Testosterone, a sex hormone is often related to male sexual desire, strength and machismo. The basic function of this hormone is to develop secondary sex male characteristics in men.
What are the different attributes of this hormone?
Testosterone plays a key role in performing following functions in the body:
- Deepening of voice,
- Development of facial and body hair,
- sperm production and maturation of the genitalia,
- improved muscle density, and
- increased bone strength
There is one more hormone called inhibin that is created in the testicles. This hormone along with testosterone is responsible for regulating the rate of development of sperm in the body.
What can be the contributing factor for low levels of testosterone in the body?
There are several factors responsible for low T levels. These are aging processes, malfunction of the pituitary gland, inefficient functioning of testicles, and the hypothalamus. Any sort of injury, genetic defects, trauma, and cancer treatments can also adversely impact the ability of glands to secrete adequate levels of hormone.
How can you identify you have a low T?
Some of the most common signs and symptoms of low T or decreased function of testosterone include:
- low sperm count
- reduced sex drive
- disinterest in sex
- difficulty in getting spontaneous erections
- dysfunction of erectile
- higher body fat along with reduced muscle mass
- lack of energy
- erratic mood swings
- difficulty sleeping
- irritability
- depression
- lack of interest in activities which a person used to enjoy earlier
How can maintain the right levels of testosterone in the body?
Levels of testosterone present in the body is controlled by one of the major glands called the pituitary gland. The right levels of it ensures optimal functioning of estrogen and testosterone hormones in men.
Any lack in the amount of this hormone can impact several vital functions in the body such as male pattern baldness, low sex drive, reduction in muscle density etc. If you want to make sure that you have right levels of testosterone in the body, then you should get a blood test done. On the basis of the test results, if you are found to be deficient then the doctor can advise you some measures such as supplementation, hormone boosters etc.
Conclusion
Testosterone is one of the most significant hormones secreted by the body. Lack of it can cause a lot of trouble to the body. It is thus required to get it regularly checked and examined to save from any bodily discomforts.
