What are the symptoms of low testosterone?
Testosterone is a hormone produced by the testicles. This hormone has a major impact on your health and well-being. Low testosterone can cause:
- Low sex drive
- Erectile dysfunction
- Fertility problems
- Hair loss
- Fatigue
- Weight gain
- Loss of bone or muscle mass
- Mood changes
- Memory problems
Men with low testosterone may not feel their best, and might not be sure why. Urology Associates of Southeastern North Carolina can help you find out what's causing your symptoms.
What causes low testosterone?
Testosterone levels gradually decrease as you age. Your body starts producing less testosterone around age 30, and this decline continues throughout your life.
But age isn't the only cause of low testosterone. Illness or injury may also be to blame. Some men experience low testosterone due to:
- Head injury
- Testicular damage
- Testicular infection
- Chemotherapy
- Metabolic disorders
- Pituitary gland tumors
- Alcohol abuse
- HIV/AIDS
- Kidney failure
- Obesity
- Diabetes
At Urology Associates of Southeastern North Carolina, your provider gets to the root of the problem. They work with you to find out what's causing your low testosterone, then they help you create a treatment plan that balances your hormones.
Can low testosterone affect my long-term health?
Testosterone doesn't just affect your libido. It also keeps your body in good working order. Low testosterone can cause:
- Anemia
- Bone loss
- Infertility
- Loss of muscle strength
These symptoms put you at risk for illness or injury and interfere with your quality of life. Low testosterone can also trigger mental health issues like depression. Without treatment, these symptoms can have life-altering consequences.
How is low testosterone treated?
Low testosterone can often be treated with testosterone replacement therapy. Your Urology Associates of Southeastern North Carolina provider may suggest several medications to balance your hormones. Injections, patches, or gels can deliver the medication you need.
Your provider might also suggest hormone pellets. These pellets are tiny, about the size of a grain of rice. When placed under the skin, they gradually release testosterone into your body. Many men find hormone pellets to be a convenient and comfortable treatment option.
Throughout the treatment process, your provider works with you to choose the right method of hormone replacement. You also meet with your provider for regular checkups. These checkups are an ideal time for other exams and tests, like prostate cancer screenings.
Ready to explore solutions for your low testosterone? Call the office today or schedule an appointment online.
