Hypogonadism
is a term that may be thrown around in the doctor’s office of a man struggling
with his libido and sex drive. While it
sounds scary – and may conjure up images of shrinking nether regions –
hypogonadism is nothing more than a fancy term for testosterone
deficiency. While having hypogonadism is
not as bad as it sounds, it is condition which can impact many facets of a
man’s health and wellness and – perhaps most importantly – his extracurricular activities
in the bedroom. While a man cannot hide completely
from a waning testosterone level, maintaining proper penis care can keep the
penis as vital and high-functioning as possible.
Hypo-what now?
Hypogonadism
is a condition that results from a low testosterone level in men. Testosterone is the male hormone that is
responsible for growth and development of everything that makes a man a man,
including: male genitals, muscle mass, bone mass, lower vocal cords, fat
distribution, and yes –even that male pattern baldness. Testosterone is also responsible for
maintaining high energy levels, mood stability, sex drive and male fertility. Testosterone levels in men naturally decline
with age, with an accelerated drop off after the age of 50.
While it
is a common problem in older men, hypogonadism can occur in younger men, as
well. A testosterone deficiency may be
the result of a malfunctioning hypothalamus, pituitary gland or testicles that
reduce testosterone production and secretion.
Are there other risk factors?
Low
testosterone levels may be present in as many as 13 million men in the United
States alone; however, it is a condition for which many do not receive
treatment, with less than 10% seeking medical solutions for the problem. Men who are obese or have diabetes or
hypertension may be more likely to have low testosterone than their counterparts. Men who have had radiation or chemotherapy
treatments may experience lower testosterone levels, as well. Stress, chronic illness, cirrhosis of the
liver and alcoholism may also contribute to a lower level of the hormone. Thus, while a drop in testosterone cannot be
avoided altogether, maintaining a healthy lifestyle and a body weight within
normal limits may slow the pace of male hormone reduction.
What are the symptoms of low
testosterone?
Perhaps
the most complained about symptom men experience is a reduction in sex
drive. Low testosterone may also
contribute to erectile dysfunction, feelings of depression, and difficulty
concentrating. As the hormone levels in
the body shift, muscle mass will decrease, while body fat increases. Additionally, there may be changes in
cholesterol levels, a decrease in hemoglobin -- which may result in mild anemia
-- an increase in bone fragility, and a decrease in body hair. Doctors can determine if a deficiency is
present via a simple blood draw.
What are the treatment options
for low testosterone?
A doctor
can recommend the best course of treatment for each man’s particular issues and
lifestyle. Common options of
testosterone replacement therapy are hormone injections, testosterone patches,
hormone gels, oral medications, testosterone stick (similar to deodorant), and
a testosterone implant that is positioned under the skin.
How to maintain penis health
Testosterone
replacement therapy is not for everybody, and it is not the only way to
maintain a vital, healthy penis. Using a
daily penis health creme, preferably
one that is all-natural and contains vitamins and minerals, can keep the penis
rejuvenated and young (most professional
recommend Man 1 Man Oil). A penis creme containing L-Arginine can
actually increase blood flow to the penis, delivering energy sustaining oxygen
to the area. Using a penis creme daily
as part of a healthy lifestyle, along with proper nutrition and exercise, can
help fight off the signs of aging and help maintain a healthy sex life for
years to come.
