Low Testosterone

About 40% of men 45 and older have low testosterone, a hormone imbalance that can cause unpleasant symptoms when not treated. At GET WELLness SOON in Benton, Tennessee, highly trained family nurse practitioner Sally Moss, MSN, RN, APN, FNP-C, treats low testosterone using hormone replacement therapy (HRT) and other natural solutions. Schedule hormone testing at GET WELLness SOON by phone or request an appointment online today. 

What is low testosterone?

Low testosterone at GET WELLness SOON is a type of hormone imbalance common among men over 40, though anyone can experience it. It may cause fatigue and other physical and mental health concerns when left untreated. While common among men over 40, low testosterone is something you don’t have to live with, and it’s easily treatable. 

What are the symptoms of low testosterone?

Symptoms of low testosterone include:

• Fatigue
• Weight gain
• Low bone density
• Loss of muscle mass or strength
• Increased body fat
• Depression or anxiety
• Erectile dysfunction (ED)
• Low libido (sex drive)
• Problems sleeping
• Difficulty concentrating
• Reduced pubic and armpit hair
• Hot flashes
• Lower sperm count
• Infertility 
• Shrinking testicles 
• Enlarged breast tissue

Your symptoms may be mild and not bother you much, or severe and debilitating if left untreated.

What are the risk factors for low testosterone?

Low testosterone risk factors include:

• Obesity
• Lack of exercise
• Poor dietary habits
• Aging (being over 40)
• Poorly managed diabetes or other chronic diseases
• HIV/AIDS
• Sleep apnea
• Kidney or liver problems
• Anabolic steroid use
• Alcohol misuse
• Stress
• Some medications
• Family history of low testosterone

Adopting healthy habits may lessen your risk of low testosterone, but you can’t always avoid it due to aging, your environment, or genetics. 

How is low testosterone diagnosed?

At GET WELLness SOON, Sally diagnoses low testosterone and other hormone imbalances using a simple blood or saliva test (hormone testing). She also reviews your medical history and symptoms, completes a physical exam if necessary, and asks about your lifestyle habits and health goals. She tailors a plan that maximizes hormone balance.

You might not be a candidate for hormone therapy if you have a history of cancer, heart problems, or similar medical concerns.

How is low testosterone treated?

Treatment of low testosterone involves making healthy lifestyle modifications or trying hormone therapy to boost your levels. You might use testosterone gels, lotions, or injections. Sally monitors your levels every few months or as needed to ensure your testosterone becomes or remains balanced and your symptoms subside. 

If you suspect you’ve developed low testosterone or you have its risk factors, schedule an in-office evaluation at GET WELLness SOON by phone or request one online today.