Androgen Deficiency in Men in Grand Rapids, Michigan

Androgen deficiency is a medical condition in which a man’s body does not produce enough testosterone or other androgens for normal health and function. This can happen because:

  • The hormonal signals from the brain to the testicles are not working properly, or
  • The testicles themselves cannot make enough testosterone.

Androgens are essential for normal male development, sexual health, bone and muscle strength, mood, and overall wellbeing. When levels are too low, men in Grand Rapids may experience a wide range of physical and emotional symptoms.

Important: Having a low testosterone level on a single blood test does not always mean you have true androgen deficiency. Illness, stress, obesity, and certain medications can temporarily lower testosterone.

In population studies, androgen deficiency is estimated to affect between 1 in 20 and 1 in 200 men.

Hormones as Chemical Messengers

Hormones act as chemical messengers that travel through the bloodstream and help control:

  • Growth and development
  • Metabolism (how your body uses energy)
  • Reproduction and sexual function
  • Mood and overall wellbeing

Androgens are the group of sex hormones that drive the development of “male” characteristics (virilization), such as facial hair, deeper voice, and muscle mass.

The Role of Testosterone

The major sex hormone in men is testosterone. It is:

  • Produced mainly in the testes (testicles)
  • Controlled by the pituitary gland and hypothalamus in the brain

Testosterone is responsible for:

  • Puberty and development of secondary sexual characteristics
  • Facial and body hair growth
  • Deepening of the voice
  • Growth of the penis and testicles
  • Increased muscle mass and bone strength
  • Sex drive (libido) and normal erections
  • Sperm production and fertility

In Grand Rapids, men may notice changes in these areas and assume it is “just aging,” but in some cases, it may be androgen deficiency and worth discussing with a local healthcare provider at Spectrum Health, Trinity Health Grand Rapids, Metro Health, or Mercy Health.

How Androgens Affect Development and Metabolism

When the body does not make enough androgens—especially testosterone—for full health, this is called androgen deficiency or male hypogonadism.

The impact depends on:

  • How severe the deficiency is
  • The underlying cause
  • The age at which the deficiency began (before puberty, during puberty, or in adulthood)

In adult men in West Michigan, androgen deficiency can affect:

  • Energy levels and fatigue
  • Body composition (more fat, less muscle)
  • Bone density (risk of osteoporosis, especially during long Michigan winters with less sunlight and outdoor activity)
  • Mood and mental health
  • Sexual function and fertility

Functions of Testosterone in the Male Body

Some key functions of testosterone include:

  • Sperm production and fertility
  • Sex drive (libido) and sexual satisfaction
  • Erection quality and frequency
  • Muscle mass and strength
  • Bone density and prevention of osteoporosis
  • Body hair growth, including facial and body hair
  • Fat distribution, especially around the abdomen
  • Mood, motivation, and concentration
  • Growth and development during puberty, including voice deepening and genital development

When testosterone is too low, a wide range of symptoms can develop. Many of these are non-specific and can mimic other conditions such as depression, thyroid problems, sleep apnea (common in Michigan’s colder months with more indoor time), or side effects of medications.

Symptoms of Androgen Deficiency in Men

Symptoms can vary from mild to severe. Common symptoms include:

  • Sexual symptoms

    • Reduced sexual desire (low libido)
    • Weaker erections or difficulty maintaining erections
    • Reduced frequency of morning erections
    • Reduced amount of ejaculate
    • Fewer or less intense orgasms
    • Infertility or difficulty conceiving

  • Physical changes

    • Loss of body hair or reduced facial hair growth
    • Increased body fat, especially around the abdomen
    • Reduced muscle mass and strength
    • Weight gain
    • Hot flushes and night sweats
    • Breast development or tenderness (gynaecomastia)
    • Reduced bone mass and increased risk of fractures (osteoporosis)

  • Mental and emotional symptoms

    • Lethargy and persistent fatigue
    • Low mood or depression
    • Irritability or mood swings
    • Trouble sleeping or poor sleep quality
    • Reduced motivation and concentration

Because Grand Rapids experiences long, dark winters, symptoms like low energy, low mood, and reduced activity may be mistakenly attributed only to seasonal affective disorder (SAD) or “winter blues.” In some men, however, androgen deficiency may also be contributing.

