The Best Illustrated Testosterone Book Now Available on Amazon Nelson Vergel, a well-known author of men’s health and hormone books, has published his fourth testosterone book, Beyond Testosterone. Nelson Vergel holds a chemical engineering degree and an MBA. After an HIV diagnosis over 33 years ago, he explored therapies to reverse wasting syndrome to save his life and those of his peers, leading him to co-author “Built to Survive: The Clinical Use of Anabolic Steroids for HIV+ Men and Women”,” a book that became the leading wasting treatment guide in the HIV field. He has been a member of several NIH and pharmaceutical advisory groups and FDA review panels. Nelson also founded the Body Positive Wellness Clinic and Program for Wellness Restoration in Houston, providing health education and services to HIV+ people. To expand help to the general population, he wrote “Testosterone: A Man’s Guide” and created ExcelMale.com and DiscountedLabs.com to provide men’s health education and access to affordable blood testing. His latest project aims to improve access to testosterone and hormone replacement treatments around the world by providing the largest physician directory in the world. About the Book: Beyond Testosterone This 427-page illustrated book covers all aspects of testosterone replacement therapy, including the basics of testosterone, testosterone in women, and how to increase testosterone levels naturally. It also covers the diagnosis of low testosterone and the different treatment options available by prescription in the United States and around the world. Moreover, "Beyond Testosterone" goes in-depth on the benefits of testosterone replacement therapy, side-effect management, and the effects of testosterone on the prostate and cardiovascular system. The book also reviews the uses of human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) and discusses whether estradiol is an enemy or a friend of men. It covers the use of anastrozole and how to prevent and treat gynecomastia, acne, hair loss, water retention, high blood pressure, erectile dysfunction, and low libido. It also explores the clinical use of FDA-approved anabolic steroids for different conditions, like wasting and other diseases. Furthermore, "Beyond Testosterone" provides information on fertility and HPTA recovery after anabolic steroid use or after stopping testosterone treatment. It also covers growth hormone-releasing hormones, DHEA supplementation, thyroid dysfunction diagnosis and treatment, and maintaining good mental health. Additionally, it provides tips on nutrition for muscle gain and fat loss, exercise, and how to monitor TRT lab tests. Lastly, the book includes a section on slack testosterone in Spanish, interviews with different experts, and resources. This book is an excellent resource for men who are considering testosterone replacement therapy or are already on TRT. It is a comprehensive guide that provides information on all aspects of TRT, from diagnosis to treatment to recovery. With "Beyond Testosterone," men can have a better understanding of their options and make informed decisions about their health.    Beyond Testosterone: Book Contents Introduction How to Use This Book Testosterone 101 Testosterone in Women How to Increase Testosterone Naturally Benefits of Testosterone Replacement Diagnosis of Hypogonadism (Low Testosterone) Testosterone Treatment Options Testosterone Side Effect Management Testosterone and the Prostate Testosterone and the Cardiovascular System Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (HCG) Estradiol: The Other Male Hormone Gynecomastia: Not a Simple Diagnosis Dihydrotestosterone: Should We Be Concerned About This Testosterone Metabolite? TRT-Related Acne and Hair Loss TRT-Related Water Retention and High Blood Pressure Erectile Dysfunction/Low Libido Clinical Use of FDA-Approved Anabolic Steroids Fertility and HPTA Recovery Growth Hormone-Releasing Products Thyroid Dysfunction: Diagnosis and Management Mental Health Nutritional Considerations Exercise Considerations Nelson's Tips for TRT Patients How to Monitor TRT Lab Tests La Testosterona: Información en Español Expert Interviews TRT Resources "Beyond Testosterone" is more than a medical guide; it's a tribute to the collective wisdom of the ExcelMale.com community, capturing the essence of community-driven health discussion. Each topic is enhanced with QR codes for updated information and practical tips, making it a dynamic tool for anyone seeking to understand the broader implications of testosterone in health. This book is indispensable for patients exploring testosterone therapy and clinicians aiming to enhance their therapeutic practices. It promises to empower readers with knowledge and inspire them to take charge of their health. Click here to buy: Beyond Testosterone by Nelson Vergel Click here to buy: US: Buy Now Canada: Buy Now UK: Buy Now Australia: Buy Now Spain: Buy Now Germany: Buy Now ALSO AVAILABLE ON THESE DEVICES FIRE TABLETS Fire HD 8 (8th Generation) Fire 7 (9th Generation) Fire HD 10 (9th Generation) Fire HD 8 (10th Generation) Fire HD 10 (11th Generation) Fire HD 10 Plus Fire 7 (12th Generation) Fire HD 8 (12th Generation) Fire HD 8 Plus   FREE KINDLE READING APPS Kindle for Android Phones Kindle for Android Tablets Kindle for iPhone Kindle for iPad Kindle for Mac Kindle for PC Kindle for Web

