The symptoms
The American Urological Association lists these among the signs of testosterone deficiency (AUA guideline):
- Reduced energy and fatigue
- Loss of lean muscle
- A lower sex drive
- Weaker erections
- Depressed mood
- Poor concentration
- Irritability
Every one of them has other possible causes — poor sleep, thyroid disease, weight, medications, stress. That is why symptoms alone are not enough.
How it is diagnosed
The AUA guideline treats a total testosterone below 300 ng/dL as a reasonable cut-off for low testosterone, and it calls for two separate measurements taken in the early morning before the diagnosis is made (AUA).
How Dr. Wood approaches it
- Labs before a prescription. Testosterone is started only when labs and symptoms show it is clinically indicated.
- A choice of forms. Cream, pellets or injections, and HCG or other medicines that support the body’s own production.
- Regular checks. Labs every 8 to 12 weeks while the dose is set.
Weight and testosterone
Weight and hormones often travel together, so the same blood work can guide both. Many men pair men’s health care with medical weight management. The first consultation is complimentary — book a “Men’s Health” visit.