Manliness
“A man’s got to have a code, a creed to live by, no matter his job.” –John Wayne. As the embodiment of manliness during and after his heyday, John Wayne characterized physical, emotional, and moral masculinity. His very essence oozed strength, vigor, and machismo that many men sought to emulate. His height (6’4” in his prime), physique (muscular), and grit (true) created a standard that defined maleness for generations.
Our definition of manliness, then, involves strength (physical and moral), toughness (physical and mental), and vigor (physical and sexual), but at a certain age those attributes may begin to decline. If we’re lucky enough to experience the natural and inevitable process of aging, our bodies go through a myriad of changes. Both women and men experience a midlife pause: menopause (women) and andropause (men). Both pauses involve nothing but change; physical, mental, and more.
Testosterone
Testosterone is the hormone responsible for multiple functions in the human body. Both men and women have testosterone, but it’s present at higher levels in men. It’s responsible for:
- Creating and maintaining muscle mass
- Creating and maintaining bone density
- Correct functioning of red blood cells
- Anatomy and functionality of male sex organs
- Libido
As men age, testosterone, the male sex hormone, will decline. Some men feel it beginning as early as their late 20s and it will happen to nearly every man. There are less common causes of a decline in testosterone, including:
- Side effects of certain medications
- An injury to the testicles
- A pituitary gland imbalance or illness
- Using too much alcohol
While these causes are possible, it’s almost inevitable that the mere passage of time will cause a decrease of testosterone. Like menopause, andropause and the accompanying low testosterone occur naturally.
Symptoms of Low Testosterone
The symptoms of low testosterone may appear slowly enough that you won’t notice them immediately, but some common symptoms of it are:
- Decreased motivation
- Tiredness
- Erectile dysfunction
- Diminished physical endurance
- Increased body weight
- Muscle mass decline
- Moodiness
- Joint discomfort
- Cognitive decline
Any or all of these symptoms can decrease one’s quality of life, and low testosterone may even contribute to a shorter lifespan.
Testosterone Treatment
Fortunately, there is treatment available for low testosterone. It can be diagnosed through blood tests ordered by your medical care provider. If you’re in the Ellensburg, WA area, The Wellness Connection Aesthetics & Health can order those tests after a consultation with you. After we receive the results, we can work together to formulate a treatment plan based on your specific needs and health goals.
There are several ways testosterone can be administered. We can prescribe:
- A gel spray taken through the nose
- Gel which you apply to your skin
- Intramuscular injections (shots)
- Pills or tablets
- Patches
Your treatment option will be based on your needs and lifestyle so we can ensure that it fits seamlessly into your life.
The Wellness Connection Aesthetics & Health
The Wellness Connection Aesthetics & Health in Ellensburg, WA is focused on wellness and overall health instead of only treating the symptoms your body exhibits. We take the time to get to know you, your concerns, history, and goals so we can work together to create your best health. Contact us today for an appointment to look and feel your best.
Disclaimer: The information contained here was not written by a medical doctor and is intended for informational purposes only. This is not a substitute for medical advice.
