A testosterone test checks the level of this male hormone

Feelings of tiredness, agitation, and loss of interest in everyday activities in men may be may be caused by low testosterone from a variety of reasons and can easily be checked by a simple blood test.

A testosterone test checks the level of this male hormone (androgen) in the blood. Testosterone affects sexual features and development. In men, it is made in large amounts by the testicles. In both men and women, testosterone is made in small amounts by the adrenal glands, and in women, by the ovaries.

• erectile dysfunction (ED)

• lowered sex drive

• decreased muscle mass

• decreased growth of body hair

• fatigue

• hot flashes

• trouble concentrating

At your doctor appointment, you can expect to undergo a physical exam to check your symptoms. You will also likely have blood drawn in order to test your hormone levels. Testosterone levels vary throughout the day and are highest in the morning. For this reason, your doctor will want to take a sample of your blood between 7 and 10 a.m.

Causes

 Autoimmune diseases

 Chronic liver or kidney disease

 Chronic obstructive lung disease

 Genetic causes

 Heart failure

 HIV/AIDS

 Infections (such as mumps)

 Injury to the testicles

 Metabolic disorders

 Obesity

Testosterone replacement therapy

If a man has symptoms of low testosterone and tests show he has an abnormally low testosterone level, a doctor may suggest treatment. For millions of men who have low testosterone levels but no symptoms, no treatment is currently recommended. It is has also not been approved for treating men with low levels because of aging.

Forms of Testosterone Supplements

Testosterone replacement therapy is available in several forms. All can improve testosterone levels:

• Skinpatch (transdermal): Androderm is a skin patch worn on the arm or upper body. It’s applied once a day.

• Gels: AndroGel and Testim come in packets of clear testosterone gel. Testosterone is absorbed directly through the skin when you apply the gel once a day. AndroGel, Axiron, and Fortesta also come in a pump that delivers the amount of testosterone prescribed by your doctor. Natesto is a gel applied inside the nose.

• Mouth patch:Striant is a tablet that sticks to the upper gums above the incisor, the tooth just to the right or left of the two front teeth. Applied twice a day, it continuously releases testosterone into the blood through the oral tissues.

• Injections and implants: Testosterone can also be injected directly into the muscles, or implanted as pellets in the soft tissues. Your body slowly absorbs the testosterone into the bloodstream.

If you would like to speak to a Urologist over concerns regarding testosterone or for more information then contact Phyathai Sriracha Hospital on 087 – 1000 – 990 Email: [email protected] www.phyathai-sriracha.com