Take Control of Your Heart Health with an LpA Blood Test You likely know that keeping an eye on low-density lipoprotein (LDL) levels is important. But there could be more to this subject than you first realized. In this blog post, we will look closely at LDL and lipoprotein A. We will discuss how these factors contribute to the development of atherosclerosis. We will refer to recent studies from the European Atherosclerosis Society to help us understand their impact on heart health. We will explore how this new research changes what we know about cardiovascular health. We will look at different studies and results to give you a complete look at how LDL affects heart health. We will also talk about possible treatments for people with high LDL levels. Plus, we will share tips on how to keep cholesterol levels healthy. For more information on LDL and cardiovascular disease, read this blog post. We look at the latest studies in this area. Our goal is to give readers useful info that can help them prevent cardiovascular disease. What is Lipoprotein A? A type of low-density lipoprotein called lipoprotein (a), or Lp(a), contains a protein called apolipoprotein (a), known as apo(a). Lipoproteins are made of fats and proteins. They help carry cholesterol in our blood to different cells in the body. Research shows that Lp(a) is a risk factor for heart disease and related problems like atherosclerosis, coronary heart disease, and stroke. Another protein, apolipoprotein b-100, or apoB100, works with apo(a). It is important for the structure and function of Lp(a). Lp(a) causes inflammation. This makes it more likely for plaques to break apart. It can also narrow the aortic valve, a condition called aortic stenosis. Lp(a) leads to long-lasting inflammation, which can cause calcium to build up on the valve and make it stiff. A person's Lp(a) level in the blood is mostly due to genes, not lifestyle. This means that diet and exercise don't change Lp(a) levels. However, monitoring and managing Lp(a) is very important to avoid problems like reduced blood flow and to keep heart health, as it is a risk factor for cardiovascular disease. Lipoprotein A (Lp(a)) is a type of lipoprotein that moves cholesterol and fats in the blood. It is made up of apolipoprotein (ApoA) and low-density lipoprotein (LDL). Scientists have found a connection between LDL, known as "bad" cholesterol, and a higher risk of cardiovascular disease. Lp(a) is like LDL, but it has an extra protein called ApoA. This extra component makes it harder for the body to break it down. The European Atherosclerosis Society suggests that checking Lp(a) levels should be done regularly with lipid panel tests. High levels of Lp(a) are linked to a greater risk of heart disease and stroke. Research shows that people with higher Lp(a) levels face more risk for these health issues, even if their total cholesterol and LDL levels look good. A person with Lp(a) levels between 31 to 50 mg/dL is seen as being at high risk. It's important to know that having high Lp(a) does not mean you will get heart disease. However, if you have higher than average levels, you should have your doctor or healthcare provider check on you more often. This could help avoid problems later on. Research shows that changing some habits can help lower your Lp(a) naturally. You can do this by exercising more, eating a healthy diet, keeping a healthy weight, reducing stress, and quitting smoking. These changes can lower Lp(a) over time without needing medicine or supplements. Checking your Lipoprotein A levels can give you valuable information about your overall health. It can help you make better choices to protect yourself from heart diseases in the future. Understanding what actions you need to take now can prevent serious medical problems later on. Complex lipoprotein A is linked to heart problems, so measuring it is necessary. It's important to know how this measurement can help your health. Measuring Lipoprotein A can bring several benefits. Why Measure Lipoprotein A? Lp(a) is a type of LDL particle. It carries cholesterol in the body. The levels of Lp(a) can show risks for cardiovascular disease, strokes, and other health problems. Testing Lp(a) levels is helpful. It helps in finding possible concerns about heart health, strokes, and other medical issues. The European Atherosclerosis Society found that high Lp(a) levels raise the risk of coronary artery disease. Researchers