Men experiencing fatigue, a decrease in sex drive, muscle strength, or memory may be facing hypogonadism, or low testosterone. This condition can be caused by underlying health issues or simply the natural aging process. At Utah Endocrinology Associates, Dr. Alireza Falahati, MD, FACE, specializes in diagnosing and treating hormone disorders, including hypogonadism, to help you regain vitality and overall well-being.
Hypogonadism occurs when a man's testicles do not produce enough testosterone, the primary male hormone responsible for male reproductive organ development, puberty changes, and maintaining various aspects of men's health throughout life. This includes sex drive, sperm production, red blood cell production, muscle strength, bone density, and fat distribution.
Hypogonadism can be classified as primary or secondary. Primary hypogonadism arises from issues with the testicles, while secondary hypogonadism is often caused by problems in the hypothalamus or pituitary gland. Obesity is also a significant factor in hypogonadism, as a one-point increase in body mass index (BMI) can lead to a 2% decline in testosterone levels.
After the age of 30, testosterone levels naturally decrease by up to 2% every year, even in healthy individuals with normal weight.
Symptoms of hypogonadism may include low sex drive, erectile dysfunction, reduced muscle mass, increased body fat, fatigue, loss of bone density, decreased body hair, poor concentration, memory issues, sleep difficulties, and depression. Hypogonadism in young boys may also delay puberty or affect normal development.
Dr. Falahati employs a dual approach to treating hypogonadism: addressing the underlying issue while initiating hormone replacement therapy to normalize hormone levels. After assessing your hormone levels through in-office blood work, Dr. Falahati prescribes the appropriate dosage to restore balance, alleviate symptoms, and promote overall health. Testosterone replacement therapy is available in various forms, including gel, injection, patch, and implantable pellet.
If you're experiencing changes in sex drive, energy, or strength, contact Utah Endocrinology Associates at one of our convenient locations in Salt Lake City, American Fork, or Ogden, Utah. Schedule an appointment online or give us a call to start your journey toward improved health and wellness.
