After the age of 30, men naturally start to experience a decline in testosterone production. Some men do not experience any symptoms of low testosterone, while others may notice emotional, physical, and sexual changes that can cause some concern. Below are the five best treatments for low testosterone.
The body needs testosterone to build strong bones and muscle mass, regulate fat distribution, and produce red blood cells. Some men with low testosterone experience hair loss, irritability, reduced energy, difficulty sleeping, decreased sexual desire, and even erectile dysfunction.
The good news is that many treatment options are available to men who may be experiencing symptoms of low testosterone.
What Causes Low Testosterone?
Low testosterone can be the result of many medical and lifestyle factors. For most men, the number one cause of low testosterone is age. Other causes can include:
- Stress
- Depression
- Alcohol use
- Illicit drug use
- Heart disease
- Hypothyroidism
- Diabetes
Common Testosterone Treatments
Several different testosterone treatments are available to manage your symptoms of low testosterone and improve your overall health. Testosterone treatment can be individualized, and what is best for you may be different than someone else. Here are the five best treatments for low testosterone.
1. Testosterone Pellets
Testosterone pellets are small testosterone implants placed under the skin on the hip. These pellets slowly release testosterone into the bloodstream for a few months before they eventually dissolve. The pellets are 3mm to 9mm in size and are placed under the skin during a nearly painless and straightforward procedure at your doctor’s office.
2. Testosterone Injections
Testosterone injections are given during a visit to your doctor’s office and are typically needed every two weeks. The injections are placed into the muscle of the upper thigh, deltoid, or buttocks.
3. Testosterone Patches
Testosterone patches work by secreting a steady dose of testosterone that is absorbed into the skin and then transferred to the bloodstream. The patches can be placed on your skin at home and are usually changed every 24 hours.
4. Testosterone Creams
Testosterone creams are applied to the skin and then absorbed into the bloodstream. The cream is applied to the shoulder, upper arms, and thighs every 24 hours at home.
5. Oral Testosterone Pills
Oral testosterone pills are available but are used less frequently than other testosterone treatments. Oral testosterone pills are more expensive than other treatment options and have an increased risk of causing long-term liver damage. Oral testosterone pills are usually taken twice daily when your doctor recommends them.
Benefits of Testosterone Replacement
If you suffer from low testosterone, replacement therapy may be what you are searching for to look and feel your best. Testosterone replacement has numerous benefits, and most men see an improvement in their low testosterone symptoms relatively quickly after starting their treatments. Some benefits of testosterone replacement include:
- An increase in muscle mass and bone health
- Improved energy and endurance
- Decreased anxiety
- Decreased symptoms of depression
- Improved memory and concentration
- Increased sexual desire
- Improvement in erectile dysfunction symptoms
- An overall sense of wellbeing
Discover the Best Treatment for Low Testosterone for You
Many treatment options are available to men with low testosterone. Some treatments can last longer than others and require fewer visits with your doctor, while others need more frequent visits. There are multiple factors that go into the decision of which type of therapy to choose, and your doctor can help you determine which is best.
Get your vitality back – schedule an appointment today!