Men’s Health #4- Low T: Facts & Myths
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Testosterone affects everything there is to the male body, and psyche. Its levels can drive, or even seriously hinder intimate desires and acts, as well as affect physical appearance and moods. It can even affect bone density, muscle mass, and internally regulated systems, like the gastrointestinal tract. It is estimated in the United States that millions of men currently suffer from what is known as, “Low T.” Thanks to many new doctors and ideas on how to treat the issue, many men can now seek relief from sexual side effects, low energy and fatigue!
Myth #1: Low t only affects a man’s desire for sex. Wrong! While one of the most common symptoms is loss of desire, there are more mark-able symptoms that will plague the patient before that strikes. Loss of energy, depression, and loss of interest in normally fun pastimes. Certain men may also notice a decrease in muscle mass, or a cease in new muscle development. Others may have mood swings.
Fact #1: Low t affects men of all ages. Low t can happen at any age, depending on circumstance. Those suffering due to medical illness may see the changes much earlier in their lives. Many studies have shown that those men battling Type 2 Diabetes also have low t. In certain cases, as body mass increases, testosterone decreases.
Myth #2: Low t is a natural part of aging. Incorrect! It is true that the testes produce less testosterone as men age, but that does not mean that they have to deal with low t! There are simple tests that your family doctor can order to tell you if you’re suffering from this condition, and how to help.
Fact #2: Low t is NOT uncommon. Just the opposite, in fact. It is one of the more common aliments facing the male human race today. After age 60, the percentage of men affected by low t rises almost 15% per year! There are more diagnosed cases in men aged 55 and older, because many men simply wait, and pair it up with the process of aging. If you’re having these symptoms, see you doctor!
Myth #3: Low t only affects the man. Bad mistaken! The unfortunate effects from the loss of desire, intimacy, and mood swings can often touch the partners, family, and close friends of someone suffering from low t.
Fact #3: Sleep apnea plays a role in low t. Sleep apnea affects around 5% of men in the United States. This happens when sleep is disrupted repeatedly by lack of air and breathing regularly, limiting the constantly oxygen supply the brain needs, and the deep sleep cycles the body requires. Because some treatments for low t can actually make sleep apnea worse, you must be upfront and honest with yourself, and your doctor, about all of the issues that are happening.
These are only some of the myths and facts most associated with low t. If you are having any other symptoms, do not wait! Make your appointment, and go talk with your doctor today!