Causes of Androgen Deficiency

Androgen deficiency is generally divided into:

  • Primary hypogonadism – a problem with the testicles themselves
  • Secondary hypogonadism – a problem with the brain (pituitary or hypothalamus) that controls the testicles

Primary Hypogonadism (Testicular Causes)

Primary hypogonadism means the testicles cannot make enough testosterone even when they receive the correct signals from the brain. Causes include:

  • Genetic abnormalities, such as:
    • Klinefelter syndrome (the most common genetic cause)
  • Undescended testes (especially if not corrected in childhood)
  • Testicular injury or trauma (for example, sports accidents or work injuries common in physically demanding jobs around Grand Rapids and West Michigan)
  • Mumps infection affecting the testicles
  • Haemochromatosis (a condition causing iron overload that can damage the testes)
  • Damage from chemotherapy or radiation therapy

Secondary Hypogonadism (Brain or Hormonal Signal Causes)

Secondary hypogonadism occurs when the pituitary gland or hypothalamus does not produce enough hormones to stimulate the testicles. Causes include:

  • Genetic syndromes, such as:
    • Kallmann syndrome
  • Pituitary tumors or other brain tumors
  • Injury, surgery, or radiation involving the pituitary region
  • Chronic illnesses, such as:
    • Uncontrolled diabetes (common in Michigan)
    • Severe obesity
    • Chronic liver or kidney disease
  • Infections affecting the brain or pituitary
  • Certain medications, including long-term use of:
    • Opioid pain medications
    • High-dose steroids
    • Some psychiatric medications

Short-term illnesses, such as infections or severe stress, can temporarily lower testosterone without causing true, long-term androgen deficiency.

Diagnosing Androgen Deficiency in Grand Rapids, MI

If you are experiencing symptoms of low testosterone, it is important to see a healthcare provider rather than self-diagnosing. In Grand Rapids, evaluation can be done by:

  • Primary care physicians
  • Endocrinologists
  • Urologists

at major health systems such as Spectrum Health, Trinity Health Grand Rapids, Metro Health, or Mercy Health, or through community clinics and the Kent County Health Department.

Medical History

Your provider will take a detailed history, including:

  • Sexual function and libido
  • Fertility and attempts to conceive
  • Symptoms such as fatigue, mood changes, hot flushes, and muscle weakness
  • Other medical conditions (e.g., diabetes, obesity, sleep apnea)
  • Medication use (prescribed, over-the-counter, and non-prescribed or supplements)
  • Past testicular injuries, infections, or surgeries
  • Family history of hormone or genetic conditions
  • Occupational factors and lifestyle (for example, shift work, stress, or physically demanding jobs common in the Grand Rapids area)

Physical Examination

A thorough physical exam may include:

  • Measuring testicle size and checking for abnormalities
  • Looking for breast enlargement (gynaecomastia)
  • Assessing body hair distribution and muscle mass
  • Checking blood pressure, weight, and waist circumference
  • Looking for signs of other hormone or systemic conditions

Blood Tests

Blood tests are critical to confirm androgen deficiency:

  • Total testosterone level

    • Ideally measured with a fasting blood test in the morning (usually between 7–10 a.m.) when testosterone is highest
    • Testosterone should be measured on two separate mornings to confirm low levels

  • Pituitary hormones

    • LH (luteinizing hormone) and FSH (follicle-stimulating hormone) help determine whether the problem is primary (testicular) or secondary (pituitary/hypothalamic)

  • Additional blood tests may include:

    • Prolactin (another pituitary hormone)
    • Iron levels (to check for haemochromatosis)
    • Thyroid function tests
    • Blood sugar and A1c (for diabetes)
    • Liver and kidney function tests

Other Tests

Depending on your situation, your provider may recommend:

  • Semen analysis – to evaluate fertility and sperm production
  • Genetic tests – to diagnose conditions such as Klinefelter syndrome
  • MRI scan of the brain and pituitary – if a pituitary or hypothalamic problem is suspected

These tests are typically available through hospital systems such as Spectrum Health or Trinity Health Grand Rapids, with referrals from your primary care provider or specialist.

Treatment of Androgen Deficiency

Treatment depends on whether the cause is primary or secondary hypogonadism and whether fertility is a current goal.

Treatment of Primary Hypogonadism

For primary hypogonadism, the main treatment is testosterone replacement therapy (TRT). This aims to restore testosterone levels to the normal range and relieve symptoms.

