Central Florida Health and Wellness Magazine Health and Wellness Articles of the Villages
Related Articles
As Men’s Health Month kicks off, it’s a great time to shine a light on two increasingly common issues affecting men – low testosterone and erectile dysfunction (ED). While these conditions can have a major impact on male sexual health and overall well-being, there are effective treatment options available.
The Lowdown on Low Testosterone
Testosterone is the primary male sex hormone responsible for male sexual development and functions like sexual desire, erections, and sperm production. Low testosterone levels, also called hypogonadism or “low-T”, can occur due to issues with the testicles or pituitary gland.
Symptoms of low testosterone include decreased libido, erectile dysfunction, depressed mood, difficulty concentrating, fatigue, and loss of muscle mass/strength. Risk factors include obesity, diabetes, injury or infection to the testicles, hormone disorders, and certain medications.
If you experience potential symptoms of low testosterone, your doctor can check your levels with a blood test. For those diagnosed with low-T, testosterone replacement therapy may be recommended to raise testosterone back to normal levels. This can be done through injections, gels, patches or pellets placed under the skin.
The Truth About Erectile Dysfunction
Erectile dysfunction, or the inability to get and keep an erection firm enough for sex, can stem from both physical and psychological causes. While ED is more common with age, it shouldn’t be considered a normal part of aging.
Physical factors like diabetes, obesity, heart disease, low testosterone, and side effects from medications can all contribute to ED. Psychological factors include depression, anxiety, and stress. Unhealthy habits like smoking, excessive alcohol use, and lack of exercise can also increase ED risk.
The good news is that ED is highly treatable for most men. First-line treatments often include oral medications like sildenafil, tadalafil, vardenafil, and avanafil which improve blood flow to the penis. Other options are injectable medications directly into the penis, vacuum erection devices, penile implants, and vascular surgery in some cases.
According to the National Institute of Health, as many as 30 million men suffer from erectile dysfunction. It is estimated erectile dysfunction affects:
• 12 percent of men younger than 60
• 22 percent of men between ages 60 and 69
• 30 percent of men older than 70
Healthy Lifestyle Habits Count
For both low testosterone and ED, maintaining a healthy lifestyle through exercise, healthy diet, not smoking, and limiting alcohol can go a long way. Exercising regularly improves cardiovascular health, burns body fat, reduces stress, and boosts testosterone levels.
Obesity increases the risk of low testosterone levels, and losing weight can help raise testosterone back to normal levels. Getting enough vitamins and minerals like zinc, vitamin D, and magnesium from a nutritious diet is also important for testosterone production.
Breaking the Stigma
Unfortunately, there is still a significant stigma around male sexual health issues that prevents many men from getting help. Low testosterone and ED are not something to be ashamed about or ignore. These are legitimate medical conditions that can be treated.
Some Questions You Might Ask Your Health Care Provider about Low Testosterone
When you go to see your doctor, you may be a bit nervous. It will help if you make a list of the most important things on your mind. Here are some ideas:
• What tests will I need to find out if I need Testosterone Therapy (TT)?
• Will I have to repeat these tests? If so, how often?
• Does a Low-T level make it hard for me to make sperm?
• Will TT help me to be more fertile?
• What methods of TT are there? Which one would you suggest for me? Why?
• I have diabetes. Does this mean I will need TT?
• I have trouble getting an erection. Will TT help with sexual function?
• During or after treatment, are there any changes I can make to my life and routine to help keep my testosterone level normal?
• My son was born with low testosterone. Will he need TT all his life?
• Are there support groups to help my son cope with his TD?
• Heart disease is in my family. Is it safe for me to have TT?
This Men’s Health Month, make an effort to be more open about your sexual health with your doctor. Getting your testosterone levels checked or speaking up about any erectile issues could be the first step to resolving the problem and improving your overall quality of life.
There are countless reasons to make your sexual health a priority, from boosting your self-confidence and relationships to reducing disease risks associated with low-T like osteoporosis, diabetes, and heart disease. Don’t let stigma or embarrassment prevent you from getting the care you need.
By proactively monitoring testosterone levels, adopting healthy habits, and seeking treatment for erectile dysfunction, men can take control of their sexual health at any age. This Men’s Health Month, start the conversation and take action by calling Lake Sumter Urology today.
352-775-6899
www.lakesumterurology.com
808 Highway 466, Lady Lake, FL 32159
