Index IntroductionCauses and Symptoms of Low Testosterone LevelsAdverse Changes in Blood Lipid ProfileIntroductionTestosterone is a hormone that gives men their characteristic deep voices, large muscles, and facial hair and of the body, distinguishing them from women. During puberty, testosterone stimulates the growth of the genitals, plays a role in sperm production, fuels libido and contributes to normal erections. Additionally, testosterone promotes the production of red blood cells, improves mood, and aids cognition. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get Original Essay Causes and Symptoms of Low Testosterone As men age, their testosterone levels begin to decline, usually starting in the mid-40s. This heralds what is commonly known as andropause, the male counterpart to menopause. Although this is a natural part of aging, the decline in testosterone production by the testicles may be more rapid in some men than in others. Excessive weight gain, stress, lack of exercise, and many medications further contribute to a man's ability to produce testosterone, resulting in even lower testosterone levels and leading to symptoms of andropause. Symptoms of androgen deficiency and low testosterone levels are used to establish a diagnosis of hypogonadism (“hypo” meaning low functioning and “gonadism” referring to the testicles). Signs and symptoms may include: Low libido Irritability Depression Loss of muscle mass and strength Weight gain Metabolic syndrome Erectile dysfunction Sleep problems Osteoporosis Adverse changes in blood lipid profile Therapy is recommended for people with low levels of testosterone in the blood (less of 300 ng/dl) symptoms of low testosterone levels. Therapy is not recommended for men who have prostate or breast cancer a lump on the prostate that can be felt during a DREa PSA greater than 3 ng/ml without further evaluation a hematocrit greater than 50% or thick, viscous blood apnea untreated obstructive sleep disorders severe lower urinary tract symptoms class III or IV heart failure. Treatment of Andropause (Low Testosterone) Testosterone replacement therapy has the potential to dramatically improve the quality of life for those who need it. Studies have shown that testosterone replacement therapy can offer a wide range of benefits for men with hypogonadism, including improved libido, mood, cognitive function, muscle mass, bone density and production of red blood cells. What is the optimal form of testosterone for replacement therapy? The oldest form is the injection, which we still use because it is inexpensive and because we reliably get good testosterone levels in almost everyone. The disadvantage is that a man has to come every few weeks to get an injection. A roller coaster effect can also occur when blood testosterone levels peak and then return to baseline. Testosterone supplement pills exist in the United States, but their use is strongly discouraged because they cause significant liver toxicity. Please note: this is just a sample. Get a custom paper from our expert writers now. Get a Custom Essay Topical therapies help maintain a more even level of testosterone in the blood. The first form of topical therapy was a patch, but it has a very high rate of.