Low testosterone normally happens when the testicles stop making testosterone or when testosterone in the body drops to low levels. Low testosterone comes in two forms. One is usually caused by getting older or a problem with the testicles, while the other is caused when the area of the brain that controls the testicles isn’t working properly.
Whether you would like to know more about the condition, figure out if you have low testosterone or just want to offer help to someone experiencing low testosterone, we’ve got plenty available to help you out. Always speak to your doctor or nurse for personal medical advice. Health information in this website is intended as general information and for UK audiences only. It is not intended to replace a consultation with a HCP, nor is it intended to provide specific medical advice.
The ADAM questionnaire is an internationally recognised assessment tool that can help you to figure out whether you need to see your HCP to have your testosterone levels checked. Please note that the ADAM questionnaire is not in itself a diagnostic tool; only a GP or specialist can diagnose low testosterone by a blood test, and also to rule other medical conditions presenting with similar symptoms.
Testosterone levels typically fall as a person gets older, but this can also be due to other reasons such as a medical condition, physical injury or medication or drug/alcohol abuse. Cancer treatment, an injury to the testicles or Klinefelter syndrome can all lead to a testicular problem that results in low testosterone.
Low testosterone can also be caused by problems with the pituitary gland and the hypothalamus. In this case, the testicles are normal, but they do not work properly. Conditions such as HIV/AIDS, obesity, pituitary disorders or an addiction to opiates can effect the pituitary gland and the hypothalamus, all resulting in reduced testosterone production.
Testosterone is produced naturally by the testicles and is essential for physical and mental wellbeing.
As well as its role in sperm production and sex drive, testosterone is also vital for strong muscles and bones.
The ADAM questionnaire is an internationally recognised assessment tool that can help you to figure out whether you need to see your HCP to have your testosterone levels checked. Please note that the ADAM questionnaire is not in itself a diagnostic tool; only a GP or specialist can diagnose low testosterone, and rule out other medical conditions that may present with similar symptoms, using a blood test.