Low Testosterone
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Dr. Sean P. Nikravan, MD, FACE
Endocrinologists located in Newport Beach, CA
Though testosterone levels in men start to decline around age 30, most men rarely notice any changes. However, when testosterone levels drop quickly and significantly, you may have symptoms that are hard to miss, like low energy and a decreased sex drive. In Newport Beach, California, Dr. Sean P. Nikravan, MD, FACE, and the team specialize in diagnosing and treating low testosterone, also known as male andropause. To find out if your sudden change in energy and mood is due to low testosterone, call the office or book a consultation online today.
Low Testosterone Q&A
What is low testosterone?
When your blood testosterone levels are less than 300 nanograms per deciliter (ng/dl), you have low testosterone. Testosterone production naturally starts to decline in men around age 30 at a rate of about 1% a year.
The slow decline in testosterone goes unnoticed in most men under age 60. Men in their 80s have an average blood testosterone level of about 200 ng/dl.
However, when testosterone levels drop quickly and unexpectedly, you have a condition known as male andropause. About 30% of men over age 50 experience andropause and the symptoms that come with a sudden decline in testosterone.
What causes low testosterone?
Low testosterone may develop from any number of causes. In addition to age, other causes of low testosterone include:
- Cancer
- Stroke
- Sleep apnea
- Obesity
- Metabolic syndrome
- Certain medications
- Exposure to toxins
Male hypogonadism may also cause low testosterone. The condition usually appears during puberty and affects growth and development. Male hypogonadism may occur from a condition you were born with, such as Noonan syndrome, or develop from an injury or infection.
What are the symptoms of low testosterone?
Low testosterone symptoms vary and may go unnoticed during the early stages of your hormonal changes.
Common symptoms of low testosterone include:
- Reduced energy levels
- Irritability
- Low sex drive
- Erectile dysfunction (ED)
- Weight gain
- Memory loss
- Shrunken testes
- Hair loss all over the body
- Swollen breasts
- Night sweats
- Thinning skin
- Feeling of vertigo
These symptoms may also affect your self-confidence and self-esteem. When left untreated, your low testosterone may lead to other health problems such as osteoporosis or cardiovascular health issues.
How is low testosterone treated?
Dr. Sean P. Nikravan, MD, FACE, treats low testosterone with testosterone hormone replacement (THR). When your blood testosterone levels return to normal, you should feel an improvement in symptoms and your quality of life.
The endocrinology specialist offers THR in several forms, including oral, injection, topical gels, and a transdermal patch. Some men may experience weight gain due to water retention after starting THR.
Low testosterone affects your mood, energy, and quality of life. To learn more about THR and how it can help you feel more like your usual self, call Dr. Sean P. Nikravan, MD, FACE, or schedule an appointment online today.