What is the role of testosterone? The Role of Testosterone, Testosterone therapy is the most important sex hormone that men have. It is responsible for the typical male characteristics and helps maintain sex drive, sperm production, pubic and body hair, muscle, and bone. The brain controls the production of testosterone by the testes. [embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wsn3pf9mLFU[/embed] Low testosterone (also called hypogonadism) can cause:  • A drop in sex drive • Poor erections • Low sperm count • Increased breast tissue Over time, low testosterone may cause a man to lose body hair, muscle bulk and strength, accumulate body fat, and have weaker bones (osteoporosis), mood changes, less energy and smaller testes. What causes low testosterone? Low testosterone can be caused by injury (trauma, castration, radiation or chemotherapy), testicular infection, hormonal disorders (e.g., pituitary tumors or diseases, high levels of prolactin), or other systematic diseases (such as HIV/AIDS, chronic liver and kidney disease, too much body fat, Type 2 Diabetes and associated Diabetes). Some medications and several genetic conditions (Klinefelter syndrome, hemochromatosis, Kallmann syndrome, Prader-Willi syndrome) also can cause low testosterone. Many older men have low testosterone levels and often, the cause is not known. How is low testosterone diagnosed? During a physical exam, your doctor will examine body hair, breast size, size and consistency of the testes, scrotum, penis size, and ability to see in all directions. Your doctor will also use blood tests to see if the total testosterone level is within the normal range. This is generally 300 to 1,000 ng/dL but this may differ depending on the laboratory. To diagnose low testosterone you may need more than one early-morning (7 – 10 a.m.) blood test and, sometimes, other tests of the pituitary gland. How is low testosterone treated?  Testosterone replacement therapy can improve sexual interest, erectile function, mood and energy, body hair growth, bone density, and muscle mass. There are several methods of testosterone replacement: • Injections • Patches • Gel The best method will depend on the cause of the problem, the patient’s preference and tolerance, and cost. There are risks with long-term use of any testosterone delivery method for men over 50. Possible Risks of Testosterone Treatment: 1) A high red blood cell count 2) Occasional stopping of breathing during sleep (sleep apnea) 3) An increase in prostate enlargement or prostate cancer growth 4) Fluid build-up (rarely) 5) Breast enlargement 6) Acne African American men and men over 40 years of age who have close relatives with prostate cancer and all men over 50 years of age should be carefully monitored for prostate cancer during testosterone treatment. Men with breast cancer or known or suspected prostate cancer should not receive testosterone therapy. What should you do with this information? The Role of Testosterone, If you have symptoms, talk with a specialist. Be open with your doctor about your medical history, all prescription and nonprescription drugs you are now taking sexual problems, and any major changes in your life. If you would like more information about hormone replacement therapy, click here and complete our short contact form. One of our Clinical Assistants would be happy to explain your options. Testosterone Injections – Curious about testosterone injections Therapy? Read more about what you can expect from this treatment and contact us for more information (866) 224-5698.

Testosterone Therapy Information

1. What Is Testosterone?
2. Therapy Info
3. Testosterone Injections
4. symptoms of Low Testosterone
5. causes of Low Testosterone
6. Low Testosterone in Men
7. Low Testosterone in Women
8. Low Testosterone
9. Testosterone Cypionate
10. Testosterone Propionate
11. Testosterone Enanthate
12. Testosterone Patches
13. Testosterone Gels
14. Testosterone Boosters
15. Side Effects of Testosterone