Hypogonadism is a disorder that occurs when the body is unable to produce the necessary hormone levels. In men, it can severely affect the production of testosterone and, ultimately, impact physical growth and health. Currently, within the older male population, there is a prevalence of hypogonadism and research suggests that this level is set to grow.
There are numerous ways in which hypogonadism can occur and some men are born with the disorder. For others, it occurs later in life, typically as a result of an infection or, occasionally, and injury. Additionally, there are two variations of the disorder, referred to respectively as primary hypogonadism (occurring within the testes) and secondary hypogonadism (occurring within the brain).
How to Recognise Hypogonadism
The symptoms of hypogonadism are as follows:
- Decreased muscle mass
- Low or absent libido
- Lethargy
- Depression
- Weight gain
- Hair loss or thinning
- Difficulty sustaining or obtaining an erection
- Excessive sweating
- Difficulty focussing
Because of their sometimes sexual nature, symptoms can be difficult for men to come to terms with, leading to anxiety and embarrassment. In these cases, hypogonadism may even lead to mental health disorders. At other times the symptoms can occur appear gradually or be altogether difficult to identify due to their vagueness. For example, a man may experience lethargy and depression but consider the issue a result of a work schedule, not recognising that it is in fact a health issue.
Diagnosing hypogonadism requires a medical professional and, if you believe you may be struggling with the disorder, it is important to speak to your doctor. A blood test will be administered, as well as an examination, and you should receive the results quickly. Depending on your circumstances and the nuances of your disorder, other tests may occur but each is relatively simple.
Managing Hypogonadism
Thankfully, there are many options for managing hypogonadism. The most common method is to supplement the body’s missing testosterone with a procedure known as testosterone replacement therapy (TRT). This type of procedure can be administered in numerous ways, such as an injection or via intradermal gels, and are available to obtain from established and reputable groups like Balance My Hormones. As TRT is undergone, the symptoms of hypogonadism will dissipate and reverse as testosterone levels return to normal.
If hypogonadism occurs as part of a treatable condition, it will typically be resolved, with testosterone levels returning to normal, once the condition is resolved. However, if hypogonadism occurs as the result of an untreatable condition, it is unlikely to be resolved and, instead, requires ongoing treatment, such as TRT.
While the treatment is now easily accessible and administered, with little to no interference in a person’s life, it can still have dramatic effects upon a man’s mental health, leading them to doubt their sense of masculinity or preventing them from performing as they feel they should.
If you are concerned that you may be suffering from hypogonadism or would like support dealing with the disorder, there is help available. Many medical professionals will be able to direct you toward a suitable support group, should you require.
