Guide to Low Testosterone and best relationship

Testosterone may be the most notorious of hormones. It conjures up thoughts of muscles and masculinity. In fact, testosterone does fuel sex drive and muscle mass, but it also regulates mood and bone strength. When a man's level falls below normal, a doctor may prescribe shots, gels, or patches. But there is some debate over who needs treatment.A slow drop in testosterone is a normal part of aging, sometimes called "andropause" or "male menopause." For many men, this doesn't cause any significant problems or symptoms. Others may notice a decline in muscle mass, depression, or less interest in sex.Low testosterone can cause visible changes in some men: Smaller, softer testicles Larger breasts Thinner muscles (happens slowly over a period of years) Loss of body hair You may think osteoporosis, or brittle bone disease, is a woman's disease, but it can affect men as well. Low testosterone is a common cause. As testosterone levels fall, the bones may get thinner, weaker, and more likely to break.Some men have subtle problems like mood changes, poor concentration, and less energy. These symptoms can easily be caused by other health problems though, like anemia, depression, sleep troubles, or a chronic illness. Getting older is the most common reason testosterone levels dip. Illnesses are sometimes to blame, including: Type 2 diabetes Liver obesityYour doctor may suggest a testosterone test if you have: Erectile dysfunction Lower sex drive Low sperm count A loss of height, body hair, or muscle sizeTestosterone comes in several forms, including shots, gels, patches, and tablets you place on your gums. Injections are the least expensive option, but they can be painful. You take the shots every 2 to 4 weeks, as prescribed by your doctor. You may also be able to get the medicine without injections by using a nasal pump. Your testosterone levels can swing up and down between doses. If you have an illness known to lower testosterone, your doctor may want to test your levels of the hormone. Pituitary gland problems Testicle injuries Tumors Radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and steroid medicines can also affect testosterone levels. Your doctor may suggest a testosterone test if you have: Erectile dysfunction Lower sex drive Low sperm count A loss of height, body hair, or muscle size If you have an illness known to lower testosterone, your doctor may want to test your levels of the hormone. If you have low blood levels of testosterone AND symptoms that affect your daily life, your doctor may suggest taking supplemental testosterone. Not everyone with low testosterone will need treatment. You may want to see a specialist to discuss the risks and possible benefits of treatment. Look for a urologist or an endocrinologist, a doctor who treats hormone problems. If you need treatment, your doctor may prescribe testosterone to boost your levels. Some studies suggest this can strengthen men's muscles, protect their bones, and improve their sex drive, improve erectile dysfunction, and contribute to improved mood. But the effects can be quite different from one man to the next.Testosterone comes in several forms, including shots, gels, patches, and tablets you place on your gums. Injections are the least expensive option, but they can be painful. You take the shots every 2 to 4 weeks, as prescribed by your doctor. You may also be able to get the medicine without injections by using a nasal pump. Your testosterone levels can swing up and down between doses.