Could you have low testosterone?: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia

Effects of Low Testosterone

Polycythemia can thicken the blood and raise a person’s risk for stroke or blood clots. If a man has one or both testicles surgically removed, his body will produce less testosterone. Chemotherapy and radiation can affect testosterone production, too. Children with intersex conditions (development of both male and female reproductive organs) may also have trouble with testosterone production. These options include oral treatments, nasal sprays applied to the nostrils, intramuscular injections administered into the arm or leg, and gels applied to the skin for absorption into the bloodstream. You should consult with your healthcare professional to identify the most suitable option for you.

The symptoms that result from low testosterone can testosterone supplements cause weight gain cause additional health problems. For example, weight gain is linked to a number of health hazards, including a higher risk of high blood pressure and heart disease. Fatigue could result in a lack of energy for exercise, and a sedentary lifestyle can also lead to other health risks. The mental and emotional difficulties linked to low testosterone can also be detrimental to your overall health. If you suspect that you may be experiencing any symptoms of low testosterone, then you should visit a nearby Low T clinic to receive a diagnosis and possible treatment.

We also consider other possible causes, such as thyroid issues, medication side effects, or lifestyle factors. When considering treatments for TD, we first consider the cause. If we can pinpoint the reason a man’s testosterone levels are low, treating the underlying condition might be the first step toward improvement. For example, if a man has low testosterone due to obesity, we might suggest weight loss, a healthy diet, and exercise. For example, trouble with erections can be a sign of diabetes or heart disease. Low sex drive could be linked to depression or be a side effect of medication. For these reasons, it’s a good idea to call your doctor if you have any of these symptoms so you can have a thorough medical exam.

Men who are hypertensive, obese, or who have elevated cholesterol levels may also suffer from low testosterone levels. At Revibe Men’s Health, the medical providers treat men’s intimacy health and aging issues day in and day out. They take into account each patient’s individual needs and customize prescriptions in a confidential communicative atmosphere.

However, some researchers and healthcare providers disagree with this and feel that levels below 250 ng/dL are low. Providers also take symptoms into consideration when diagnosing low testosterone. Your hypothalamus releases gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH), which triggers your pituitary gland to release luteinizing hormone (LH). LH then travels to your gonads (testicles or ovaries) and stimulates the production and release of testosterone.

Testosterone is a controlled drug that can only be prescribed by a medical provider licensed to do so. It is important that any testosterone replacement program be routinely monitored by a medical specialist to assure medical safety and maximum effectiveness. Unlike other doctor’s offices or men’s clinics, there’s no waiting time at Revibe Men’s Health and the process is confidential. EMedicineHealth does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. When testosterone drops, you may notice your strength decreasing, even if you’re sticking to your workout routine.

About 15% of men with fertility problems have low testosterone levels. The most common treatment is testosterone replacement therapy (TRT). For example, a bone density test can show diminished bone mass, one result of low testosterone. To diagnose low testosterone, a doctor will often perform a physical evaluation and review the person’s symptoms. The doctor may also request testing to look for additional signs.

Most cases of low testosterone are treatable, and being aware of the symptoms can help a person receive an early diagnosis and treatment. A primary care physician may refer an individual to a urologist, who specializes in diseases of the male reproductive system, or to an endocrinologist who specializes in hormone-related diseases. When the cells are full of glucose, the body stores the excess in fat cells, which may lead to conditions such as type 2 diabetes and obesity.

Tinkering with your testosterone levels without direction from a qualified specialist can cause other health issues, such as testicular atrophy, infertility, and an increased risk of prostate cancer. The Canadian Men’s Health Foundation is developing a communications plan for the guideline among its public campaigns to increase awareness of testosterone deficiency issues related to men’s health. Testosterone helps the body produce healthy red blood cells (RBCs).

Hemocrit refers to the percentage of red blood cells found in the blood. High levels of hemocrit could signal polycythemia – an increase in red blood cells that can lead to blood clots. Polycythemia can be a side effect of TD treatment, so it is helpful to get baseline values during diagnosis. Produced by the pituitary gland, luteinizing hormone spurs testosterone production by the testes. If LH levels are abnormal, there could be a problem with pituitary gland function or a hormone disorder. These tests administered and interpreted by a urologist, can help reveal whether any underlying conditions, health issues or lifestyle choices are affecting testosterone production and whether treatment is needed.