discovered this link in 1993. They found that people with high Lp(a) levels faced a greater risk of heart disease and heart attacks compared to those with normal levels. We don't completely know why high levels of Lp(a) can increase the chance of cardiovascular disease. Some ideas suggest it may be because Lp(a) can attach to plasminogen. This stops blood from clotting, making blood vessels more likely to get damaged. Studies have shown that higher Lp(a) levels are connected to thicker artery walls. This can lead to a higher risk of blood clots, heart attacks, or strokes. To find out if you might have a higher risk of heart disease, it's important to check your Lipoprotein A level. A lipid profile panel, also called a "lipid panel," is a simple blood test your doctor can do. This test measures your total cholesterol, good cholesterol (HDL), bad cholesterol (LDL), triglycerides, and Lp(a). The results from the lipid profile panel are usually shown in milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL).   We suggest talking to a doctor before deciding on any treatment based only on test results. For example, if someone has high levels of Lipoprotein A, they might need to take statins. They may also need to make lifestyle changes like exercising more and eating healthier foods. These steps can lower their risk linked to high levels of lipoprotein. A proactive approach may help prevent heart diseases related to these issues, as shown in clinical trials. Monitoring lipoprotein A is crucial for your health. You should closely monitor your levels. Lipoprotein A levels above normal may indicate a health issue. Let's take a closer look at what this means. High Levels of Lipoprotein A Lpa is a type of cholesterol found in your blood. When Lp(a) levels are high, it may raise the risk of heart problems, strokes, and other health issues. This underscores the importance of monitoring it closely. Learning how to control high levels of this lipoprotein, also called high levels of LP, is key to lowering the risk of these diseases. It is important to recognize the two types of Lp(a)—oxidized and non-oxidized—when measuring them. Research indicates that a higher risk of coronary artery disease is associated with the oxidized form. On the other hand, the non-oxidized form does not seem to impact heart health. Lipoprotein(a)-Lpa Blood TestLimits: High levels of Lp(a) can increase your risk of a heart attack or stroke. This happens because plaque forms in blood vessels over time. The buildup makes it harder for blood to flow to the lower body. High Lp(a) levels can also harm organs like the pancreas and liver. This may raise the chances of diabetes or kidney issues. Additionally, people with high Lp(a) may feel inflammation in their body. This can lead to joint pain or chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS). Your doctor may suggest some lifestyle changes, like eating a balanced diet and getting regular exercise, to help lower high Lp(a) levels. If needed, they may also give you medications, like statins. It is important to take these drugs with medical supervision to avoid any possible side effects. If your lifestyle changes are insufficient to manage the blockages caused by plaque buildup, surgery may be a viable option. However, this should only be a choice after carefully considering the best treatment options for your situation. In the end, knowing why Lp(a) levels are high and how it impacts overall health can help people understand their medical needs. This understanding allows them to live without issues related to this condition. Monitoring your lipoprotein A levels is important. It helps reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease and stroke. Next, let’s explore what low lipoprotein A levels can mean for our health. Low Levels of Lpa Healthy Lp(a) levels are usually between 0 and 30 mg/dL. If the Lp(a) levels are lower than normal, it could mean there is a health problem or a genetic issue. It's a good idea to talk to a doctor in that case. For people with low Lpa levels, extra tests or treatments are not usually needed. The chance of having coronary artery disease is low for them. However, if Lp(a) levels are high, it is a good idea to see a doctor. This way, you can discuss possible treatments. Genetics can strongly influence Lp(a) levels in the body. Some versions of the gene that produces lipoprotein A may cause higher levels in the blood. Many people only find out about these genetic variations after they start to feel symptoms. By then, it might be too late to take preventive steps like changing their lifestyle or using medicines to lower cholesterol and boost heart health. That’s why it’s essential to talk to your healthcare provider about your family history and any risks for high Lp(a) levels. This conversation can help find the best plan for you and your family members. Using a simple blood test, you can check your Lp (a) levels. You can choose to go to a doctor's office or use a testing kit you can find online or in stores across America. Getting your results is fast and easy. Just follow the instructions from the manufacturer on the kit. This includes collecting a small sample from a fingerprick or a blood draw and processing it properly. You will have your results within minutes. If you find that your levels are high, it is good to see a doctor. If your levels are low, you are likely safe, but you might still want to look into any other health issues you may have. But having low lipoprotein A levels can be good for your health. The best way to make sure you have enough lipoprotein A is to get tested.   