How To Treat Low Testosterone?
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Testosterone is the male sex hormone made in the testicles. These hormone levels are critical factors in normal sexual development and function for males, for example, testosterone is needed to make sperm. As men get older, their levels naturally decrease, but some men have low testosterone levels. That is known as Testosterone Deficiency Syndrome (TD) or Low Testosterone (Low- T). At Happy Urology, we help identify Low-T and present options to treat low testosterone.
What Is a Normal Testosterone Level for a Man?
The American Urology Association (AUA) identifies low blood testosterone as less than 300 nanograms per deciliter. There are symptoms to look for when trying to figure out if Low -T is the issue.
Signs of low testosterone:
- Decreased body hair
- Decreased muscle mass
- Low sex drive
- Erectile dysfunction
- Growth of breast tissue
- Fatigue
- Irritability
- Depression
- Lower energy level, endurance, and physical strength
- Difficulty finding words to say
While Low-T isn’t the only cause for these symptoms, it is a likely possibility in men. It is hard to know how many men among us have lower than normal testosterone levels. Data from AUA suggest that around 2 men in every 100 have TD.
How to Increase Testosterone Levels?
To restore normal testosterone levels, some men may need testosterone therapy (TT). That is a conversation to have with your doctor or urologist if you show signs of TD and a male hormone test (blood work) shows you have Low-T. The AUA only recommends that TT get prescribed to men who meet both the clinical and laboratory definition of testosterone deficiency. There are typically five different methods to take testosterone.
- Transdermal (through the skin): Topical gels, creams, liquids, and patches.
- Injection: Both short-acting and long-acting forms. Short-acting is given under the skin or in the muscle. Long-acting is injected into the muscle. Weekly, every two weeks, or monthly.
- Oral/Buccal (by mouth): Buccal does come in a patch that gets placed over your incisor (canine). Although it looks like a tablet, it should not be chewed or swallowed. It is released over 12 hours and has fewer harmful effects on the liver than if the drug was swallowed.
- Intranasal: This comes in gel form and is pumped into each nostril as directed. Typical three times daily.
- Pellets: Your doctor will place the testosterone pellet under the skin of the upper hip or buttocks. This medication slowly dissolves and is released over a 3 to 6-month period.
Note: Make sure you go over any side effects of TT before making any decisions.
Who Treats Low Testosterone in Men?
If you are seeking treatment for Low-T, make an appointment with our South Florida Urologist Office today. Dr. Edward Gheiler specializes in many urological services and will be happy to sit and discuss your options with you.
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