Diagnosing low testosterone
Testosterone should be checked in the morning and confirmed on a second test, because levels change during the day. Diagnosis needs both symptoms and clearly low levels. We also check LH, FSH and other labs to find the cause.
Common causes
- Obesity and type 2 diabetes
- Pituitary problems
- Testicular injury or genetic conditions
- Opioids, steroids and some other medicines
- Poor sleep and sleep apnea
Treatment
Options include testosterone gels, injections, pellets and an oral form. Testosterone lowers sperm production, so men who want children need a different approach. Losing weight can raise testosterone in men with obesity. Treatment requires regular checks of blood counts, PSA and symptoms.