How to Buy a Lpa Blood Test A simple blood test can check the levels of Lp(a). This level is a mix of cholesterol and proteins. Testing for Lp(a) can help you understand your risk for cardiovascular disease, stroke, and other serious health issues. There might be a link between high Lp(a) levels and a higher risk of several health issues. These include coronary artery disease, stroke, peripheral arterial disease, blood clots, and even some cancers. High Lp(a) levels can affect how blood clots and increase inflammation. This can raise the chances of getting coronary artery disease, stroke, peripheral arterial disease, blood clots, and certain cancers. Low levels of Lp(a) can mean a lower risk of getting diseases linked to bad heart health. This makes it important to check when looking at someone's overall heart health. In the United States, you can take a simple blood test to check for Lp(a) without going to the doctor. You usually get the results in just 1-2 days after they take your sample. This makes it easy to check your results from home or work. You can choose to take 2 ml of blood from either your arm or finger for the test, based on what feels most comfortable for you. DiscountedLabs.com offers a cheap lipoprotein A test. Anyone in the U.S. can buy it without going to a doctor or using insurance. Click here to buy a Lpa blood test FAQs Related to Lpa Blood Test   What is the best treatment for lipoprotein A? The best way to treat high lipoprotein A (Lp(a)) levels is to reduce the risk factors. A healthy diet, regular exercise, and managing stress are important for this. If these changes aren't enough to lower your Lp(a) levels, doctors might prescribe medications like statins or niacin. Another option is lipoprotein apheresis, which works like dialysis to take out excess Lp(a) and LDL-cholesterol from the blood. Testosterone replacement therapy may also help in lowering lipoprotein A. Testosterone therapy can lower lipoprotein a levels. A study tested normal men with testosterone alone or with the aromatase inhibitor testolactone. This showed how their Lp(a) levels changed when testosterone turned into estradiol. The average Lp(a) values dropped by 37% with testosterone alone. Combining testosterone with testolactone resulted in a 28% decrease. This means that testosterone mainly reduces Lp(a) in men through its androgenic effects, not from turning into estradiol. Treating hypothyroidism with the right thyroid therapy can help improve lipoprotein A levels. A study found that people with hypothyroidism had lower HDL-cholesterol levels. At the same time, their other lipid levels and Lp(a) levels were higher compared to other people without hypothyroidism. This study also showed that in hypothyroid patients, Lp(a) levels had a positive relationship with TSH levels. Talk to your doctor about the best plan for you. This should be based on your personal health needs and goals. What can cause lipoprotein A to be high? Blood has a type of cholesterol called lipoprotein A (LP(A)). High levels of LP(A) can be caused by genetics, some health problems, and lifestyle choices like smoking or a poor diet. Having high levels of LP(A) might mean a greater risk for cardiovascular disease and stroke. This is especially true if you have familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) or signs of coronary heart disease. To reduce your LP(A) levels, it's important to make healthy lifestyle changes. This includes eating a balanced diet that is low in saturated fats and exercising often. If you feel concerned about your LP(A) levels, talking to a medical professional is the best way to manage it properly. What does high lipoprotein A indicate? People with high Lp(a) have a greater chance of getting heart disease, stroke, and peripheral artery disease. Lp(a) is made up of an LDL molecule and an apolipoprotein. Blood tests can show high levels of Lp(a). Research connects high levels of Lp(a) to a higher risk of heart problems and strokes. Right now, we don’t have any proven treatments for high Lp(a). So, it is important to make lifestyle changes. Eating healthy foods that are low in saturated fat and exercising regularly