Testosterone DNA

What causes low testosterone levels?

By Erik Bos • 3 min read •

Updated from an older post. October 29, 2017

A male sex hormone, testosterone plays a vital role in the overall health and well-being of men. This hormone is thought to serve the following functions:

  • Regulates libido
  • Assists with the production of sperm
  • Helps build and maintain bone and muscle mass
  • Aids in the production of red blood cells
  • Properly distributes fat throughout the body
  • Regulates mood

It is believed that men reach their peak testosterone levels at the age of 17. Thereafter, production slows and the hormone levels off. By the time men reach their 30s and 40s, their testosterone levels are often much lower than they were during their teenage years.

A slowed production and lower levels of testosterone is not uncommon in older men; however, it can affect males of all ages; young men, teenagers, and even children.HRT Calgary

There are a number of factors that can contribute to low testosterone levels. Some of the most common causes of low-T include the following:

  • Primary hypogonadism

This condition can occur in males who have underactive testes, or testes that don’t produce enough testosterone, which can prevent growth and development. Primary hypogonadism can be inherited or it can be developed as a result of an accident or illness. For example, undescended testicles are a birth defect, while an cancer treatment or a blow to both testicles would cause injury to the area after birth that could inhibit the production of testosterone.

  • Secondary hypogonadism

This cause of low-T occurs when there is damage to the hypothalamus or pituitary gland. Both of these sections of the brain control the production of testosterone in the testes. Pituitary disorders, inflammatory diseases (tuberculosis or histiocytosis, for example), obesity and medications are all factors that can lead to secondary hypogonadism.

This cause of low-T occurs when there is damage to the hypothalamus or pituitary gland. Both of these sections of the brain control the production of testosterone in the testes. Pituitary disorders, inflammatory diseases (tuberculosis or histiocytosis, for example), obesity and medications are all factors that can lead to secondary hypogonadism.

If you are suffering from low-T, you could be a candidate for male hormone replacement therapy (HRT) in our Calgary Clinic. Contact us today, to learn more about HRT for men.