Low testosterone: signs, testing, and treatment
Testosterone naturally drops a little each year after about age 30. For some men it falls low enough to cause symptoms. This is called low testosterone, or hypogonadism, and it can be tested and treated.
Common signs
- Low sex drive
- Erection problems
- Low energy or feeling tired
- Low mood or trouble concentrating
- Loss of muscle, or gaining body fat
- Less body hair, or thinning bones over time
These signs can have other causes too, like poor sleep, depression, or thyroid problems. That’s why testing matters.
How it’s tested
Low testosterone is diagnosed with blood tests, usually drawn in the morning when levels are highest, and often repeated to confirm. Your provider will look at your symptoms and your numbers together.
Not sure where to start? We list trusted places to get checked in Louisiana, from community health centers to men’s health clinics. See where to get care.
How it relates to ED
Low testosterone mostly affects sex drive. It can contribute to ED, but most ED is caused by blood flow. Some men need treatment for both.
Treatment options
Testosterone therapy comes as gels, injections, patches, or pellets. It can improve energy, mood, and sex drive for men with confirmed low levels. It requires follow-up blood tests and isn’t right for everyone, including men trying to have children, since it can lower sperm production.
Questions to ask
- Are my levels low on more than one test?
- Could something else explain my symptoms?
- What are the benefits and risks for me?
- How often will I need blood work?
- Does it affect fertility?
Weight loss, exercise, and better sleep can raise testosterone naturally for some men.
Sources
Where to get care
Any of these is a good next step. Pick the one that fits you.
- Aspire Health and Wellness†. A men’s health clinic in Metairie specializing in erectile dysfunction and weight loss, with free private visits and a range of treatment options. Visit aspireneworleans.com.
- Your primary care doctor. A good first stop. They can check your heart, blood sugar, and hormone levels.
- A urologist. A doctor who specializes in men’s urologic and sexual health.
- A community health center. Fees are based on income, with or without insurance. Find a community health center.
- Louisiana Medicaid. If you qualify, it covers doctor visits and prescriptions. See if you qualify.
- Veterans. Southeast Louisiana VA Health Care offers men’s health care for enrolled veterans.
† Affiliated with Aspire Community Care. We’re a nonprofit and don’t provide medical care; choose any provider that fits you.
Not sure where to start? Tell us what’s going on and we’ll help you find a next step. What you share stays private.
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