What Causes Low Testosterone in Young Men: Exploring Underlying Factors » Central Texas Urology

Male hypogonadism Symptoms & causes

Testosterone has been postulated to be a risk factor for urinary stones since the prevalence of stones is two to three times greater in men than in women [4, 5]. Recent laboratory data from rats also revealed that finasteride interferes with the crystal formation of calcium oxalate, the most common stone component [7]. “What is more common is the natural variation in testosterone requirements between individuals – both men and women,” says Dr Foster. “There is growing interest in the role of genetics in testosterone production and how the body responds to it. When your body is showing an abnormal decrease in muscle mass and strength, it’s often due to a decline in testosterone levels. Recognizing the symptoms of low testosterone is vital for young men to seek timely medical advice. The signs can vary widely, but several common symptoms often indicate a deficiency.

Infections or injuries to the testicles can cause hypogonadism, too. If your child isn’t showing signs of puberty by the age of 14, talk to their pediatrician. Symptoms of low testosterone can vary considerably, particularly by age. Primary hypogonadism is when there is a problem within the testicles. Secondary hypogonadism is a problem with the signaling in the brain.

The only way to change this, he concludes, is to destigmatise discussions about TD and get men educated around their own hormonal health. Hypogonadism, as testosterone deficiency (TD) is also known, most certainly is “a thing”. It may affect up to 30 per cent of men in the UK at some stage in their lives and, just like Rob, most men aren’t aware of the condition. In fact, in a study of 2000 men last month, 55 per cent of men were ignorant about the symptoms. The lack of education about TD, along with the stigma of seeming “unmanly,” means that 85 per cent of men wait over a year before seeking treatment. Having this knowledge, individuals are empowered to seek timely medical evaluation and discuss the most appropriate and personalized treatment strategies with healthcare professionals.

Another cause of secondary acquired hypogonadism is type 2 diabetes. Type 2 diabetes has been on the rise in recent years with approximately 1 in 10 people diagnosed with the condition. Frequently needing to pee (including during the night), dribbling urine, and painful, burning pee or ejaculation might suggest prostate issues. However, prostate problems often cause no symptoms at all, especially in the case of prostate cancer. Erectile dysfunction affects half of men in their lifetime, according to Dr Foster, but that doesn’t necessarily mean low T. Dr Austen El-Osta, of Imperial College London, is one of the study’s lead researchers, which was a collaboration with the men’s healthcare platform Manual. Still think testosterone therapy turns guys into roid-raging gym rats?

She received a bachelor’s degree in biology and a master’s of public health in nutrition from Tulane University. She received her medical degree from the Louisiana State University School of Medicine and completed her residency in internal medicine at Emory University School of Medicine. Robert Jasmer, MD, is board certified in internal medicine, pulmonary disease, and critical care medicine. He is in private practice in Burlingame, California, where he specializing in interstitial lung disease, pulmonary infections, and obstructive lung disease. His favorite part of practice is the long-term personal relationships he develops with his patients. As part of the faculty, he completed a medical education fellowship and received a certificate in innovation in curriculum design and evaluation.

But that’s a serious problem as men in that age group have a lot on their plate. All these vital body functions take a hit when testosterone levels go down. Furthermore, the increasing cases of low testosterone in young men are quite threatening. Being aware of these symptoms is essential for young men, as early detection and intervention can lead to improved health outcomes. If experiencing one or more of these symptoms, consulting a healthcare professional is a critical step toward addressing potential hormonal imbalances.

The clinical symptoms of hypogonadism are non-specific, making diagnosis challenging in adolescents and young men. Given the numerous pathways within the HPGA and the slow changes foods to increase testosterone levels the hormonal levels, the signs and symptoms suggestive of androgen deficiency take time to clinically manifest. Understanding the causes and implications of low testosterone in young males is essential for maintaining overall health and well-being. Factors such as lifestyle choices, medical conditions, and environmental influences significantly impact hormone levels.

Your hypothalamus releases gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH), which triggers your pituitary gland to release luteinizing hormone (LH). LH then travels to your gonads (testicles or ovaries) and stimulates the production and release of testosterone. Your pituitary also releases follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) to cause sperm production. A 2020 journal article reports that about 33% of men with type 2 diabetes have low testosterone. Researchers have found that type 2 diabetes minimizes pituitary gonadotropin release.