Low testosterone levels are often associated with erectile dysfunction. Testosterone is a hormone responsible for the male secondary sex characteristics. Also, it plays a vital role in the proper development of the mind and body.
What Causes Low Testosterone in Men?
Aging is one of the predisposing factors of low testosterone level. As men ages, testosterone level decreases by about 1% every year after the age of 35. Consequently, around 10% suffer from low testosterone levels every 10 years.
Some men experience greater loss of testosterone levels for several reasons. Lower levels of testosterone will likely predispose men to weight gain, loss of energy and diminished bone density.
Research found a deep connection between low testosterone and erectile dysfunction. Erectile dysfunction is not an isolated problem. However, it serves as a host of other psychological problems such as depression. Low testosterone and impotence affect men’s sexual drive.
What Can Cause Lowered Libido?
Low testosterone levels can cause lowered libido. Here are few ways that can lower testosterone levels in the body.
Excessive Alcohol Consumption
Studies from the New England Journal of Medicine have shown that alcohol and low testosterone in men affect sexual life and can lead to erectile dysfunction. Alcohol suppresses testosterone by increasing the breakdown and removal of the hormone from the blood. As a result, alcohol decreases the rate of testosterone production. For healthy testosterone levels, an average man can have 1-2 alcoholic drinks on a daily basis.
Medications
Certain medications can hinder testosterone production by damaging the nervous, vascular and endocrine system. Medications such as antihypertensive, antidepressant, tranquilizers and anticholinergic drugs can cause low testosterone levels.
Effects of Sarcoidosis
Sarcoidosis is a condition that causes tiny nodules of an inflamed tissue to develop in the vital organs. These smaller nodules bond together to form larger nodules that interfere with the normal body functions. Sarcoidosis of the testicle causes a sharp decrease of testosterone production and lead to infertility.
The production of male testosterone is also affected by other conditions. This includes chronic illness, chemotherapy, pituitary disorders and trauma. Thus, to prevent serious effects of low testosterone level in men, early diagnosis and treatment from a specialist are essential.
