefit.
5. Rejection of bad habits. The most common addictions are smoking and excessive consumption of alcoholic beverages. They need to be excluded from Everyday life which will help to normalize the hormonal background. This is especially true for men who like to drink beer almost every day in order to quench their thirst.

It is important to know! Sweets in the form of daily snacks also contribute to lower testosterone levels! Therefore, in order to fully restore the body, it is necessary to exclude sweet foods from the diet.

Medical treatment

Treatment of testosterone deficiency with medications required in cases where therapy without medicines does not give a positive result.

Drug therapy is aimed at normalizing the hormonal background in men. Hormone replacement treatment will replenish the missing hormones in the body. For this, the following types of medicines:

• hormonal patch;
• injections for intramuscular injection;
• tablets for oral use;
• preparations containing hormones in the form of gels.

Hormone therapy must be carried out under the strict supervision of the attending physician.

Medications will not only increase testosterone levels, but also improve erectile function in men, which is an important factor in the life of every member of the stronger sex. In addition, the growth of hair on the face, armpits, pubis will increase in a man, bone tissue will strengthen, and muscle mass will also increase.

Consequences of low hormone levels

A total lack of testosterone can lead to extremely serious consequences. Especially if you do not provide the man in this case with the necessary treatment. Lack of testosterone can cause the development of such pathologies:

1. Infertility. Since this hormone is produced in the testicles, it directly affects the functioning of the genitourinary system. Violation of erectile function gradually leads to its dysfunction. The final stage of this condition is the inability to conceive children.
2. Osteoporosis. This disease is characterized by weakening of the bones. The skeleton becomes fragile, as a result of which the man becomes prone to fractures even with minor injury.
3. Arterial hypertension. High blood pressure begins to be chronic with a prolonged lack of testosterone in the body.

Over time, a man has a predominance of female hormones, which are reflected in his appearance. He shows such features characteristic of the male physique:

• weak growth of hairline on the chest, pubis, in the armpits, on the face or its complete disappearance;
• deposition of fat cells on the thighs;
• weakening of muscle tissue.

The skin gradually turns pale, the whites of the eyes acquire a yellowish tint, which makes it appearance extremely painful.

Therefore, it is very important to direct all the forces and energy to the normalization of the hormonal background. This will not only improve physical well-being, but will also help restore the emotional state.

Increased testosterone levels in men

An increase in this hormone male body is the norm in adolescence. As for middle-aged or elderly men, this process can cause a lot of health problems, as well as insufficient amount of testosterone. An excessive amount of the hormone causes increased hair growth in an adult male, the appearance acne and acne. In especially neglected situations, the death of the testicles can be observed.

This condition should be diagnosed by the attending physician. And also he is obliged to control the process of lowering the level of this hormone. In most cases A man can reduce testosterone by eating certain foods. that inhibit the release of this hormone. These include:

1. Alcoholic drinks. This is especially true for beer. This alcoholic drink helps to activate the female hormone.
2. Meat products. To reduce testosterone, you should eat baked pork, sausage, sausages, and more. They help convert testosterone to estrogen.
   Soy products.
3. Lots of sugar and salt. Sweets and salty foods inhibit the production of testosterone in men. A large amount of glucose is found in sweet fruits. They should be emphasized. Since fruits are enriched with vitamins and other useful substances and they do not contain lipids that can lead to obesity.
4. caffeinated products. Coffee and dark chocolate help lower testosterone to the required level.

But you should not overdo it with such foods. After all, their excessive amount can lower the hormone below the norm, which as a result will lead to unpleasant consequences.

Prevention of low testosterone

Decreased testosterone levels negatively affects health in men. So it's better with young age take care of the normal state of the hormonal background. To do this, you must adhere to the following rules:

1. Moderate physical activity. Every man should regularly attend gyms and swimming pools. Strengthening muscle mass helps to avoid obesity, which inhibits the production of testosterone.
2. Proper nutrition. The diet should be useful products, which contain in their composition a significant amount of vitamins, minerals and other useful substances.
3. It is required to avoid fried, fatty, spicy and salty foods.
4. Avoid stress. Young people whose professional activity causes regular stress and emotional overstrain, it is better to change jobs. Since the kind of such activity will lead to a serious violation of the hormonal background.
5. Daily regime. Compliance with the daily routine is an integral part of prevention if a man wants to maintain normal erectile function and hormonal levels for as long as possible. Sufficient amount of time is required to devote to proper rest.

Low testosterone is a serious male problem that should be addressed as early as possible. This will help avoid negative consequences in the future.

The decrease in testosterone in the vast majority of cases is a sign of aging, both male and female. female body. However, a lack of production of this sex hormone can be triggered big amount other predisposing factors.

Such a sign is accompanied by a large number of additional symptoms, for example, deterioration of the hair, skin and nail plates, as well as a violation of sexual functions.

