If you are a middle-aged or older man, do you assume that a decline in energy, low libido, moodiness, and weight gain are just part of ‘normal aging’?
If so, you are not alone. Today many men are just simply unaware of why these symptoms occur & it’s estimated that ‘Low T’ affects 4-5 million American men, yet only about 5% of those affected are currently receiving treatment.
Is Low Testosterone Normal in Older Men?
Testosterone levels decline naturally as men age, similar to the decline of the female hormone estrogen in women. This decline in testosterone and the symptoms it causes have sometimes been referred to as ‘male menopause.’ The gradual decline in testosterone due to aging can cause you to have less frequent erections and a decreased sex drive, but it’s not normal for aging men to completely lose interest in sex.
In addition to causing erectile dysfunction and a diminished sex drive, low testosterone can also affect your muscle strength, mood, and energy level. Since low testosterone can also be due to disease, injury, drugs, and certain types of cancer, it’s important for men of all ages to know the warning signs and symptoms of hypogonadism (when the testes produce little or no hormones).
Testosterone production does decline with age, however, in some cases, it can decline to abnormally low levels. Low T may also be caused by other medical conditions, infections, trauma to the testicles, use of certain prescriptions, and genetic factors.
Symptoms of Low Testosterone
- decreased sex drive
- erectile dysfunction
- reduced energy, strength and endurance levels
- sleep issues
- emotional problems including sadness, irritability, difficulty concentrating, and depression
- increased breast size and tenderness
- decrease in the amount of body hair
- decreased penis or testicle size
- loss of muscle mass
Getting Tested for Low T
A simple blood test by our office can determine your testosterone level. Testosterone replacement therapy can relieve many of the signs and symptoms of low testosterone. If tests confirm you have low testosterone, further testing can determine if a testicular disorder or a pituitary abnormality is the cause. Based on specific signs and symptoms, additional studies can pinpoint the cause.
Testosterone testing also plays an important role in managing hypogonadism. This helps your determine the right dosage and method of therapy, both initially and over time.
Dr. Gary C. Bellman is an expert regarding the topic of hypogonadism and all concerns surrounding low testosterone levels.
For an appointment or consultation with Dr. Gary Bellman, please contact the office or call 818-912-1899