Low Testosterone levels is an issue that can affect men of all ages. Testosterone is a hormone that plays an important role in men’s health. When levels drop below the normal range, it can lead to a range of symptoms and health concerns.
At Primary Healthcare, we can do a comprehensive physical exam that will help us to identify problems including low testosterone. Let’s learn about low testosterone or “Low T” as it is sometimes called including its causes, symptoms, and when it’s time to seek medical advice.
What is Low Testosterone?
Testosterone is a hormone primarily produced in the testicles and the adrenal glands.
It is an important part of maintaining:
- Sexual function: Including libido or sex drive, erectile function and sperm production.
- Muscle mass and strength: Testosterone helps maintain your lean body mass and bone density.
- Energy levels: Testosterone levels contribute to your overall energy level.
- Mood and cognition: If your testosterone is low, it can affect your cognitive function, concentration and even your mood.
Other articles you might enjoy: 7 Ways to Prevent Knee Injuries
Causes of Low-T:
There are a few different reasons that you might be suffering from low testosterone levels including:
- Aging: Your T levels naturally decline with age, but a significant drop is concerning.
- Medical conditions: Health conditions including obesity, diabetes and chronic illnesses can impact your testosterone levels.
- Medications: Medications including opioids or corticosteroids, can lower your testosterone levels.
- Testicular problems: Because testosterone is primarily produced in the testicles, if you’ve had an injury to this area it could impact testosterone production. Other diseases like testicular cancer can likewise decrease your testosterone levels.
- Hormonal imbalances: An overall hormone imbalance caused by issues with your pituitary gland or hypothalamus can impact testosterone levels.
Common Symptoms of Low Testosterone:
Some of the symptoms of low testosterone might include:
- Decreased interest in sexual activity
- Difficulty having/maintaining erections
- Fatigue, exhaustion, lack of energy
- Difficulty remembering things/focusing
- Depression and mood changes/swings
- Decreased strength and muscle bulk
- Increased body fat around the abdomen
- Reduced bone density (might be seen in increased fractures)
When to See Your Primary Care Physician:
While there are medical spas that offer “Low T” treatments or shots, it is important to have a comprehensive physical exam to determine the cause of your low testosterone before treating it. It could be an underlying medical condition that needs to be addressed with more than just hormone replacement therapy.
Fortunately, low testosterone is a treatable condition. With early diagnosis and intervention we can improve your symptoms and your quality of life.
Please schedule an appointment with your Primary Care Physician at Primary Healthcare if:
- You are experiencing persistent symptoms that are associated with Low T
- You have a history of conditions that could cause low testosterone.
- You are concerned about aging and your hormonal health
Read more about : 8 Reasons you need a Primary Care Physician
What treatments are available for Low-T?
When you visit Primary Healthcare with concerns about Low T, we will do a comprehensive physical evaluation including blood tests to determine if you are suffering from low testosterone and what might be causing it.
Treatment options for Low Testosterone include hormone replacement therapy (including injections or at-home therapies like creams and medication), lifestyle changes or addressing underlying medical conditions.
At Primary Healthcare, we want to give you the tools you need to live a healthy and active lifestyle. If you or someone you love are experiencing the symptoms of low testosterone, please schedule an appointment online at www.phcmed.com or by calling (801) 758-8735. We would love to help you!