What is testosterone?
Testosterone is the primary male sex hormone responsible for the development and maintenance of male physical characteristics. This vital anabolic steroid plays a key role in reproductive health, muscle and bone strength, red blood cell production, fat distribution, and more.
Some key facts about testosterone:
- Produced mainly in the Leydig cells of the testes in men, with smaller amounts from the adrenal glands and conversion from other hormones
- Androgen hormones like testosterone stimulate the development of male sexual characteristics
- Helps stimulate spermatogenesis (sperm production)
- Peaks during puberty contributing to growth, body hair, vocal changes, etc.
- Works with other hormones like estrogen to regulate various processes
- Boosts production of red blood cells carrying oxygen to tissues
- Builds and helps maintain bone density and strength
- Plays a role in fat metabolism and lean body mass
- May decline with age (hypogonadism) causing symptoms like low energy and reduced muscle mass
Low testosterone can occur at any age due to health conditions or other factors leading to unpleasant symptoms:
- Reduced sex drive and erectile dysfunction
- Loss of body and facial hair
- Depression, irritability, and mood changes
- Fatigue, difficulty concentrating, and insomnia
- Loss of bone density, muscle mass and strength
If struggling with potential low T symptoms, get your blood levels tested! The professionals at Hormone Care Center can help diagnose the issue and craft an individualized treatment plan involving lifestyle changes, medications or testosterone therapy. We believe optimizing your hormones leads to better living for men and women!