Male Low Testosterone

Male Low Testosterone

Why do male testosterone levels drop?

As part of the normal aging process, male testosterone levels begin to decrease slowly and steadily after the age of 30. It’s normal for testosterone to be at its peak during early adulthood, and then steadily decline by about 1% each year. Other circumstances that may cause male low testosterone levels include medical conditions like diabetes, obesity, infections, or hormonal health issues.

Additionally, you may experience low testosterone levels if you:

• Have a thyroid condition
• Drink alcohol regularly
• Have pituitary gland problems
• Take certain medications

A blood test can give Dr. Hall an accurate picture of your hormone levels so she can create a personalized treatment plan.

What are the symptoms of low testosterone in men?

Symptoms of low testosterone levels include:

• Erectile dysfunction
• Fragile bones
• Loss of strength and muscle mass
• Decreased body hair
• Fatigue
• Increased body fat
• Swelling or tenderness in breast tissue
• Sleep disturbances
• Emotional changes
• Irritability
• Difficulty concentrating or remembering
• Lack of motivation
• Decreased self-confidence

Some men may experience depression as a result of low testosterone levels. All of these changes can affect the quality of your life, both physically and emotionally. In most cases, the symptoms of low testosterone levels are treatable, so you can get back to living your life to the fullest.

What are the treatment options for low testosterone?

First, Dr. Hall determines if there are any underlying medical causes for your low testosterone levels, or if it’s part of the normal aging process. If a medical condition is responsible, she can treat that issue.

She offers bioidentical male hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) via pellets that are implanted under your skin, or in some cases a troche (gummy) that dissolves under your lip.  Oral replacement is unsafe, and topical creams, gels and patches have a lot of side effects.  Injections are expensive, don’t achieve good levels, and are painful. The goal of BHRT is to balance your hormones by increasing your testosterone levels  and reverse the resultant unpleasant symptoms.

Dr. Hall works with you to make lifestyle and dietary changes that may help alleviate symptoms, too. Losing weight, getting enough sleep, and staying active and positive can do wonders for your emotional and physical well-being when you have a low testosterone level.

Contact the office with any questions, or if you know you want to get started, use the contact form to request an appointment.