What should I do if I think I have Low Testosterone?
What should I do if I think I have Low Testosterone?
Talk To Your Doctor
Don’t delay
Often men will delay talking to their doctor for months, even years. But the sooner you talk about the issue the quicker you are likely to get your whole life and well-being back in balance.
What should I expect?
- When you get to your appointment, your doctor will ask you about your symptoms, and assess your health.
- If your doctor thinks you might have testosterone deficiency, he or she will suggest that you have a simple blood test to measure your testosterone levels.
- In case the first blood test is abnormal, another one should be done on a different day, to confirm the diagnosis.
- If your blood test results show low testosterone levels and you have symptoms of testosterone deficiency, the doctor may either refer you to a specialist or directly recommend an appropriate course of action.
Guide To Talking With Your Doctor
Having a prepared list in hand is a great way to make sure that you ask the important questions and get the answers you need. It will also help you to answer questions your doctor may ask.
Print this helpful guide to talking with your doctor.
Remember, only your doctor can decide if you need a blood test and provide a diagnosis. So the more information you provide will help them decide what’s best for you.
If you’re taking any prescription medications, over-the-counter medications, or vitamin supplements, be sure to tell your doctor.
These are just a sample of questions you could ask and it is important that you choose and adapt the conversation based on your personal circumstances:
- I don’t feel sick; I just don’t feel like myself anymore. What could be causing it?
- Are the symptoms (mention your symptoms) I’m experiencing related to testosterone deficiency?
- Considering my symptoms, could I be tested for testosterone deficiency?
- How does my diet, fitness, and lifestyle affect my testosterone level?
- (Where appropriate) Could my diabetes/high blood pressure/being overweight/any of my medical conditions be related to testosterone deficiency? If it is not my testosterone levels, could it be something else?
Medical Treatment
Effective treatment will aim to restore testosterone levels to normal and should mean a gradual improvement in energy levels, sex drive/libido, erectile function, concentration and general mood.
The treatment that’s best for you will depend on what you and your doctor decide.
What Can I Do To Increase My Testosterone Levels?
There are certain changes you can make in your daily habits to help you boost your natural level of testosterone:
- Get enough rest. Lack of sleep can result in reduced testosterone levels. Aim for 7-8 hours of sleep per night and rearrange your schedule to make rest a top priority!
- Maintain a healthy weight. Obesity has been linked to the development of Testosterone Deficiency. Losing weight can help increase testosterone levels.
- Change your diet. Eating a healthy, balanced diet will help you feel better generally. Consult your doctor to get dietary advice.
- Reduce Stress.The stress hormone cortisol can reduce your body’s ability to release testosterone. Cutting back on long working hours and increasing daily relaxing activities such as reading or listening to music can help.
References:
- How to Boost Your Testosterone Naturally https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/322508. Last accessed October 2022
BHUK/2020/089-ROI. December 2022
Information placed on this website is not intended as a substitute for consultation with your healthcare professional.
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BHUK/2022/210d-ROI. November 2022