The Amazing Power Of Testosterone
Testosterone is a naturally occurring hormone in the body. Created by the reproductive organs, testosterone manages sex drive and reproductive health. Men need and produce considerably more testosterone than women. In addition to sex drive in men, a high T count improves mood, focus, muscle growth and energy. However, low testosterone brings a host of unexpected problems.
The boning up on the consequence of low T
Testosterone helps maintain bone mass and muscle mass. Studies show testosterone contributes to osteoporosis. Osteoporosis is a loss of bone density and strength. Bones naturally break down during the aging process. Testosterone helps with the rebuilding of new bone and maintaining mass. If insufficient testosterone is in the body, new growth cannot keep up with bone loss. The result is brittle bones likely to break with minor falls or bumps. Yes, bones weaken with age. Yet, the degree of weakness and speed of decline in men is directly related to a testosterone deficiency.
Osteoporosis is silent but harmful
Osteoporosis often goes undiagnosed as the condition can creep up unexpectedly. Over 2 million men in the United States suffer from osteoporosis. Millions more have low bone density mass called ostepoenia. Screening for osteoporosis with a bone mineral density (BMD) scan is the best way to check for the condition.
Checking for healthy minerals
Doctors use a BMD to determine the strength of bone mass. The test consists of digital images of the hips and spine A score of -2.5 or fewer means osteoporosis is present. When doing a BMD test, doctors often suggest a blood test. The test determines a link between low T and bone density.
Additional symptoms of low T
Brittle bones aren’t the only concern for men with low T. A testosterone deficiency has additional clear signs. For example, hair loss is a sign of low testosterone in men as is a clear loss of muscle mass and an increase in fat happens when testosterone levels are low. Other symptoms include low sex drive and sperm production, low energy, and a lack of drive or motivation. If addressed quickly, testosterone replacement therapy can avoid osteoporosis and improve wellbeing.
Higher T equals stronger bones
Testosterone declines with age in men and women. However, an unnatural dip causes serious damage to energy, mood, and sex life. More importantly, low T impacts bone health, leaving the door open to osteoporosis. Broken bones due to the disease can really impact the quality of life. Doctors suggest a visit to conduct a testosterone and BMD test. A plan for treatment prevents unnecessary ailments later in life.