Low Testosterone

Low testosterone – also called “Low T”– is becoming increasingly common in men over the age of 45.

It’s time to have a conversation with your Bellin Health doctor if your sex drive unexpectedly tanks and you experience any of these symptoms:

  • Low semen volume during ejaculation
  • Hair loss on the face and/or body
  • Fatigue and lack of energy
  • Infertility
  • Erectile Dysfunction (ED)
  • Loss of muscle mass, especially in your arms, legs, or chest
  • Increase in body fat
  • Decrease in bone mass
  • Changes in mood

Medical Conditions That Can Cause or Contribute to Low Testosterone

According to the American Urological Association, underlying medical conditions can cause low testosterone. Here’s a breakdown:

Treatment Options and Side Effects

Your Bellin Health doctor will give you a physical and administer a blood test. He or she will also check your PSA levels to rule out prostate cancer.

If it’s determined that Low T is to blame, you can try testosterone replacement therapy. There are several types:

  • Skin gels (the most common)
  • Injections
  • Pellets
  • Patches
  • Oral inserts

What You Should Expect After Treatment

Testosterone therapy is a lifelong treatment. If you stop therapy, your testosterone levels will decrease. After therapy, you should expect to have more energy, an increased libido, improved sleep and you’ll be in a better mood. You should also experience physical changes, such as decreased body fat, more muscle mass, and more bone density.

Risks and Side Effects

  • You should not undergo testosterone therapy if you have breast or prostate cancer
  • According to the American Urological Association, patients with kidney, liver, or heart problems may be at an increased risk of developing edema, or water retention
  • Testosterone replacement may result in worsening of sleep apnea
  • Long-term treatment may impair a man's fertility.

Call a Bellin Health Primary Care Physician

If you’re experiencing “Low-T” symptoms, get the guidance you need from a Bellin primary care physician.

Call Bellin Health On-Call 24/7 at (920) 445-7373 for more information and to make an appointment.

Sources: 
http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/003707.htm
http://www.healthline.com/health-slideshow/low-t#1
http://www.diabetes.org/living-with-diabetes/treatment-and-care/men/low-testosterone.html