As men age, it is not uncommon for them to experience a decline in testosterone levels. Testosterone is a vital hormone that plays a significant role in maintaining men’s overall health and well-being.
Our expert urologists at Urology of Greater Atlanta provide specialized hormone evaluations and hormone therapy to restore your health and vitality. Call or book a consultation online and let our board-certified urologists explain your options!
What is Hormone Therapy?
Hormone therapy is a method of replacing hormones lost to aging or medical conditions. Your hormones regulate nearly every body function, and an imbalance can cause disruptive and distressing symptoms. Hormone therapy restores your hormonal balance, relieves your symptoms, and restores your vitality.
What is Testosterone?
Testosterone is the hormone associated with male sex characteristics ranging from a deep voice and facial hair to the physical changes that emerge during puberty. Testosterone is also a critical part of your sex drive and sperm production. Testosterone also works with other hormones in your body to support healthy bone development, metabolism, and energy levels.
Your testosterone levels naturally decline as you age. Diabetes and other health problems can also interfere with testosterone production. Trauma to your testicles or another hormone imbalance can influence your testosterone levels.
What Are the Symptoms of Low Testosterone?
Low testosterone causes a variety of distressing symptoms in men and women.
Low Testosterone in Men (Male Hypogonadism)
Low testosterone can lead to several distressing symptoms in men, such as:
- Decreased Sex Drive (Low Libido): A noticeable reduction in sexual desire.
- Low Energy Levels: Persistent fatigue and lack of motivation.
- Weight Gain: Unexplained weight gain, particularly around the abdomen.
- Muscle Mass Loss: Decrease in muscle size and strength.
- Hot Flashes and Night Sweats: Similar to symptoms experienced during menopause.
- Increased Irritability: Heightened feelings of irritability and mood swings.
- Bone Density Issues: Increased risk of osteoporosis and fractures.
Low Testosterone in Women (Female Hypogonadism)
While low testosterone is commonly associated with men, women can also experience its effects. Symptoms in women include:
- Reduced Libido: Decreased interest in sexual activity.
- Fatigue: Constant tiredness and low energy.
- Muscle Weakness: Reduction in muscle strength.
- Bone Density Loss: Higher risk of developing osteoporosis.
How is Low Testosterone Diagnosed?
Your doctor will diagnose low testosterone through a series of tests and examinations. The diagnosis process typically starts with a physical examination and a review of the patient’s medical history. Your doctor may ask about symptoms such as fatigue, decreased sex drive, erectile dysfunction, infertility, decreased muscle mass and strength, and decreased bone density.
After the physical examination, the doctor may order blood tests to see if there is a testosterone deficiency. The most common blood test is the total testosterone test, which measures the overall testosterone level in the blood. In addition, your doctor may also order a free testosterone test, which measures the amount of testosterone that is not bound to proteins in the blood and is available for the body to use.
Another test that can be used is the luteinizing hormone (LH) blood test. This test can highlight issues with your pituitary gland.
When to See a Doctor
It is crucial to consult a doctor if you experience any symptoms of low testosterone, such as decreased libido, fatigue, or muscle mass loss. Seeking professional advice can lead to early diagnosis and effective treatment, improving your overall quality of life.
Can Low Testosterone Be Prevented?
While some causes of low testosterone, like aging, cannot be prevented, certain lifestyle changes may help maintain healthy testosterone levels:
- Healthy Diet: Consuming a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals.
- Regular Exercise: Engaging in regular physical activity to boost hormone production.
- Adequate Sleep: Ensuring sufficient sleep to support overall health.
- Stress Management: Reducing stress through relaxation techniques.
- Limit Alcohol Consumption: Heavy drinking can affect testosterone production.
You may be encouraged to adapt some of these strategies before starting testosterone therapy to reduce symptoms.
What Types of Testosterone Therapies Are Available?
The team at Urology of Greater Atlanta offers many different types of testosterone treatments, including the following:
- Topical therapies (gels, creams, patches)
- Oral medications
- Nasal gels
- Testosterone injections
- Testosterone pellets
Your doctor carefully monitors your blood parameters and overall health while providing testosterone replacement therapy. Your testosterone treatment may need to be adjusted to your body’s needs to optimize your health.
Get Help with Your Low Testosterone Today!
If you’re experiencing symptoms of low testosterone, don’t hesitate to seek help from us at Urology of Greater Atlanta. Our team of experienced urologists can help diagnose and treat low testosterone to improve your quality of life. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and take the first step toward feeling like yourself again!
