23 Sep Can Low Testosterone Levels Increase the Risk of COVID Hospitalization
The COVID-19 virus can affect anyone regardless of their health status. Specific health problems can increase your risk of developing severe disease from the virus. Illnesses that may increase the risk of becoming seriously ill from COVID-19 include cancer, kidney or liver disease, lung diseases such as cystic fibrosis and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, diabetes, and obesity. If a person contracts COVID-19 with these health problems, they run a greater risk of hospitalization, including staying in the ICU, requiring a ventilator to breathe, and even death.
Low Testosterone Levels and COVID-19
Low testosterone levels can lead to an overall decline in health. Many men with low testosterone experience symptoms of sexual dysfunction, depression, mood instability, decreased concentration, memory problems, fatigue, and muscle weakness. Low testosterone levels have also been linked to an increased risk of health conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, obesity, heart attack, and stroke. Because testosterone has been linked to severe health conditions, researchers have studied the relation between testosterone levels in men and the severity of COVID-19 infection.
A recent observational study performed at Washington University in St. Louis, MI, revealed that men with testosterone levels less than 200ng/dl were 2.4 times more likely to experience a more severe COVID-19 that may require hospitalization. Being unvaccinated only further increased the risk of severe disease.
The study found that men receiving hormone replacement therapy were at a lower risk of severe disease when compared to those who were not receiving hormone replacement therapy.
Testosterone Replacement Therapy
We know that certain health conditions can further increase the risk of severe disease from COVID-19. Throughout the COVID-19 Pandemic, men have been more severely impacted than women, further suggesting that testosterone plays a significant role in the infection. This study revealed that low testosterone levels are as much of a risk factor for developing severe covid as obesity and diabetes.
If you have low testosterone levels, you may be able to significantly reduce your risk of severe covid by receiving hormone replacement therapy. Low testosterone levels can be easily managed with replacement therapy and can help you to feel your best. If you are experiencing symptoms of low testosterone and are concerned you may develop severe covid, please speak to your doctor to determine if hormone replacement therapy is right for you.