Some information provided by the Urology Care Foundation.
Testosterone testing is used to diagnose several conditions in men as well as women. Testosterone is the main sex hormone in men, produced mainly by the testicles, and is responsible for male physical characteristics. Although it is considered to be a “male” sex hormone, it is present in the blood of both males and females. The ovaries produce both testosterone and estrogen. Relatively small quantities of testosterone are released into your bloodstream by the ovaries and adrenal glands.
Low Testosterone in Women
The ovaries produce both testosterone and estrogen. Relatively small quantities of testosterone are released into your bloodstream by the ovaries and adrenal glands. A sudden drop in testosterone can affect a woman’s libido, energy levels, mood etc. If you’re wondering whether the following changes are related to low testosterone, talk with your doctor. Changes include:
- Fatigue and Exhaustion
- Weight gain and difficulty losing weight
- Decreased sex drive
- Mood swings and/or depression
- Difficulty concentrating
- Hair loss
Low Testosterone in Men
It is possible for some men to experience low levels of testosterone, this is likely to be known as hypogonadism or low-T. A man’s testosterone level normally decreases with age. About 4 out of 10 men over the age of 45 have low testosterone. There are sexual and non-sexual signs of low testosterone.
Sexual signs include:
- Low sex drive
- Poor erections (weaker and fewer)
- Wanting sex less often
Non-sexual signs include:
- Increase in body fat
- Lower energy
- Reduced muscle mass
- Feeling depressed
- Anemia (low iron)
- Loss of calcium from bone
How is Testosterone Tested?
Low testosterone is found with a blood test. In general, a diagnosis of low testosterone is made if your hormone level is below 300 ng/dL. Your health care provider might also do a PSA (prostate specific antigen) blood test to check for signs of prostate cancer. After the tests, your doctor will discuss your results with you and help you understand what they mean. Any follow-up testing or treatment plans should be discussed during an appointment with your doctor.
Finally…
Testosterone treatment is a life-long therapy, just like in other chronic conditions. Stopping treatment will result in low levels. If you have any of these symptoms or have any questions, Contact us about scheduling a testosterone screening.
