LOW TESTOSTERONE IN MEN
What is “Low T”?
“Low T”, or low testosterone, is a condition when the body is not able to produce an optimal level of testosterone.
Is “Low T” common?
Yes, it is very common. Thirteen million men in the United States have low testosterone . It commonly affects men 45 years and older, but can occur at other ages. Men with type 2 diabetes, erectile dysfunction, and chronic pain more commonly have low testosterone. Although “Low T” is common, only 10% of men that have it are treated. This is because men aren’t being checked properly and they or their doctors often blame symptoms on “getting older”
What are the effects of “Low T?”
Low testosterone can cause low energy, loss of sex drive, soft erections, difficulty concentrating, depressed mood, loss of strength, increased abdominal fat, and loss of bone density.
How can I find out if my symptoms are from “Low T?”
We will ask you questions about your energy, mood, sexual desire, and erectile function. If your symptoms are suggestive of low testosterone, a simple blood test can determine your level.
If I have “Low T,” what are my options?
There are a number of ways to increase testosterone. Some herbal medicines have been shown to increase testosterone but may take up to 4 months for noticeable effect. Your doctor may recommend a drug called HCG that stimulates the body to make its own testosterone. For faster results, your doctor may recommend testosterone therapy. It comes in a variety of convenient forms: creams you rub into your skin, patches you apply, drops you take under the tongue, or injections of testosterone that are administered weekly. Your Northwest Center doctor will help you decide which form is best for you.
What can I expect from treatment?
If you have low testosterone, and you treat it, you can expect increased sex drive, improved sexual performance, and an improvement in muscle mass. You can also expect decreased body fat, stronger bones, improved mood, and motivation. Most men with low testosterone, who treat it also observe improved energy.
Take the below self test to find out if you could have "Low T."
“Low T” Self-Test for Men:
Answer the following questions yes or no:
Do you have a reduced desire for sex?
Are your erections less strong?
Do you have decreased energy?
Are you depressed, sad, or grumpy?
Do you have a loss of strength or endurance?
Have you had a reduction of or do you have low bone density?
Have you lost height?
Do you have a lessened ability to play sports?
Have you had a loss of muscle mass?
Do you have increased abdominal fat?
If you answered “yes” to three or more of the above questions, you could have “low T,” and may benefit from treatment. Schedule an appointment with us to find out. To do so, or for more information, call us at (360) 651-9355.
