Testosterone is a hormone both sexes produce, but it’s especially important for men because it contributes to sexual health, hair growth, and muscle development. After age 30, a man’s natural testosterone production declines by about 1% a year.
This decline doesn’t affect everyone in the same way, but 10%-40% of men have testosterone deficiency, or low testosterone (low T). The good news is that low T can be treated with healthy lifestyle changes and, in some cases, testosterone replacement therapy (TRT).
At Vitality Center of Charlotte in Charlotte, North Carolina, Michael Trombley, MD, and Richard Boulware, PA-C, specialize in treating low testosterone. This article explains why low T occurs, highlights common symptoms, and discusses what to expect with treatment.
The most common reason testosterone levels drop is aging. As you get older, your body doesn’t produce as much testosterone as it used to, which can affect your energy levels, sex drive, and muscle mass.
Other factors can also cause testosterone to decline, including:
A variety of outside factors can influence testosterone levels, including weight, diet, sleep, and stress. Poor sleep, an unhealthy diet, excess weight, and chronic stress can all contribute to low testosterone.
Certain over-the-counter (OTC) and prescription medications can affect testosterone levels. Similarly, certain medical conditions, such as pituitary gland or testicular disorders, can affect testosterone levels.
Low testosterone affects everyone differently, but there are telltale signs to watch for, including:
Remember that these issues can occur for various reasons beyond low testosterone. A comprehensive screening can identify the underlying cause of your symptoms and help determine the best course of treatment.
To diagnose low testosterone, we review your health history and ask about your symptoms, including when they started and whether you’ve been screened for low testosterone before.
Then, we complete a physical exam and order lab tests, including blood work. We typically test testosterone levels in the morning, when they’re highest, but we provide specific instructions.
If we determine that your testosterone levels are consistently low and that you have a testosterone deficiency, we develop a personalized treatment plan. Depending on your testosterone levels and the severity of your symptoms, we may recommend:
The goal of treatment is to restore your testosterone levels to the appropriate range and prevent uncomfortable side effects.
If you’re a middle-aged man experiencing symptoms such as fatigue, brain fog, or low sex drive, you may have low testosterone. To start feeling better, contact Vitality Center of Charlotte today. Call our office or request your appointment online.
