Aging is a hot topic, especially amongst Baby Boomers, who generally crave an active life style and sexual fulfillment.  A key element in a man’s vitality is his testosterone level.  Testosterone is a steroid hormone which is made in the testes in males and in the ovaries in women. The hormone production is regulated by hormones released by the brain. In men testosterone plays a key role in the development of male productive tissues such as the testis and prostate as well as promoting secondary sexual characteristics such as increased muscle, bone mass, and growth of body hair.  In addition, testosterone is essential for health and well being, as well as the prevention of osteoporosis.  Some researchers say testosterone levels peek in the teen years, others say around the age of forty. (mid life crisis related?) There appears to be significant variance from one man to another. Testosterone levels typically range from 250 ng/dl and 850 ng/dl.

Since testosterone levels are so important to a man it would seem to be important for a man to know what his testosterone level is.  It is a simple test. Some motivators for checking out your testosterone level would be low sex drive, erectile dysfunction, depression, irritability, limited energy, lack of motivation, etc…  I have counseled many a depressed man and have found that low testosterone often was one of the contributing factors.

Various theorists address the issue of the rapidity of decline of testosterone in men as they age.  A recent study helped to dispel the myth associating age and rate of testosterone decline. “Declining testosterone levels are not an inevitable part of the aging process, as many people think” says Gary Wittert, M.D., co- author of a significant study composed of 1382 men ranging in age from 35 to 80. The biggest factors in testosterone decline were related to obesity, depression, and smoking. Incidentally single men had a greater testosterone decline than married men.  Wittert attributed this to the fact that married men tend to be healthier and happier than unmarried men.  Also, “regular sexual activity tends to increase testosterone”.

If you feel you have the above stated symptoms you may want to go and have your testosterone level checked.  If it comes back low you should have a consultation with your doctor to determine whether various forms of testosterone enhancement are right for you.  Injections, creams, and patches are available.

Certainly there are benefits for some men to raise their testosterone levels.  There are also potential risks involved.  The Mayo Clinic lists these:

1. Contribute to sleep apnea.
2. Cause your body to make too many red blood cells which can increase the risk of heart disease.
3. Cause acne or other skin reactions.
4. Stimulate non cancerous growth of the prostate and possibly stimulate growth of existing prostate cancer.
5. Enlarge breasts.
6. Limit sperm production or cause testicle shrinkage.

Respected Reader, male or interested female in a man’s health and vitality, testosterone is important for a man’s well being and performance. It may well be of value to see what your testosterone level is, just as you, hopefully, regularly have your cholesterol checked. Men need to know all they can about how, and why, their body functions as it does. Knowledge is power!

Dr. Stathas can be reached at 706-473-1780. Email: Stathas@plantationcable.net.  Web site: drstathas.googlepages.com.  His blog: drstathas.com.