LOW TESTOSTERONE (LOW T)

Understanding Low Testosterone In Milford, MA

Have you been experiencing a decrease in your sex drive? Or perhaps you are feeling a lack of energy and are easily fatigued. Or perhaps you have been gaining weight. These symptoms could be a sign of a condition known as Testosterone Deficiency (Low T).                                                                               

At Urology Specialists of Milford, Dr. Steinberg is an expert at diagnosing and treating Low Testosterone. Please contact our office to schedule a consultation at (508) 473 6333.

  What is Low Testosterone in men?  

Testosterone is the hormone responsible for a man’s sex drive. When a man is diagnosed with low testosterone, also known as hypogonadism, he may be experiencing low libido, lack of energy, erectile dysfunction, and other symptoms.   

Testosterone deficiency (Low T) affects more than three million men in the U.S. and the prevalence increases with age.  It is estimated that testosterone deficiency can affect up to 38 percent of the population; however, it is estimated that only five percent of affected men receive treatment.

  What are the causes of Low Testosterone in men?  

test

Aging is the most common cause of Low Testosterone levels in men

Causes of Low Testosterone include:

  • Aging
  • Diabetes 
  • Obesity
  • Chronic medical conditions (especially liver or kidney disease)
  • Infections
  • Hormonal disorders
  • Medications (narcotics, chemotherapy)

  What are the symptoms of Low Testosterone in men?  

Common symptoms of Low Testosterone may include:

  • Decreased energy
  • Decreased libido (sex drive)
  • Erectile dysfunction
  • Loss of muscle mass
  • Decreased exercise tolerance
  • Change in mental acuity or cognitive function
  • Weight Gain

Low testosterone has also been linked to metabolic syndrome (obesity, high blood pressure, diabetes, and high cholesterol) as well as decreased bone density, or osteoporosis.

  How is Low Testosterone diagnosed in men?  

test2

Low testosterone is an often under-diagnosed condition in men because other psychiatric and medical conditions, as well as medications, can cause the same symptoms caused by Low Testosterone.

A simple blood test to check for a testosterone deficiency, often administered in the early morning, is typically the first way to diagnose the condition. Dr. Steinberg will order the measurement of morning total and free testosterone blood levels which can help establish the diagnosis of hypogonadism. LH and FSH are specialized blood tests which are ordered to determine whether the issue arises from the testicle or from abnormal brain hormone levels. To further clarify the cause of hypogonadism, further hormonal testing such as serum prolactin, thyroid function tests and sex hormone binding globulin levels may be ordered.

A general recommendation is that a testosterone level of less than 300 is considered low. Low testosterone levels combined with clinical symptoms may warrant Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT).

LEARN ABOUT TREATMENT OPTIONS FOR LOW TESTOSTERONE Request An Appointment

Urology Specialists of Milford, LLC

Office Hours

Monday:

9:00 am-5:00 pm

Tuesday:

9:00 am-5:00 pm

Wednesday:

9:00 am-5:00 pm

Thursday:

9:00 am-5:00 pm

Friday:

9:00 am-4:00 pm

Saturday:

Sunday:

Closed