Treatment
Once you’ve been diagnosed with low testosterone, your doctor will discuss treatment options. The most common treatment is testosterone replacement therapy (TRT).
TRT can be administered in different ways. One way is to use testosterone patches that are meant to be worn daily and applied to different parts of the body, explains the Cleveland Clinic. Another option is testosterone gel which is applied to clean, dry skin. Testosterone can also be administered by injections.
Are there any side effects?
As with most treatments, you should be aware of some possible side effects. For starters, it can cause oily skin or, in some cases, acne. Mild fluid retention in the ankles, sleep apnea and prostate stimulation are also possible side effects.
The Cleveland Clinic also notes that skin irritation is possible, especially in patients who receive the topical testosterone gel. In some cases, a decrease in the size of the testicles and breast enlargement or tenderness are also possible. That’s why it’s important to attend regular follow-up appointments with your doctor.
Can low testosterone levels be prevented?
Unfortunately, there is « no known way to prevent low testosterone caused by genetic conditions or damage to the testicles or pituitary gland, » says the Cleveland Clinic. That said, if your low levels are caused by other factors such as obesity or alcohol abuse, you may be able to prevent it by making healthier lifestyle choices.
The source claims that weight management, regular exercise, healthy eating, and avoiding excessive alcohol consumption can help maintain normal testosterone levels. If you think you might be at risk for low testosterone, talk to your doctor about what you can do to help prevent it.
Clarisse Vanner
Clarissa is ActiveBeat’s junior editor. She longs to live a healthy life by staying active and eating foods that nourish her body, but she’s not afraid to indulge herself with a little chocolate here and there! Clarissa loves cooking, being outdoors and spending time with her dog. In her free time, you’ll find her relaxing in her hammock or curled up on the sofa reading a book.
