Testosterone is the male hormone that is responsible for developing the testes during puberty. It contributes to male attributes such as facial hair and a deepened voice, while affecting a man’s libido and even his mood. Throughout adulthood, testosterone plays an important role in how a man feels and how his body performs as a whole. Low testosterone levels (or hypogonadism) can impact many aspects of a man’s life and it may present itself in a way you may not expect. Let’s talk about it.
It Can Happen at Any Age
Low testosterone levels don’t just plague older men. A hormone imbalance can present itself at any point in life. However, it’s more common to see testosterone levels decrease once a man is in his thirties. It’s natural for a man’s testosterone levels to decrease when he turns the big 3-0, but that doesn’t mean he needs to feel like an old man! There are many things that can be done, including lifestyle changes and hormone supplements, to help a man look and feel his best.
Low Testosterone Can Cause Low Energy
Unfortunately there’s a stigma attached to low testosterone levels. Many people believe in order to have low t, you have to have a low libido or erectile dysfunction. While yes, some men experience both of those things, most frequently, the number one symptom among men with low testosterone is actually extreme fatigue. To top it off, when men are suffering from such extreme fatigue, they often have trouble sleeping, which is a critical time for testosterone production. This is where supplementing with testosterone has helped many experiencing these symptoms.
Low Testosterone Can Impact Your Appearance
Having trouble losing weight? How about struggling to gain muscle? No matter how hard you try with diet and exercise, does the weight just seem to stick around? This could be a hormone imbalance. Low testosterone levels in men have shown to make it difficult to lose weight and gain muscle. Once levels are brought up to an optimal level, patients begin to see their bodies change. This typically happens between weeks 2-8.
Health Conditions Can Lead To Low T
Do you have diabetes, a thyroid issue or cardiovascular disease? Well, you are more likely to have low testosterone. Additionally, some prescription medications have an impact on hormone levels. This is something that’s very important to discuss with your doctor prior to starting any treatment plan.
Low T Can Be Diagnosed Through a Comprehensive Blood Test
If you’ve noticed that you’ve been feeling extremely fatigued, have trouble focusing, losing weight and have a low sex drive, it may be time to get your hormones checked. Our doctor sends patients to get a comprehensive blood panel to get an inside look at your body and see how everything is working – or not working! Saliva tests are able to check for a quick testosterone level, however, it’s important to run a full panel of blood tests to see if there are any underlying connections causing the hormone imbalance.
If you think you’re suffering from Low Testosterone and would like to speak with our doctor, call Lisa at 973-998-7770 today to schedule your free consultation.