can help lower Lp(a) levels naturally. How can I lower my Lpa blood test result naturally? Making changes to your lifestyle can help lower your low-density lipoprotein (LDL), which is often called "bad" cholesterol. A diet that is low in saturated fat is important. Regular exercise is key, too, and staying at a healthy weight also helps reduce LDL levels. You should also add foods that are high in soluble fiber, like oats, legumes, and apples, to your meals. Finally, quitting smoking and cutting back on alcohol will also improve your overall health while helping to lower LDL levels. Conclusion Lipoprotein A is an important marker for heart health. A simple blood test can measure your lipoprotein A levels. A doctor or healthcare provider should explain your test results. If your lipoprotein A is high, you should consider changing your lifestyle. This could mean exercising more, eating healthy foods, and managing stress to lower your risk of heart problems. If your levels are low and you have other symptoms, more tests may be needed. Knowing about lipoprotein A can help you make better choices for your health and wellbeing. Reference: Tsimikas S, Marcovina SM. Ancestry, lipoprotein(a), and cardiovascular risk thresholds: JACC review topic of the week. J Am Coll Cardiol 2022;80:934-46. Simantiris S, Antonopoulos AS, Papastamos C, et al. Lipoprotein(a) and inflammation- pathophysiological links and clinical implications for cardiovascular disease. J Clin Lipidol 2023;17:55-63. Fanshawe AE, Ibrahim M. The current status of lipoprotein(a) in pregnancy: a literature review. J Cardiol 2013;61:99-106. Kotwal A, Cortes T, Genere N, et al. Treatment of thyroid dysfunction and serum lipids: a systematic review and meta-analysis. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2020;Dec 1:[ePub ahead of print]. Laron Z. Increase of serum lipoprotein(a), an adverse effect of growth hormone treatment. Growth Horm IGF Res 2022;Sep 9:[ePub ahead of print]. Kronenberg F. Causes and consequences of lipoprotein(a) abnormalities in kidney disease. Clin Exp Nephrol 2014;18:234-7. Zmumda et al.,Testosterone decreases lipoprotein(a) in men. Am J Cardiol. 1996 Jun 1;77(14):1244-7. Kaliaperumal et al. Relationship between Lipoprotein(a) and Thyroid Hormones in Hypothyroid Patients J Clin Diagn Res. 2014 Feb; 8(2): 37–39.

Measuring Testosterone in Women Introduction to Testosterone Testosterone is a hormone found in both men and women. It is important for many body functions. Measuring testosterone levels in women can be hard because their levels are lower than men's and can change throughout their menstrual cycle. How Menstrual Cycle Affects Testosterone Testosterone levels in women change during the menstrual cycle. The highest levels are usually around ovulation. Studies show that both total testosterone (TT) and free testosterone (FT) peak during the middle of the cycle. However, testosterone levels vary during the rest of the cycle. Some studies find higher levels in the follicular phase, while others find higher levels in the luteal phase. Many studies show no significant change throughout the cycle. These differences can be due to study methods, participant differences, and testing techniques. Despite these variations, the mid-cycle peak is a common finding. Normal Testosterone Ranges in Women Normal testosterone levels in women depend on their age and menstrual cycle phase. Using advanced methods like liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS), researchers have found the following ranges for healthy women aged 18–49: Total testosterone: 15-46 ng/dL Free testosterone: 1.2-6.4 pg/mL Bioavailable testosterone: 1.12–7.62 ng/dL During the menstrual cycle, total testosterone rises from about 15.6 ng/dL in the early luteal phase to a peak of 43.6 ng/dL at mid-cycle. Free testosterone rises from 9.00 pg/mL to 15.6 pg/mL. Testosterone levels also decline with age, with lower levels after menopause compared to reproductive years. Establishing exact reference ranges is challenging due to assay differences, menstrual cycle changes, and factors like body mass index. Testosterone Peaks During Ovulation Testosterone levels in women show a small peak around ovulation, usually at the middle of the cycle. The increase in luteinizing hormone (LH) before ovulation is what causes this peak. The increase varies between individuals, but studies using sensitive methods like LC-MS/MS consistently detect this mid-cycle peak. The day-to-day variability in testosterone levels is often greater than the ovulatory peak itself, making it hard to see in some cases. Measuring Testosterone: Mass Spectrometry vs. Immunoassays Two common methods for measuring testosterone are mass spectrometry and immunoassays. Immunoassays, like ELISA, are high-throughput, low-cost, and easy to use but can lack specificity. Mass spectrometry, such as LC-MS/MS, provides higher sensitivity