What is low testosterone?
Low testosterone means your body isn’t making enough of the male sex hormone to maintain normal blood levels. Testosterone is made in your testes and is responsible for many of the characteristics unique to men, including:
- Muscle mass and strength
- Deep voice
- Sex drive
- Sexual features
The hormone also helps maintain bone health and strength.
What causes low testosterone?
As you get older, your production of testosterone decreases. This process usually begins around age 30 and production continues to decrease by about 1% every year thereafter.
Though aging is the most common cause of low testosterone, you may also develop a drop in hormone levels from:
- Injury to your reproductive organs
- Use of various medications (opiates, steroids)
- Pituitary disease
- Alcohol abuse
- Obesity
- Diabetes
- Chemotherapy treatment for cancer
Your testosterone levels may also decrease from an acute or chronic illness.
What are the symptoms of low testosterone?
Low testosterone symptoms may vary depending on your age and the underlying cause of your hormonal changes.
Common symptoms of low testosterone include:
- Fatigue
- Loss of muscle mass and strength
- Weight gain
- Low libido
- Erectile dysfunction
- Depression
- Mood changes
- Difficulty concentrating
In addition to the physical symptoms, your low testosterone may also increase your risk of infertility, hair loss, and osteoporosis.
What can I expect during an evaluation for low testosterone?
When you come in for a low testosterone evaluation at Abington Endocrinology, you can expect a thorough and comprehensive assessment.
Dr. Weiss first asks detailed questions about your symptoms, medical history, family history, and the types of medications and supplements you take. He also asks about your diet, exercise habits, and daily routine.
To confirm or rule out low testosterone, Dr. Weiss orders blood tests to measure your testosterone levels.
How is low testosterone treated?
Dr. Weiss develops a comprehensive plan to treat your low testosterone. To restore hormone levels, he prescribes testosterone therapy, which may be provided as a pill, patch, shot, or pellet.
As an endocrinology specialist, Dr. Weiss may also address any underlying health issues contributing to your low testosterone, such as poorly controlled diabetes, a pituitary condition, or obesity.
Low testosterone is a common problem that can affect your health and quality of life. For comprehensive care from a patient-focused physician, call Abington Endocrinology or click the online booking tool to schedule an appointment.
