Androgen Deficiency in the Aging Male

What is Androgen Deficiency? As a part of the natural aging process, many men may experience signs and symptoms of decreasing androgen (specifically testosterone) production.

Androgen Deficiency Signs and Symptoms

Commonly referred to as “Andropause,” or ADAM (Androgen Deficiency in the Aging Male), when the adult male gradually begins producing less and less testosterone, often beginning in the third decade of life, men may experience signs such as:

• Changes in their testicle’s texture and/or size
• Erectile Dysfunction (ED) symptoms
• Decreased libido
• A lack of stamina, decreased strength or energy
• Loss of body hair
• Changes in mood
• An inability to concentrate or a decrease in work performance

Such signs and symptoms are but a few examples from a questionnaire regarding low testosterone. If you answered yes to any of these questions, you might be suffering from low levels of testosterone. However, for a more comprehensive exam, please consult your doctor.

Androgen Deficiency Diagnosis

To definitively diagnose low testosterone, blood work to check current testosterone levels as well as to check for other factors which may influence & contribute to low testosterone should be conducted by a licensed healthcare professional. Under most circumstances, a reading of below 200ng/dl is considered candidacy for low testosterone. However, there are certain factors and medical conditions that may cause a low reading and should be discussed with your doctor.

Androgen Deficiency Treatment

If you or someone you know has been diagnosed with ADAM, fortunately there are many treatment options. Mainly consisting of testosterone replacement therapy, it essentially replaces or supplements the deficient testosterone. There are many different means by which testosterone can be administered; from injections, to roll-on applicators to testosterone implants. Speak with your doctor regarding which treatment option is right for you.