and specificity and can measure multiple analytes simultaneously. However, it has higher costs and requires more expertise. Importance of Mass Spectrometry Sensitivity Mass spectrometry is crucial for accurately measuring low testosterone levels in women. Traditional immunoassays often lack the precision needed. Mass spectrometry methods like LC-MS/MS offer superior sensitivity, enabling better assessment of androgen status in women and diagnosing testosterone imbalances. This helps establish appropriate reference ranges and guide clinical decisions. Luteal Phase Hormonal Shifts After ovulation, the luteal phase begins and lasts until the next menstrual period. Progesterone levels rise significantly due to the corpus luteum. Estrogen levels also increase during the mid-luteal phase before declining. If pregnancy does not occur, both progesterone and estrogen levels drop sharply, leading to menstruation. Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) levels decrease during the luteal phase. Follicular Phase Testosterone Trends During the follicular phase, starting from the first day of menstruation to ovulation, testosterone levels tend to be lower compared to other phases. However, they gradually increase as the phase progresses, peaking before ovulation. Women with longer follicular phases often have higher testosterone levels, while shorter phases are associated with lower levels. Testosterone Decline After Menopause Testosterone levels decline with age, reaching lower levels after menopause. This decrease can lead to symptoms like reduced bone density, lower energy, and depression. Some doctors prescribe testosterone therapy to alleviate menopausal symptoms, although there is no FDA-approved testosterone product for women. Sleep Patterns and Hormone Levels Sleep and hormone levels are closely linked. Circadian rhythms have an impact on melatonin, which regulates sleep. Hormonal changes during the menstrual cycle can affect sleep. Progesterone, which peaks during the luteal phase, can cause drowsiness, while its drop before menstruation can lead to sleep disturbances. Poor sleep can disrupt hormone production, leading to health issues like metabolic problems and increased appetite. Optimal Hormone Testing Timing in Women The best time to measure hormones depends on the specific hormone and the purpose of testing. For fertility assessment, FSH and estradiol are tested on day 3 of the cycle. Estradiol and progesterone are measured around days 19–22 to check for luteal phase defects. LH levels peak around ovulation, while progesterone rises after ovulation. Perimenopausal hormone patterns are erratic, making single-day measurements less reliable. Menstrual Cycle Hormone Imbalance Symptoms Hormonal imbalances can cause irregular periods, heavy bleeding, and missed periods. Skin issues like acne, digestive problems, mood swings, and sleep disturbances are common. Other symptoms include low libido, vaginal dryness, infertility, weight changes, and hair growth or loss. Persistent or severe symptoms may indicate an underlying endocrine disorder that needs further evaluation. How Women Can Buy Their Own Testosterone Test Without a Doctor Visit on DiscountedLabs.com Women who want to check their testosterone levels can easily do so without needing a doctor's visit. DiscountedLabs.com offers an affordable and convenient way to order blood tests online. Here’s how you can get your testosterone test: Visit the Website: Go to DiscountedLabs.com. Find the Testosterone Test: Use the search bar or navigate through the hormone testing section to find the testosterone test. Choose Your Test: Select the specific testosterone test you need. You can choose between total testosterone, free testosterone, or a comprehensive hormone panel. Add to Cart: Once you’ve selected your test, add it to your cart and proceed to checkout. Create an Account: If you’re a new user, you’ll need to create an account. Returning customers can simply log in. Enter Your Information: Fill in your personal details and complete the payment process. Get Your Lab Order: After your purchase, you will receive a lab order via email. This order allows you to get your blood drawn at a local lab. Visit a Lab: Take your lab order to a nearby partner lab. You can find a lab near you on the DiscountedLabs website. Get Your Results: After your blood draw, you’ll receive your test results online within a few days. You can review your results and share them with your healthcare provider if needed. By using DiscountedLabs.com, you can take control of your health and get the information you need without the hassle of scheduling a doctor's appointment.   Sources: Testosterone reference ranges in normally cycling healthy premenopausal women PEAK TOTAL AND FREE TESTOSTERONE IN WOMEN OF REPRODUCTIVE AGE ARE HIGHER THAN PREVIOUSLY REPORTED What Are “Normal” Testosterone Levels for Women?

