Low testosterone, also known as low-T or male hypogonadism, is a condition in which the testicles (gonads) are unable to produce enough of the testosterone hormone. Testosterone is responsible for various crucial bodily functions, such as promoting bone growth and strength, regulating sex drive (libido), and controlling sperm production.
Low testosterone can occur at any stage of a man’s life: it can develop as early as during fetal development, before adolescence, or throughout the remainder of adulthood (starting at age 30).
In adult men, low testosterone can cause low sex drive, hair loss, depression, fatigue, fertility problems, erectile dysfunction, among other symptoms.
If you’re experiencing these symptoms, you have two options for expert care: a urologist or an endocrinologist. Let’s explore the scope of practice of each of these medical professionals to find out which one you should see for this health problem.
Urologist vs. Endocrinologist
A urologist is a healthcare professional who has advanced training in the diagnosis and treatment of the full spectrum of conditions affecting the urinary and male reproductive systems. While a urologist is trained to treat both men and women, they can specialize in men’s sexual and reproductive health (thus the term “men’s health expert”) and focus on providing treatment for conditions of the male urinary and reproductive systems, among which is low testosterone.
An endocrinologist is a physician who specializes in the diagnoses and treatment of diseases and conditions involving the hormones. Endocrinologists provide care for people who are suffering from conditions and disorders affecting the endocrine system—the network of glands that secrete chemicals (hormones) responsible for regulating many vital bodily functions. These conditions include low testosterone, obesity, diabetes, thyroid dysfunction, pituitary, and infertility.
The decision as to which type of medical practitioner you need to see hinges on which of your organ systems are being affected by the decline in your testosterone levels. For instance, if you’re having problems in your reproductive or urinary system, it’s more appropriate to see a urologist, as their scope of practice encompasses providing treatment for conditions of both the reproductive and urinary systems.
If you want to ensure you’re getting comprehensive care, you can also include an endocrinologist in your care team.
Low Testosterone Treatment in Phoenix, Arizona
For first-rate low testosterone treatment in Phoenix, Arizona, visit us at Ironwood Urology. Our board-certified urologist, Dr. Desiderio Avila, Jr., has helped scores of men struggling with low testosterone and other urological or reproductive tract issues live healthier lives.
Give us a call today at (480) 961-2323(480) 961-2323 or fill out our convenient online request form to schedule a consultation with the one of the best urologists in Phoenix. Dr. Avila takes great pleasure in providing you with the highest quality of care!
