Male hypogonadism refers to a condition in which the testicles don’t produce enough testosterone, the primary male sex hormone and where doctors prescribe testosterone replacement therapy (TRT). It can be categorized into two types: primary hypogonadism and central hypogonadism. Primary hypogonadism, also called hypergonadotropic hypogonadism, results from problems with the testes themselves, leading to low testosterone levels.

Central hypogonadism, on the other hand, occurs when the hypothalamus or pituitary gland fails to signal the testes to produce testosterone properly. Both types of hypogonadism can cause a variety of symptoms that significantly impact a man’s quality of life.

Signs and Symptoms of Hypogonadism

In primary or hypergonadotropic hypogonadism, testosterone production is reduced due to insufficient or damaged testes. The symptoms of this condition can be diverse and may include fatigue, reduced libido, erectile dysfunction, and infertility.

In addition, individuals may experience loss of muscle mass, increased body fat, mood changes, and decreased bone density. These symptoms are due to a deficiency of testosterone, which plays an important role in maintaining physical and mental health.

Central hypogonadism is usually caused by problems with the hypothalamus or pituitary gland, but the clinical picture may vary slightly. In addition to the common symptoms of low testosterone, patients with central hypogonadism may also experience other symptoms related to hormone imbalance. These may include headaches, blurred or double vision, and a milky discharge from the breasts (galactorrhea).

In fact, pituitary or hypothalamic dysfunction can interfere with the secretion of other hormones that regulate various bodily functions, leading to more widespread endocrine problems.

In people with central hypogonadism, symptoms may be more complex due to the interaction of various hormones, and further investigations are often required to determine whether the underlying cause is caused by a pituitary tumor, hypothalamic dysfunction, or other systemic problems.

Testosterone replacement therapy

Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) is the cornerstone of treatment for men with hypogonadism, especially those with primary hypogonadism or low testosterone levels due to aging. The goal of TRT is to restore normal testosterone levels and reduce symptoms associated with testosterone deficiency.

Common forms of TRT

TRT has been shown to improve energy levels, mood, libido, and overall quality of life in men with low testosterone levels. However, it is not without potential risks, including an increased risk of cardiovascular events, sleep apnea, and polycythemia, and therefore requires close monitoring throughout treatment.

Clinical Guidelines for Testosterone Therapy

In January 2020, the American College of Physicians (ACP) published clinical guidelines for the use of testosterone replacement therapy for adult men with age-related declines in testosterone levels.

The purpose of these recommendations is to enable clinicians to make evidence-based decisions about when and how to initiate testosterone treatment and ensure that treatment is appropriate for each patient.

The main principles are developed in cooperation with American Doctors Academy (AAFP), emphasizing their wide specialized support.

According to ACP’s recommendation, testosterone therapy should be confirmed that the testosterone level is low in consideration of the symptoms, but should not be used without discrimination. The decision to start TRT should include a careful evaluation of the patient’s symptoms, laboratory results, and overall health. Regular monitoring is needed to monitor for efficacy and side effects.

In conclusion, male sexual functional symptoms -primary or central or central may have a significant effect on health, but testosterone replenishment is a solution that restores hormone balance and improves symptoms.

Modifying clinical manuals guarantees that testosterone therapy is used safely and efficiently and maximizes the benefits to minimizing risks. Here is the homepage of the trt clinic in Indonesia.