The hypothalamus in the male body secretes GnRH pulsatilely to stimulate the release of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) from the pituitary gland. LH gets to the testes through the bloodstream and binds to an LH receptor. This starts a chain of biochemical reactions that change LDL cholesterol into testosterone. The bloodstream carries the secreted testosterone from the testes to target tissues, where it produces its biological effects. Testosterone Production, Action, and Clinical Manifestations of Testosterone Deficiency in the Male Body Testosterone Production in the Male Body The pituitary gland releases follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) in response to the hypothalamus' pulsatile secretion of GnRH. LH gets to the testes through the bloodstream and binds to an LH receptor. This starts a chain of biochemical reactions that turn LDL cholesterol into testosterone. The bloodstream carries the secreted testosterone from the testes to target tissues, where it produces its biological effects. Hypogonadism: Testosterone Deficiency Hypogonadism is the inability of the testes to produce physiological levels of testosterone. Primary hypogonadism refers to hypogonadism resulting from abnormalities in the testes, while secondary hypogonadism refers to a defect in the hypothalamic-pituitary axis.   Dual or mixed forms can also occur. If an insufficient amount of testosterone reaches the target tissues, manifestations of testosterone deficiency may appear in the liver, muscle, and adipose tissue. Mechanism of Testosterone Action Effects on Liver and Muscle Testosterone binds directly to the androgen receptor in the liver. In the liver, testosterone enhances protein synthesis. While in muscle, testosterone enhances muscle mass. Given its role in muscle, men with reduced levels of testosterone may complain of muscle weakness, lethargy, or decreased energy. Conversion to Estradiol: Effects on Brain and Bone In other tissues, testosterone must first undergo conversion before becoming biologically active. Estradiol binds to the estrogen receptor following the aromatization of testosterone in the brain and bone. Testosterone enhances bone development by promoting bone accretion. Men with reduced testosterone levels may develop osteoporosis. Testosterone acts in the brain to stabilize mood, enhance libido, and may even have a positive effect on cognition. As a result, men with testosterone deficiency can experience mood changes, a lack of motivation, and reduced libido. Conversion to Dihydrotestosterone: Effects on Skin, Hair, and Sexual Organs 5-alpha-reductase changes testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT) so that it can bind to androgen receptors on hair, skin, and the prostate. Testosterone supports the growth of facial, body, axillary, and pubic hair in the adult. However, in some genetically susceptible men, testosterone may also inhibit hair growth in some areas of the scalp, leading to baldness. In the sexual organs, testosterone contributes to penile growth, spermatogenesis, and prostate growth and function. Profound hypogonadism interferes with the vascular function of the penis (corpora) and may lead to erectile dysfunction and a decrease in orgasm quality. Other Effects of Testosterone Other effects of testosterone include promotion of erythropoiesis and regulation of immune function. Clinical Manifestations of Testosterone Deficiency Men with testosterone deficiency may experience: Muscle weakness, lethargy, or decreased energy Mood changes, lack of motivation, and reduced libido Osteoporosis Erectile dysfunction and decreased orgasm quality Anemia due to decreased erythropoiesis Altered immune function Summary In summary, testosterone production plays a key role in many body tissues, and testosterone deficiency can result in a myriad of clinical manifestations. Buy a cheap testosterone test online