Adult Hypogonadism
When hypogonadism presents itself in adulthood, the physical appearance of the man can be significantly altered. Moreover, normal reproductive functioning may cease, while emotionally, a man can exhibit changes similar to menopausal women.
Symptoms of this type of adult hypogonadism can include:
- Loss of muscle mass
- Increase in body fat
- Development of male breasts
- Failure of facial and body hair to grow
- Shrinking and softening of the testicles
- Loss of energy and sexual desire
- Erectile dysfunction
- Menopausal emotions including hot flashes, irritability and mood swings
- Depression
- Onset of osteoporosis
Hypogonadism Treatment
If you suspect that you may have hypogonadism, it is important to discuss the issue with your health care provider or fertility doctor. A simple blood test can evaluate your testosterone levels and indicate whether your testosterone production is deficient.
However, for a proper diagnosis to be made, it will be necessary to be assessed by an endocrinologist. Once the disorder has been confirmed, you can begin treatment for hypogonadism.
Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) is the main form of treatment used in men with hypogonadism. TRT looks to replace your diminished testosterone levels with synthetic testosterone supplements. How effective testosterone therapy will be, though, depends on what type of hypogonadism you have.
Treament for primary hypogonadism
Those men affected by primary hypogonadism will be able to increase their testosterone production through the use of TRT. However, it is unlikely that your fertility will return, making it necessary to utilize ART in order to conceive.
Treament for primary hypogonadism
Men with secondary hypogonadism usually respond better to testosterone treatment and are often able to recover their fertility through the use of a testosterone supplement.
TRT can be administered a variety of ways, with testosterone gel and the testosterone patch being two of the most popular methods. However, injectable testosterone is also available as are oral testosterone supplements, although this particular method is often avoided nowadays due to the undesirable side effects associated with it.
Support Groups
In addition to TRT, psychological counseling may also be beneficial for both you and your partner. In many areas, support groups are available that will allow you to meet other men dealing with the same difficulties as you.
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