Low Testosterone Treatment

Testosterone is a hormone produced by the testicles in the male reproductive system. This hormone affects a person’s appearance, influences sexual development, and regulates sperm production and sex drive. Testosterone also helps build bone and muscle mass. Low testosterone, also known as male hypogonadism, is a condition in which the testes do not produce enough testosterone to maintain healthy levels. It is natural for testosterone production to decrease as a man ages.

Causes

Low testosterone can result from various factors. One primary cause is aging, as testosterone levels tend to naturally decline with age, particularly after the age of 30. Medical conditions such as obesity, diabetes, and metabolic syndrome can also contribute to low testosterone production. Additionally, certain medications, such as opioids and corticosteroids, can negatively impact testosterone levels. Lifestyle factors like excessive stress, inadequate sleep, and a sedentary lifestyle can further exacerbate low testosterone, making it crucial to address these potential causes for overall health and well-being.

Symptoms

The symptoms of low testosterone can vary depending on the cause and severity of the condition, but common symptoms include:

  • Decreased bone and muscle mass

  • Difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection

  • Fatigue

  • Hair loss

  • Loss of or low sex drive

  • Smaller testicle or penis size

TREATMENTS

A urologist will measure a patient’s low testosterone by doing a blood test. It may take several tests to determine if the patient has low testosterone as the levels change and often drop throughout the day. Due to this, medical professionals prefer to measure testosterone levels in the morning.

After the patient is diagnosed with low testosterone, the urologist may recommend testosterone replacement therapy (TRT). TRT comes in many forms, and the patient can work with their urologist to determine which option works best for them. It comes in several forms, such as injections, gels, creams, and minimally invasive under-the-skin pellets.