Testosterone is produced mainly by the adrenal glands and the testes and contributes to a number of essential body processes. It controls male sex organ development and during puberty as secondary sexual components develop kicks it into high gear.
As a man matures, their testosterone plays a significant role in their production of sperm and red blood cells, sex drive, fat distribution and the increasing development and maintenance of muscle strength and mass.
As you age, your testosterone levels begin to gradually drop. Around the age of 45, four out of 10 men end up with low testosterone. You may experience a range of symptoms when your testosterone production drops drastically. Some signs of low testosterone may include:
Doctors perform tests to check the testosterone levels in your blood. They may use these tests to diagnose disorders that too little or too much testosterone causes.
Typically, the doctor will give you a total testosterone test. This measures both attached and free testosterone. Physicians in some cases check your free testosterone levels to check for certain conditions. This is a blood test that is performed in the morning usually when you have high testosterone levels. The physician will grab a blood sample from a vein your finger or arm.
You may require other tests depending on your results. Some tests may include:
Certain medications will have an effect on your testosterone levels and thereby change your test results. You need to let your doctor know about all the medicines you’re taking, even over-the-counter (OTC) drugs. You may have to stop taking certain drugs before your test.
Once your physician gets your test results back, they’ll take a look at them. If your testosterone levels are lower or higher than normal, your doctor will determine if they mean you have an underlying medical condition.
Your physician will go over your test results with you and explain them in detail. They’ll discuss any treatment plans you could benefit from, including hormone replacement for men. They may suggest you make some lifestyle changes, such as like dietary changes for healthy weight loss or exercising to build muscle, to balance your levels of testosterone.
If you are having symptoms of low testosterone, be sure to contact us at Gershon Preventative Medicine in Virginia Beach, Virginia to learn more. Medical Director Dr. Steven Gershon, M.D. tailors bioidentical hormone replacement therapy for men treatments to your individual and specific needs.