The correct diagnosis can be made based on clinical manifestations and laboratory determination of the level of sex hormones. To correct the violation, conservative methods of therapy are prescribed.

Etiology

The most common predisposing factors that can reduce testosterone in males are:

• the age category is over forty years old - it is after this period that a physiological decrease in such a substance occurs. This is due to the aging of the body and it is not possible to reverse such a process;
• poor nutrition - if the body does not receive enough vitamins and micronutrients, then the production of such a sex hormone will be insufficient;
• the presence of excess body weight in a person is one of the most dangerous causes of this condition. leads not only to a decrease in the concentration of male sex hormones, but also affects the activation of the production of estrogens - female hormones;
• excessive addiction to drinking alcohol, smoking and drugs;
• insufficient physical activity of a person - a moderately active lifestyle helps to prevent the appearance of such a sign and helps to increase testosterone. It is noteworthy that excessive exercise stress can also serve as a source of development of such a disorder;
• abuse of certain drugs;
• genetic predisposition;
• trauma to the testicles and other organs of the male reproductive system;
• carrying a mobile phone in the pockets of trousers;

Despite the fact that testosterone is a male sex hormone, it is also present in the female body. It is produced by the adrenal glands and is found in small amounts.

Causes of low testosterone in women:

• entry into the period;
• menopause;
• acute, against the background of which the glands cannot secrete the required amount of this substance;
• indiscriminate use of certain medications;
• surgical excision of one or cut of two ovaries;
• polycystic ovary syndrome;
• severe physical or emotional stress;
• prolonged exposure to stressful situations.

It follows from this that a decrease in testosterone levels in both sexes is often caused by physiological factors, but sometimes it can indicate the course of a disease that requires medical intervention.

Symptoms

Signs of a decrease in the level of such a sex hormone in men and women will be somewhat different. Thus, the basis of the clinical picture of such a disorder in representatives of the strong half of humanity is the following symptoms:

• lack of sexual attraction to the opposite sex;
• a decrease in bone density, which makes a person prone to frequent injuries or fractures;
• increase in body weight and volume of mammary glands;
• rarity of hairline on the face, pubis and armpits;
• decrease in working capacity;
• frequent mood swings and depression;
• constant fatigue and;
• the formation of wrinkles;
• decrease in the volume of the testicles;
• erectile dysfunction.

The decrease in testosterone in women is clinically less pronounced than in men. This is due to the fact that such a hormone for females is not the main one.

In such cases, the lack of such a substance is expressed in the following symptoms:

• decrease or absence of sexual desire;
• inability to enjoy sexual intercourse;
• violation of the cycle of menstruation;
• frequent hot flashes;
• dry skin;
• increased fragility of hair and nail plates;
• causeless fatigue and constant weakness;
• decrease in physical strength;
• problems with concentration;
• accumulation of fat in the abdomen, arms and neck;
• change in voice timbre;
• fragility of bones;
• drowsiness during the daytime and lack of sleep at night.

If any pathology has become the cause of reduced testosterone, then the symptoms will be supplemented by the clinical manifestations of a particular disease.

Diagnostics

Despite the fact that the lack of male sex hormones is often a completely normal physiological process, sometimes it can be the result of some kind of illness, which means that patients need to undergo a comprehensive examination, which includes:

• study by the clinician of the history of the disease and the collection of an anamnesis of the life of the patient;
• conducting a detailed survey of the patient - to identify the time of onset of symptoms;
• conducting an objective examination;
• laboratory studies of the level of hormones in the blood - will show a direct decrease in this hormone, and also indicate a possible pathological cause of a sharp decrease in testosterone levels in men and women;
• Ultrasound of the genital organs.

Depending on individual indicators, additional laboratory and instrumental methods of examination may be prescribed.

Treatment

Testosterone deficiency is replenished using the following conservative methods:

• taking medications;
• adherence to diet therapy;
• psychotherapy;
• normalization of the mode of wakefulness and rest.

Drug therapy is intended only for men and consists in performing substitution hormonal treatment which will help you achieve:

• normalization of male libido;
• normalization of erection;
• regrowth of hair in the pubic area and armpits;
• increase in bone density;
• normalization of muscle strength.

The basis of therapy for reducing testosterone levels in women is diet therapy, which is also important for males, but is of a secondary nature. The therapeutic diet involves enriching the menu with products that increase the content of such a sex hormone. These ingredients should include:

• seafood;
• cabbage and beets;
• green grapes and mango;
• melon and carrots;
• raisins and pineapple;
• oranges and pears;
• prunes and pomegranate;
• zucchini and bell pepper;
• blackcurrant and plums;
• any greens;
• pearl barley, buckwheat and wheat porridge;
• curry and turmeric;
• cardamom and garlic.