Forms of testosterone replacement include:

  • Injections (short-acting or long-acting)
  • Capsules or tablets
  • Skin patches
  • Topical gels or creams applied to the skin

In most men, TRT is very effective at improving:

  • Sex drive and sexual function
  • Energy and mood
  • Muscle mass and strength
  • Bone density
  • Overall quality of life

Men in Grand Rapids can access TRT through endocrinology or urology clinics at local health systems, as well as some primary care practices familiar with managing male hypogonadism.

Treatment of Secondary Hypogonadism

For secondary hypogonadism, treatment focuses on:

  1. Addressing the underlying cause, such as:

    • Treating a pituitary tumor
    • Managing chronic illnesses (e.g., optimizing diabetes control)
    • Adjusting medications that may lower testosterone

  2. Testosterone replacement therapy

    • Often used if symptoms are significant and low testosterone is confirmed
    • In some cases, other hormones (such as hCG or gonadotropins) may be used if fertility is a priority

Your healthcare provider will discuss the best approach based on your age, desire for future children, overall health, and specific diagnosis.

Side Effects and Safety of Testosterone Replacement

When testosterone levels are restored to the normal range and therapy is monitored by a qualified clinician, side effects are usually mild and manageable.

Possible side effects can include:

  • Mild weight gain (often due to increased muscle mass and fluid retention)
  • Mild acne or oily skin
  • Mood changes (usually improvement, but some men may experience irritability)
  • Worsening of urine flow problems in older men with enlarged prostate
  • Changes in cholesterol or red blood cell counts

Because of these potential effects, regular follow-up is essential. Your provider may:

  • Check blood counts, PSA (prostate-specific antigen), and cholesterol
  • Monitor blood pressure and weight
  • Adjust the dose or form of testosterone as needed

Avoiding Unregulated Testosterone Products

There is a large commercial market in the U.S. and Michigan for:

  • “Low T” clinics
  • Over-the-counter “testosterone boosters”
  • Herbal or online products claiming to increase testosterone

These products may:

  • Contain unknown or unregulated ingredients
  • Have unpredictable side effects
  • Interact with other medications
  • Mask serious underlying conditions (like pituitary tumors or testicular disease)

Do not start testosterone or hormone-like products on your own. Always:

  • Consult your doctor or a qualified specialist
  • Get proper blood tests and evaluation
  • Use only prescribed, regulated medications from reputable pharmacies in Grand Rapids or West Michigan

The Kent County Health Department and Grand Rapids Public Health resources can also help connect you to safe, evidence-based care if you do not have a primary care provider.

Living with Androgen Deficiency in Grand Rapids

With appropriate diagnosis and treatment, most men with androgen deficiency can lead full, active lives. In Grand Rapids, additional lifestyle steps can support hormone health:

  • Regular physical activity
    • Strength training helps maintain muscle and bone, especially important during long winters with less outdoor activity.
  • Healthy weight management
    • Reducing abdominal fat can improve testosterone levels and overall health.
  • Balanced diet
    • Emphasize lean proteins, whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats.
  • Adequate sleep
    • Poor sleep and sleep apnea can lower testosterone; consider evaluation if you snore or feel unrefreshed.
  • Limit alcohol and avoid smoking
    • Both can negatively affect hormone levels and heart health.

Local gyms, wellness programs, and community health initiatives in Grand Rapids often offer resources and classes that support healthy lifestyle changes.

Key Points About Androgen Deficiency in Men

  • Androgen deficiency is a medical condition caused by problems with your body’s ability to make enough testosterone.
  • A single low testosterone reading does not always mean true androgen deficiency; illness, stress, and obesity can temporarily lower levels.
  • Testosterone, produced mainly in the testes and controlled by the brain, is the major male sex hormone and is essential for sexual function, muscle and bone health, mood, and energy.
  • The effects of androgen deficiency depend on severity, cause, and the age at onset.
  • Diagnosis requires a thorough medical history, physical exam, and repeat morning blood tests, along with other targeted tests.
  • Treatment often involves testosterone replacement therapy, especially for primary hypogonadism, and addressing underlying causes in secondary hypogonadism.
  • Men in Grand Rapids, Michigan can access evaluation and treatment through major health systems (Spectrum Health, Trinity Health Grand Rapids, Metro Health, Mercy Health) and community resources coordinated with the Kent County Health Department.
  • Never start testosterone or “testosterone-boosting” products without medical supervision.

If you live in the Grand Rapids area and are concerned about symptoms of low testosterone, schedule an appointment with your primary care provider or ask for a referral to an endocrinologist or urologist for a comprehensive evaluation.