Many men with borderline low testosterone also have symptoms of depression, according to researchers from George Washington University.
Their study involved 200 men with borderline low testosterone, defined as total testosterone levels between 200 and 350 ng/dl.
Fifty-six percent of the men had “significant” depressive symptoms, had been diagnosed with depression, or used an antidepressant.
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The men also tended to be obese and got little exercise.
In fact, just over half the men said that except for walking, they did not exercise at all. And 82% were either overweight or obese.
Sexual issues were also common among the participants. About 89% had erectile dysfunction (ED), the inability to get and keep an erection firm enough for sexual activity. Sixty-nine percent had a low sex drive.
Problems with energy, concentration, and sleep were also reported.
Some men with low testosterone are treated with testosterone replacement therapy. However, lifestyle changes, like watching one’s weight and staying physically active, can help, too.
Still, it’s important for men who have depressive symptoms to talk to a doctor. Some men benefit from seeing a counselor or therapist.
The researchers presented their results in March at the Endocrine Society’s annual meeting in San Diego, California. As the findings have not yet been published in a peer-reviewed journal, they are considered preliminary.
Resources
Endocrine Society
Westley, Christopher, et al.
“Men Referred for Borderline Testosterone Levels Have High Rates of Depression”
(Abstract SAT-130, presented March 7, 2015 at the Endocrine Society's 97th Annual Meeting and Expo, San Diego, CA)
http://press.endocrine.org/doi/abs/10.1210/endo-meetings.2015.RE.11.SAT-130
MedPage Today
Susman, Ed
“Men With Low Testosterone Level Show Signs of Depression”
(Last updated: March 9, 2015)
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