Testosterone Therapy: What Men Need to Know About Low T and TRT Treatment Los Angeles Times

Everyday signs of low testosterone in men as experts warn it is a key link to erectile dysfunction Health

These include cutting back on drinking or smoking, reducing stress and increasing physical activity. Low testosterone can be caused by numerous things, with illness, injuries, stress and genetic conditions all playing a role in how the hormone is produced. If this is the case then fear not, as one medical expert has outlined everyday symptoms of low testosterone and how you can amend it. Which is why concerns about low levels of testosterone may be a source of anxiety for men.

While sedentary behavior, poor diet, and exposure to environmental toxins all decrease T levels over time, prevention is possible. Today, an estimated 25 percent of men over the age of 30 have low testosterone (or, less than 300 ng/dL of testosterone in their blood). However, data suggests that low testosterone impacts up to 40 percent of men over the age of 40. Ahead, men’s health experts answer the question, and share tips for supporting your T levels at any age.

Many men are well aware of prescription drugs that are used as male performance enhancers. However, there are also many all natural approaches to combating this same problem. Such male enhancement supplements can be purchased and used without the need for a prescription, and many positive user testimonials attest to the claimed benefits of these herbal supplements. Of course, as with all supplements, it is important to research each product before making any purchases. Some things that cause low testosterone can also cause a low sperm count.

The FAI is a calculation that takes into account the ratio between total testosterone and sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG), a protein that binds testosterone in the blood. Equilibrium dialysis, on the other hand, directly measures the amount of free testosterone using a more sophisticated laboratory technique. It’s important to remember that while a testosterone blood test can provide valuable insights into your hormonal health, it should not be the only factor considered when assessing your overall well-being. Other factors such as symptoms, medical history, and physical examination should also be taken into account. Additionally, it’s recommended to consult with a healthcare professional to interpret the results and discuss appropriate treatment options if necessary. To accurately measure testosterone levels, a healthcare provider will typically order a blood test known as a testosterone assay.

Even high-performing men balancing careers, families, and fitness can find themselves battling unexplained fatigue, diminished focus, low libido, and persistent sluggishness despite adequate rest. Another way to ensure more accuracy in testing is to make sure that you are following all of the instructions provided by the at-home lab. This may include the time of day that the labs should be drawn or where you are in your menstrual cycle. “Lifting also promotes muscle growth, reduces visceral fat, and further aids metabolism, which supports overall hormone health and well-being,” says Bailey. With that, he and Houman suggest that guys of all ages strength train 3 to 5 days per week. Another reason why you may want to maintain a healthy level of testosterone is due to its link with erectile dysfunction, which impacts up to one in five men in the UK.

These specialists can perform specific tests to measure testosterone levels accurately. The most common test used to measure testosterone levels is a blood test, which is typically done in the morning when testosterone levels are at their highest. Low testosterone levels can lead to a condition called hypogonadism, which can affect puberty and reproductive health. Symptoms of low testosterone include fatigue, reduced muscle mass, increased body fat, decreased libido, and erectile dysfunction. If your testosterone levels are low, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional who specializes in hormone therapy or endocrinology. They can help determine the underlying cause of low testosterone and develop a treatment plan tailored to your specific needs.

For example, low testosterone levels can cause symptoms like fatigue, decreased libido, and a decrease in muscle mass. In contrast, high testosterone levels can affect growth and development, fertility, and may be a sign of conditions like polycystic ovarian syndrome or congenital adrenal hyperplasia. This test is often recommended when symptoms of low testosterone arise, such as reduced sex drive, persistent fatigue, or loss of muscle mass. It can also be used to evaluate conditions like delayed puberty in younger males or to monitor the effectiveness of testosterone replacement therapy. In some cases, the test may reveal high testosterone levels, which could point to underlying issues such as adrenal gland disorders or the use of anabolic steroids. These limitations hamper the ability to elucidate the exact role of testosterone in urinary stones.

Meanwhile, one Journal of Clinical Medicine study reports that regular alcohol consumption can damage the Leydig cells responsible for testosterone production. To support hormone balance, Houman recommends cutting back on these substances or discussing a reduction plan with your healthcare provider. Physically, individuals may experience reduced muscle mass, decreased bone density, and a drop in energy levels, which make everyday tasks more challenging and increase the risk of injury, says Bailey. Plus, across the lifetime, it can result in increased risk for things like insulin resistance, osteoporosis (low bone density), and cardiovascular disease, says Houman. Some research suggests a potential link between higher exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) and lower testosterone levels, says Houman. This is likely because they can disrupt both endocrine function and healthy metabolism. A 2023 study in Environmental Research reports a link between EDCs and a decrease in serum testosterone.

The blood test for does running boost testosterone involves a simple and straightforward process. The individual being tested will have blood drawn from a vein, typically from the arm. The test measures the amount of testosterone in the blood and provides a numerical value that indicates the level of the hormone. “Lifestyle changes across generations, such as reduced physical activity and unhealthy diets, further exacerbate the problem,” says Bailey. But by and large, he says this lack of movement and nutrient-dense food leads to low T by contributing to fat mass, obesity, and metabolic dysfunction, which are linked to lower testosterone levels. It is important to remember that testosterone levels are just one piece of the puzzle when it comes to overall health. While low testosterone levels may contribute to certain symptoms, they are not always the sole cause.

If your results indicate low testosterone, your provider will discuss possible causes, such as aging, hypogonadism, or underlying medical conditions. Symptoms of low testosterone are particularly common in men over 40 and may require targeted interventions to address. Ultimately, the serum testosterone test is more than just a diagnostic tool—it offers a comprehensive view of your overall health. By collaborating with your healthcare provider to interpret the results, you can take meaningful steps to address any concerns and enhance your quality of life. Even if you don’t have any symptoms of low testosterone, it’s still good to get a blood test annually, she says.