Testosterone Deficiency
TESTOSTERONE DEFICIENCY IN MALES
Testosterone is a hormone which is produced in the testes and is responsible for male characteristics, such as facial hair, deepening of voice, and muscle mass. As men age and hit age 30, their testosterone levels drop causing metabolic changes. Because of low testosterone levels, men will gain weight, lose muscle mass, and lose sexual drive.
If you suspect that your testosterone level is low, there are some things that you should consider. First, and most important, you need to see your doctor. During your doctor visit, you can evaluate why your testosterone level is low. It can be due to many things such as injury, infection, chemotherapy, chronic illnesses, etc. These first must be eliminated. After elimination of any of these factors, a blood test can be performed which will determine the amount of testosterone in your body. Based on this level, you can determine what course of action to take. However, testosterone should never be used if you have prostate cancer.
There are many types of options that are available to you from vitamins to prescription medications. Vitamin choices can help, but are often not regulated and you do not always get the same results. Vitamins are not any safer than prescription medications because your liver and organs still have side effects from them. With medications prescribed by your doctor, they have a better idea on the amount of drug you will need to take for a desired result.
There are several prescription therapies available, intramuscular injections which are usually given once or twice a week, patches, gels, strips that are applied to the gums, and oral pills. When taking these therapies, you will be monitored by your doctor for side effects on your liver, heart, and prostate. Trying these therapies on your own may lead to stroke and/or death. Working with your doctor is essential in living to work out another day.
Dr. John Biasco
Testosterone is a hormone which is produced in the testes and is responsible for male characteristics, such as facial hair, deepening of voice, and muscle mass. As men age and hit age 30, their testosterone levels drop causing metabolic changes. Because of low testosterone levels, men will gain weight, lose muscle mass, and lose sexual drive.
If you suspect that your testosterone level is low, there are some things that you should consider. First, and most important, you need to see your doctor. During your doctor visit, you can evaluate why your testosterone level is low. It can be due to many things such as injury, infection, chemotherapy, chronic illnesses, etc. These first must be eliminated. After elimination of any of these factors, a blood test can be performed which will determine the amount of testosterone in your body. Based on this level, you can determine what course of action to take. However, testosterone should never be used if you have prostate cancer.
There are many types of options that are available to you from vitamins to prescription medications. Vitamin choices can help, but are often not regulated and you do not always get the same results. Vitamins are not any safer than prescription medications because your liver and organs still have side effects from them. With medications prescribed by your doctor, they have a better idea on the amount of drug you will need to take for a desired result.
There are several prescription therapies available, intramuscular injections which are usually given once or twice a week, patches, gels, strips that are applied to the gums, and oral pills. When taking these therapies, you will be monitored by your doctor for side effects on your liver, heart, and prostate. Trying these therapies on your own may lead to stroke and/or death. Working with your doctor is essential in living to work out another day.
Dr. John Biasco