Testosterone is a sex hormone most often associated with males, but females also have small quantities of it. Testosterone affects sex drive and serves an important role in sperm production. However, testosterone does not stop there.
It also affects muscle mass, bone mass, red blood cell production, and even the way men store fat. Testosterone is an essential hormone for men and when it gets too low, unwanted symptoms can show up.
Common Signs of Low Testosterone
Every man will experience symptoms of low testosterone differently. Here are the most common areas where men with low testosterone are affected.
Sex Drive
Men with low testosterone most often experience a decreased sex drive. This depends on the man’s sex drive before experiencing low testosterone. Generally speaking, if a man experiences a significant change in his sex drive that is noticeable to him or his partner, there may be a testosterone level problem.
Weight
Another common symptom of low testosterone is weight gain. If you experience unexplained weight gain with a consistent diet and lifestyle, low testosterone may be the reason why you are gaining the extra pounds.
Energy
Low energy is also a common sign of low testosterone in men. If you feel more tired or lethargic than usual and find yourself wanting to rest more often than normal, low testosterone may be the cause.
Mood
The fact that hormones affect mood is no surprise. Irritable moodiness is also a sign of low testosterone. If you find yourself irritated, angry, or off kilter more often than before or for no explainable reason, low testosterone could be the reason.
Body Hair
If you notice that your hair is falling out and growing back slower, it could be due to low testosterone.
Muscle Mass
Muscle mass may decrease from low testosterone. If you notice less muscle mass than before and haven’t made any lifestyle changes that would explain why (for example, you haven’t stopped your regular gym routine), low testosterone could be to blame.
Testing
Testing for testosterone levels is a fairly easy process because it can be checked through a simple blood test. The normal range for testosterone in men is 250 to 1100 ng/dL in adult males. If your testosterone levels are lower than the normal range, you have low testosterone.
Treatment
Treatment for low testosterone depends on symptoms, severity of the testosterone deficiency, and viable treatments available. If the testosterone levels are not significantly low and the symptoms are manageable, doctors may recommend no treatment. In some cases, testosterone replacement therapy can be used. This method involves administering artificial testosterone through a skin patch, gel, injection, or oral medication.
Hormone Expertise in Phoenix
If you think you may be experiencing low testosterone, it’s essential to see a medical professional who can test and diagnose you. The earlier you seek medical attention, the sooner you can get your health back on track and return to enjoying life.
Dr. Desiderio Avila Jr. of Ironwood Urology is an expert urologist with a wealth of experience treating issues like low testosterone. Call (480) 961-2323 to make an appointment today.
You can also request an appointment online.
