About 40% of men aged 45 and older experience low testosterone. Without testosterone treatment, low testosterone can negatively affect your energy levels, libido, and quality of life. At NY Urology, with two convenient locations in Midtown East and the Forest Hills neighborhood of Queens, New York, board-certified urologist David Shusterman, MD, provides testosterone treatment to men of all ages. Using safe, effective means he can help you feel better. To schedule an appointment, call the office or book a consultation online today.
Testosterone is the male sex hormone. It plays a crucial role in sexual development and guides the transition into puberty. Testosterone is what gives men body and facial hair, a deep voice, and enhanced muscle strength.
As men age, testosterone production begins to decline. Over time, this can result in low blood testosterone levels, a condition known as low testosterone or low T.
The symptoms of low testosterone vary and depend on the severity of the condition. Telltale signs of low testosterone include:
Low testosterone can also affect your mental health. Many men with low testosterone experience mood swings, irritability, and feelings of depression.
To diagnose low testosterone, Dr. Shusterman conducts a physical exam, reviews your medical history, and asks about your symptoms and lifestyle. Afterward, he orders a series of blood tests to analyze the testosterone levels in your body.
Depending on your age and health history, Dr. Shusterman might recommend one (or several) of the following blood tests:
If these measures don’t provide enough information, he might also order a bone density test or an MRI of your pituitary gland.
Testosterone treatment is a group of procedures used to ease the uncomfortable effects of low testosterone. Depending on your symptoms, Dr. Shusterman might recommend:
Testosterone therapy
Testosterone therapy is a type of hormone therapy that uses pellets, patches, or injections to restore balance to your testosterone levels. To achieve the best results, it’s important to attend all of your follow-up appointments and listen to Dr. Shusterman’s instructions carefully.
Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) uses synthetic hormones that mimic those found in your body. Like testosterone therapy, HRT comes in many forms, including pellets, patches, and injections. By restoring your hormone levels, it’s possible to boost your energy levels and libido.
If you have a mild case of low testosterone, you might benefit from healthy lifestyle changes like eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, or losing weight. Oftentimes, changes like these are enough to improve your quality of life.
Only a qualified urologist like Dr. Shusterman can determine the type of testosterone treatment that’s right for you. During your initial consultation, be open and honest. Let him know about the symptoms you’re experiencing and their effect on your life.
After running a series of tests and determining the underlying cause of your symptoms, he develops a custom treatment plan to align with your needs.
To explore testosterone treatment further, schedule an appointment at NY Urology. Call the office and speak with a friendly team member or book a consultation online today.