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Jonathan Lazare, MD

Testosterone Abnormalities

Testosterone Abnormalities: Six Signs of Low Testosterone -and What Can Be Done About It

Testosterone is the primary sex hormone in males. A testosterone abnormality can cause physical, psychological, and emotional problems. At the same time, it is not uncommon for men to develop a testosterone deficiency as they get older. According to data cited by UW Health, 39 percent of men over the age of 45 have low levels of testosterone.

At Lazare Urology, we want to help all men dealing with testosterone abnormalities get the treatment and support that they need. Low testosterone can have adverse effects—but treatment options are available. Here, our New York City urologist for testosterone deficiency highlights six signs of low testosterone and explains the key things that can be done about it.

Look for the Common Warning Signs of Low Testosterone

Low Sex Drive

Testosterone plays a key role in male sex drive. One of the biggest early warning signs of a testosterone deficiency is reduced sex drive—especially if there has been a significant change from previous sex drives. Of course, a lot of other issues, including lifestyle and emotional issues can affect sex drive as well.

Erectile Dysfunction

Are you suffering from erectile dysfunction (ED)? If so, profoundly low levels of testosterone may be contributing to the problem. Testosterone facilitates the male erection. While the erection is mostly a blood flow event, very low testosterone levels can worsen erectile dysfunction.
Osteoporosis:
Low testosterone can lead to decreased bone density and osteoporosis in men. This can be dangerous and can sometimes lead to bone fractures. Testosterone replacement therapy can eliminate osteoporosis due to testosterone deficiency.

Loss of Muscle Strength

Testosterone is one of the main reasons why men tend to have more muscle mass than women. When an adult male develops a testosterone abnormality, it can adversely affect his muscle mass. He could have trouble building muscle or he may even lose muscle mass that he already has. It should be followed upon.

Increased Depression and Anxiety

Testosterone is the main male sex hormone. Yet, it plays a far more comprehensive role in the human body than most people understand. When men have low testosterone, it can negatively affect their psyche. In fact, study after study has shown that low levels of testosterone are associated with increased risk of depression, anxiety, mood disorders, and other major mental health issues. Sudden onset of depression or a mood disorder may be a sign of low testosterone.

General Fatigue or Lethargy

Low testosterone levels can lead to decreased energy levels, fatigue and lethargy. As people age, they simply do not tend to have the same energy levels that they did when they were younger. Low testosterone, can exacerbate this process. If you are feeling more fatigued and less energetic lately, it could be a sign of a testosterone abnormality.

Reduced Concentration & Mental Processing

Finally, testosterone also impacts the concentration ability and mental processing power of adult men. If you are over 45 and you feel like you are getting less “sharp” mentally, that could actually be the sign of low levels of testosterone.

You Can Treat a Testosterone Deficiency

As noted previously, testosterone deficiencies are relatively common among older men. Indeed, 4 in 10 men over the age of 45 have reduced levels of testosterone. The rate of low testosterone rises as the age cohorts go up. Senior men have the highest rates of testosterone abnormalities. Of course, testosterone deficiency can be an issue at any age. Plenty of men in their 20s and 30s have issues with low testosterone. No matter your age, there are options available to treat a testosterone deficiency. The treatment option that works best for you will depend on your specific situation:

Patches: Testosterone can be delivered directly into the body through a patch—usually these patches are placed on the upper arm or upper thigh. Patches deliver a regulated amount of testosterone daily but must be replaced every day. They should be applied each night to the back, abdomen, upper arm, or thigh.

Gels: Testosterone gels are generally similar to patches. The gel is put on the skin—usually on the shoulder or thigh—and delivers testosterone into the body. These work very similarly to testosterone patches and require daily application.
Injections: Men with low levels of testosterone may benefit from an injection given by a doctor, a nurse, or by themselves. Typically, testosterone injections are given on a monthly basis.

Regardless of your circumstances, a New York urologist with experience treating testosterone abnormalities can sit down with you and help you determine the best course of action. Treatment usually begins with measuring your current level of testosterone. Next, your symptoms—whether it is reduced sexual function, loss of muscle mass, or mood issues—should be assessed. While testosterone deficiency is often a culprit, there could be other health-related issues that need to be addressed as well.

How Board-Certified New York City Urologist Dr. Jonathan Lazare Can Help

The science is clear: A testosterone deficiency can cause a number of different adverse physical, psychological, and emotional effects in men. Jonathan Lazare, MD is a board-certified urologist and a nationally-recognized expert in men’s sexual health with deep experience helping people address testosterone abnormalities. When you reach out to our office, you will have a chance to consult with a Brooklyn urologist who is prepared to:

  • Answer your questions and address your concerns during a confidential appointment;
  • Carefully review your medical history and assess your testosterone levels; and
  • Develop a comprehensive treatment plan that works best for your specific situation.

Consult With a Top-Rated Urologist in Brooklyn, New York

At Lazare Urology, our New York urologist has the skills, training, and experience that you can count on. If you have any specific questions about testosterone deficiencies and the available treatment, we can help. Give us a call or send us a message through our website for your strictly private initial appointment. Our urology practice helps people with testosterone abnormalities in Brooklyn, Queens, Manhattan, and throughout the wider region.

Contact Us Today for Help

To find out more about erectile dysfunction and treatment options, call or contact Dr. Lazare and book a telemedicine appointment There are no other national websites offering these types of visits with an experienced, board-certified urologist. Take the first step and reach out today.

— Model, not actual patient