Hypogonadism refers to a condition in which the body does not produce enough testosterone. This happens when the testes or ovaries malfunction and do not produce adequate levels of sex hormones.
Symptoms of hypogonadism depend on the age when the condition develops, but may include:
- Low sex drive
- Erectile dysfunction
- Reduced muscle mass and strength
- Fatigue
- Depressed mood
- Loss of body and facial hair
There are two main types of hypogonadism:
- Primary hypogonadism - defect lies in the testes which do not produce enough testosterone
- Secondary hypogonadism - defect lies in the pituitary gland which does not signal the testes to produce testosterone
Causes of primary hypogonadism can include:
- Klinefelter syndrome
- Undescended testes
- Infection
- Liver or kidney disease
- Hemochromatosis
- Radiation treatment or chemotherapy
Causes of secondary hypogonadism can include:
- Pituitary disorders
- Medications
- Inflammatory diseases
- HIV/AIDs
- Tumors
Doctors diagnose hypogonadism through
blood tests to measure total and free testosterone levels. They may also check luteinizing hormone and follicle stimulating hormone levels.
Treatment involves testosterone replacement therapy to restore normal hormone levels. Options include injections, gels, patches and pellets. Hormone Harmony Clinic provides all forms of
testosterone therapy to help men optimize strength, endurance and vitality. Their clinics offer customized programs to effectively treat hypogonadism.
In summary, hypogonadism is caused by insufficient sex hormone production in the gonads. Symptoms include fatigue, mood changes and sexual dysfunction. It is diagnosed through blood tests and treated with testosterone replacement therapy to alleviate symptoms. Reach out to clinics like Hormone Harmony Clinic for safe, effective treatment approaches.