Low libido, or a diminished interest in sex, can be a normal and temporary occurrence at various stages of life. However, if this persists for more than six months or causes concern, it is advisable to seek advice from a doctor. Potential underlying factors include low testosterone (TestosteroneDeficiency), thyroid disease, diabetes, stress, anxiety, depression, certain medications, alcohol, and recreational drugs, among others.
Testosterone Deficiency
Insufficient testosterone levels can adversely affect erections, libido, muscle mass, energy levels, mood, bone strength, and increase the risk of heart disease. Therefore, it is critical to appropriately assess for Testosterone Deficiency (TD). While testosterone naturally decreases with age, aging alone does not solely cause TD.
Other potential causes include obesity, diabetes, other hormonal imbalances, certain medications, alcohol, and recreational drugs.Accurate identification of genuine testosterone deficiency through appropriate testing is essential before considering testosterone replacement therapy (TTh).
Men experiencing mood swings, fatigue, loss of libido, reduced self-confidence, erectile dysfunction, sleep disturbances, decreased concentration, and lack of motivation often struggle to identify the cause. TD can affect approximately 8% of men aged 50 to 79 years, yet it remains under diagnosed and under treated in Ireland, with many attributing these symptoms to aging.
As men age, testosterone levels naturally decline; however, in cases of TD, testosterone drops to levels that impact health and overall quality of life significantly. This is particularly prevalent in men over 50, as well as those with type 2 diabetes and erectile dysfunction (ED). Low testosterone levels can serve as an important health indicator for these and other conditions.
Diagnosis of TD involves a consultation and a series of blood tests. Testosterone replacement therapy aims to restore normal testosterone levels in individuals diagnosed with TD. However, like any treatment, it may have side effects. It is advisable to discuss the diagnosis and explore various treatment options directly with a healthcare professional to determine the most suitable approach.
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