Testosterone is a sex hormone predominantly present in males, which performs essential functions in the body, such as the development of muscles and bones, red blood cell production, hair growth, deepening of the voice, and, most importantly, the production of sperm.

What Happens If You Have Low Testosterone?

Statistics show that around 1 in 4 men that are over 30 have low testosterone levels.

This can lead to a range of symptoms, such as:

• Problems with erection
• Hair loss
• Reduced bone mass and muscle mass
• Reduction in testicle size
• Reduction in the amount of semen
• Difficulty sleeping
• Lowered sex drive
• Hot flashes
• Decreased energy levels
• Increased body fat
• Rapid mood swings

Other non-specific symptoms may include:

• Low energy levels, and lack of endurance and physical strength
• Difficulty in speaking
• Poor memory
• Lack of focus
• Decreased productivity that affects performance levels at work

Causes of Low Testosterone

Testosterone levels peak in adulthood and begin to drop by the time men are in their early 40s. As they embark on their 50s, they may start to see more of the symptoms that are outlined above.

While most of these symptoms are a result of aging, some of them may be caused by other factors, such as side-effects of a few medications, depression, diabetes, thyroid problems, and obstructive sleep apnea. Other low-risk factors for lower testosterone levels include:

• Chemotherapy or radiation treatment
• Infections or injuries
• Chronic illnesses
• Stress
• Alcoholism
• Obesity
• HIV and AIDS

Diagnosing Low Testosterone

Millions of men in the United States are seeking treatment for low testosterone to improve their energy levels, become mentally sharp, and enhancing their sex drive.

If you’re in a similar situation or are experiencing any of the symptoms highlighted above, Dr. Aziz can help you get to the root of the problem. The diagnosis for low testosterone begins with a review of your health history, your family’s medical history, and a physical examination.

The doctor will check for obesity with the help of a BMI or waist circumference, look for the symptoms of metabolic syndrome, assess your hair growth patterns, check for enlarged breasts or gynecomastia, the size of the prostate and testicles, as well as any abnormalities associated with them.

After a thorough physical exam, the doctor will conduct a series of blood tests. The blood tests will help the doctor assess the total testosterone level, the luteinizing hormone (LH) level, blood prolactin level, and blood hemoglobin. Bone density tests may also be conducted.

Treatment for Low Testosterone

After the diagnosis, the doctor will draw up a comprehensive treatment plan to raise the level of testosterone in your body. The treatment plan can vary from one person to another, depending on their family’s medical history or underlying medical conditions.

Dr. Aziz offers five forms of treatment for low testosterone. They include:

• Transdermal: This includes topical creams, gels, patches, or liquids
• Injection: These may be short-acting or long-acting injections that are given to the muscles
• Oral: These are oral doses of medication that you can chew or swallow
• Intranasal: This includes inserting a liquid into each nostril, usually thrice a day
• Pellets: This involves placing testosterone pellets under the skin of your upper hip after making a small cut

If you’re seeking treatment for low testosterone levels, Dr. Aziz can help you out! Get in touch with our clinic staff today to book an evaluation and make sure you stay in optimal shape!