Many men struggle with low testosterone (low T), and some don’t even realize it.
Here’s what an expert hormone doctor in Bethesda, Maryland has to say about this tricky hormonal imbalance, the surprising symptoms, and the testosterone therapy available to help experience maximum enjoyment in life!
What Is Testosterone Exactly
Testosterone is a hormone found in both humans and animals, found in higher concentration in males and primarily produced by the testicles. Testosterone is responsible for a lot of basic functions, namely sex drive, sperm production, bone and muscle mass, red blood cell production, and even your mood.
Although testosterone production can naturally lower as you age, there are many other reasons for its decrease. These include testicular injury, cancer treatments such as chemotherapy, kidney disease, and alcoholism.
What Is Considered a Normal Testosterone Level?
Testosterone levels vary greatly depending on multiple factors, including age. High and low levels of testosterone aren’t always accurately measured, which is important to keep in mind when seeking testing and treatment.
For example, a testosterone level of at least 300 nanograms per deciliter (ng / dL) is considered a normal level. However, this is not entirely accurate if you’re a younger male in your 20s. For a man that age, those would be considered low numbers.
Ideally, your levels should be higher at that age, but a range of 300 to 1,000 ng / dL is acceptable. Men who are younger may experience symptoms of low T at just 300, whereas a man in his 60s may be functioning just right.
Ultimately, it’s between you and your hormone doctor to diagnose whether you’re struggling with low testosterone and need treatment.
What Symptoms Are Associated With Decreased Testosterone Levels?
Symptoms of low testosterone are one of the many ways your doctor will determine if you would benefit from testosterone therapy. The signs associated with decreased testosterone production include:
- Decreased muscle mass
- Depression
- Difficulty concentrating or being / staying motivated
- Erectile dysfunction
- Fatigue
- Hair loss
- Increased body fat
- Irritability or other mood changes
- Low libido and / or sperm count
What Are My Options for Treatment From a Hormone Doctor in Bethesda, Maryland?
Although low testosterone is a natural occurrence, it can lead to some significant struggle in some cases and even health problems if it persists for too long.
If you’re experiencing the negative effects, it’s time to consider treating low testosterone. Thankfully, there are many options available, such as:
- Creams: A testosterone cream is a once-daily topical that provides consistent release, mimicking your body’s natural output. Testosterone topicals are an excellent alternative for men who wish to avoid needles.
- Injections: Testosterone injections are used twice or thrice weekly in pre-set, carefully measured amounts, ensuring a steady supply of testosterone without inconsistent spikes. Injections carry the benefit of lower testosterone to DHT conversion, putting less stress on your prostate and lowering your risk for hair loss.
- Patches: Testosterone patches are applied to the skin as another alternative to injections. They release small amounts of hormone into the skin to be absorbed by your body. Doses cannot be fine-tuned the same way as other methods.
- Pellets: Through testosterone replacement therapy, pellets are implanted under the skin for continuous release for three to six months. While effective, it can be difficult to adjust the dosage of testosterone accordingly unlike other therapies.
Struggling With Low Testosterone? Your Search for the Top Hormone Doctor in Bethesda, Maryland Ends Here!
Have questions about low testosterone? Want to know which treatment is right for you? Then you need to meet with our hormone specialist in nearby Silver Spring! Contact us today at 301-658-7686 to learn more and book your consultation.
