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Low Testosterone

Low Testosterone: Is it just aging or a medical condition?

Andropause is the decrease in testosterone, the male sex hormone. This is a very subtle onset that occurs overs months or years so the symptoms have a very gradual onset. The age this begins varies and the diagnosis will require blood work to be certain. For most men this begins in their 40’s or 50’s but sometimes earlier. Some of the things andropause causes is low sex drive (libido), fatigue, loss of muscle mass, redistribution of fat including more abdominal fat and enlarged breasts (gynecomastia), loss of minerals in bones, mental changes (lack of focus), irritability, mood changes, decreased fertility due to decreased sperm production, and a general loss of the feeling of well-being.

Most men will have a decrease of testosterone production with age, but there are some medical issues that are associated with low T. Obesity and diabetes are the most commonly associated diseases. Other diseases such as liver diseases, chronic infections such as HIV and endocrine disorders, testicular trauma and/or diseases, such as testicular cancer, are causes as well.

At LiveWell Men’s Clinic, we specialize in helping you achieve and maintain a satisfying sex life. Testosterone therapy is very important in this process. It will assist our other modalities function properly, as well as improve your desire for sex and your libido. With testosterone therapy we not only help you feel better and have better health, but it stimulates your desire!

Frequently Asked Questions

What treatment options do I have?

Treating Low T first requires a positive diagnosis. This will require blood work to be certain of the diagnosis. Regardless of how it is treated, the process will require regular blood monitoring to assure the levels are optimal and the meds are not effecting other hormones. The actual treatment is done in three ways. One is a topical cream or gel that is applied to the skin. Another way is to inject the testosterone into the muscle or subcutaneous tissue. The third option is to insert testosterone pellets under the skin. Everyone is different and treatment is individualized, but remember everyone needs regular monitoring.

What are the common symptoms of low-T?

Low testosterone can cause the following symptoms:

  • Fatigue and lack of energy
  • Increase in body fat, including a condition known as gynecomastia (enlarged breasts)
  • Decrease in bone mass, which can lead to the increase of bone fractures
  • Mood changes, such as depression, irritability, lack of focus
  • Low sex drive
  • Difficulty achieving erection
  • Low semen volume, which can decrease a couple’s chance of getting pregnant
  • Hair loss
  • Loss of muscle mass

What are the common causes of low-T?

Low testosterone scores could be the result of:

  • Type 2 diabetes
  • Obesity
  • Hormone disorders
  • Infection
  • HIV/AIDS
  • Chronic liver or kidney disease
  • Injury to the testicles
  • Testicular cancer or treatment for testicular cancer

Low Testosterone Treatment Can Start Today

Call 423.414.9400 fto schedule an appointment.

low testosterone