Aging can be challenging. If you’re a man who used to be full of energy and life, but are suddenly feeling tired and unmotivated, you may wonder if it’s a sign you’re just getting old. But there may be more to it.
If you’ve noticed changes in your energy, mood, or physical performance, you may need to ask: Is it time for a testosterone test?
Signs That May Point to Low Testosterone
Low testosterone doesn’t always look the same in every man, but signs to watch for include:
- Reduced sex drive
- Loss of muscle mass or strength despite regular activity
- Unexplained fatigue
- Low energy levels
- Changes in mood, such as irritability, sadness, or lack of motivation
- Trouble concentrating or memory lapses
- Increased body fat
- Difficulty keeping weight off
- Thinning bones
Is It Time for a Testosterone Test?
There isn’t a universal age when every man should have testosterone levels checked. Routine screening for low testosterone isn’t recommended in men who don’t have symptoms. Doctors generally order testing only when symptoms are present. It’s sometimes done with other laboratory work to rule out different causes.
How Is Testosterone Tested?
Testing is straightforward, but timing matters. Since hormone levels naturally fluctuate throughout the day, blood is usually drawn in the morning when levels are at their highest. To test testosterone:
- A small blood sample is taken from a vein in your arm
- The lab will use the sample to measure your total testosterone
- Free testosterone or related hormones may also be measured at that time
- Your results will be compared against the normal range for men of your age group
What Are the Treatment Options for Low-T?
If testing confirms low testosterone, there are treatments that can help restore balance. Since a number alone doesn’t always tell the full story, your doctor will also take into account the symptoms you are experiencing.
Lifestyle adjustments
Making lifestyle adjustments are the first step to supporting healthier testosterone levels. These include:
- Maintaining a healthy weight
- Strength training and performing high-intensity workouts
- Getting 7 to 9 hours of sleep each night
- Eating lean proteins, whole grains, healthy fats, and plenty of fruits and vegetables
- Limiting alcohol
- Avoid smoking
- Reducing stress
Medical treatments
Sometimes lifestyle adjustments aren’t enough and medical treatments are still needed. Medical options include:
- Topical gels or creams applied daily to the skin
- Injections given every few weeks to maintain levels
- Implantable pellets placed under the skin for longer-term dosing
Each approach has its pros and cons, and your doctor will help match the treatment to your lifestyle, health history, and preferences.
Get Expert Care for Low Testosterone
Living with low energy, low libido, or other symptoms of low T isn’t something you have to accept as inevitable. A simple blood test can provide insight and open the door to treatment that restores your hormone balance.
If you’ve been wondering, “is it time for a testosterone test?”, schedule a visit with a low testosterone doctor in Sprinfield, OR. They can test your levels, explain what the results mean, and develop a plan if treatment is needed.
Don’t continue to suffer from symptoms of Low T – call (541) 334-3350 to schedule an appointment today!