Welcome to Men’s Total Health

If you’ve been feeling constantly tired, experiencing a drop in your sex drive, or just not feeling like yourself lately, you’re in the right place. Today, we’re diving deep into a condition that affects millions of men but often goes undiagnosed and untreated.

What is Low Testosterone Called? Understanding Hypogonadism

Low testosterone, medically known as hypogonadism or testosterone deficiency syndrome, is a clinical condition characterized by inadequate production of testosterone, the primary male sex hormone. Testosterone plays a crucial role in numerous bodily functions beyond just sexual health, including muscle mass maintenance, bone density, fat distribution, red blood cell production, and overall energy levels.

When testosterone levels fall below the normal range (typically 300-1,000 ng/dL for adult men), the condition is clinically defined as hypogonadism. This condition can be primary (originating from problems in the testicles) or secondary (stemming from issues in the hypothalamus or pituitary gland).

Recognizing the Signs: Common Symptoms of Low Testosterone

Low testosterone doesn’t announce itself with a single, obvious symptom. Instead, it often manifests as a constellation of subtle changes that can significantly impact your quality of life. Here’s what to watch for:

Physical Symptoms

• Persistent fatigue and low energy levels
• Decreased muscle mass despite regular exercise
• Increased body fat, particularly around the midsection
• Reduced strength and endurance
• Hair loss beyond normal male pattern baldness
• Development of gynecomastia (enlarged breast tissue)

Sexual Symptoms

• Reduced libido or sex drive
• Erectile dysfunction
• Decreased semen volume
• Infertility issues

Cognitive and Emotional Symptoms

• Difficulty concentrating or “brain fog”
• Memory problems
• Mood disturbances including irritability and depression
• Decreased motivation and self-confidence
• Sleep disturbances including insomnia

These symptoms can develop gradually over months or even years, making them easy to attribute to “just getting older” rather than recognizing them as signs of a treatable medical condition.

The Biology Behind the Decline: Causes of Low Testosterone

Testosterone production naturally declines with age—typically about 1% per year after age 30—but several factors can accelerate this decline or cause abnormally low levels:

Age-Related Factors

• Natural aging process (andropause)
• Changes in testicular function over time

Medical Conditions

• Obesity and metabolic syndrome
• Type 2 diabetes
• Chronic liver or kidney disease
• HIV/AIDS
• Pituitary disorders
• Genetic conditions like Klinefelter syndrome
• Hemochromatosis (iron overload)
• Previous testicular trauma or infection

Lifestyle Factors

• Chronic stress
• Poor sleep habits
• Excessive alcohol consumption
• Drug use (particularly opioids and anabolic steroids)
• Severe caloric restriction
• Lack of physical activity

Medications and Treatments

• Certain pain medications, especially long-term opioid use
• Some antidepressants
• Chemotherapy or radiation treatment
• Corticosteroids

Diagnosing Low Testosterone: Beyond Just Symptoms

If you’re experiencing symptoms consistent with low testosterone, proper diagnosis is essential. At Men’s Total Health, we follow a comprehensive diagnostic approach:

Blood Testing

The cornerstone of diagnosis is blood testing to measure testosterone levels. These tests should be performed in the morning when testosterone levels are naturally highest, usually between 7 and 10 AM. Multiple tests are often required to confirm the diagnosis, as testosterone levels can fluctuate.

Physical Examination

A thorough physical exam helps identify signs of low testosterone and rule out other potential causes of your symptoms.

Medical History Review

Your complete medical history, including medications, previous illnesses, and family history, provides crucial context for interpreting your symptoms and test results.

Additional Testing

Depending on your specific situation, we may recommend:

• Luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) tests to determine if the cause is primary or secondary
• Prolactin level testing
• Thyroid function tests
• Complete blood count
• Metabolic panel
• Bone density scan if osteoporosis is suspected

Modern Treatment Options: Restoring Your Vitality

Once low testosterone is diagnosed, several effective treatment options are available. The right approach depends on the cause, severity, and your personal health goals.

Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT)

The most direct and effective treatment for low testosterone is testosterone replacement therapy. At Men’s Total Health, we offer several administration methods:

• Injectable testosterone: Provides consistent levels with treatments every 1-2 weeks
• Topical gels and creams: Applied daily for steady hormone delivery
• Testosterone patches: Worn on the skin for continuous release
• Pellet implants: Inserted under the skin, providing testosterone for 3-6 months

Lifestyle Modifications

Supporting treatments include:

• Weight management programs
• Strength training and exercise regimens
• Nutritional counseling
• Sleep optimization strategies
• Stress reduction techniques

Addressing Underlying Causes

When low testosterone stems from another medical condition, treating that condition may help restore normal hormone production:

• Managing diabetes
• Treating sleep apnea
• Addressing pituitary disorders
• Modifying medications that may affect testosterone

The Men’s Total Health Approach: Comprehensive Care for Optimal Results

At Men’s Total Health in Metairie, we understand that low testosterone affects every aspect of your life. That’s why we’ve developed a comprehensive approach that goes beyond simply prescribing testosterone.

Our testosterone optimization protocol will restore your energy, eliminate fatigue, and significantly improve your quality of life. It works—we’ve successfully helped countless men regain their vitality through our specialized approach:

1. Thorough Initial Assessment: We begin with comprehensive testing and evaluation to understand your unique hormonal profile.
2. Personalized Treatment Plan: Based on your test results, symptoms, and health goals, we create an individualized treatment protocol.
3. Ongoing Monitoring: Regular follow-up appointments and testing ensure your treatment is working optimally and safely.
4. Holistic Support: We address all factors affecting your hormonal health, including nutrition, exercise, sleep, and stress management.
5. Expert Medical Supervision: Our specialized providers have extensive experience in men’s hormonal health and stay current with the latest advances in treatment.

Beyond Treatment: Living Well with Optimized Testosterone

Successful management of low testosterone extends beyond medical treatment. Here are strategies to maximize your results:

• Regular Exercise: Particularly strength training and high-intensity interval training
• Optimal Nutrition: Focus on lean proteins, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates
• Stress Management: Incorporate meditation, mindfulness, or other stress-reduction techniques
• Quality Sleep: Prioritize 7-9 hours of uninterrupted sleep nightly
• Limit Alcohol: Reduce consumption to moderate levels or less
• Maintain a Healthy Weight: Fat tissue converts testosterone to estrogen

Take Action: Don’t Let Low Testosterone Define Your Life

Low testosterone—or hypogonadism—is not just an inevitable part of aging. It’s a treatable medical condition that shouldn’t prevent you from living your best life. At Men’s Total Health, we’ve helped thousands of men in the New Orleans area reclaim their energy, vitality, and confidence through our specialized testosterone therapy programs.

If you’re experiencing symptoms of low testosterone, don’t wait for them to worsen. Schedule a consultation with our expert team today. Our state-of-the-art facility in Metairie offers minimal wait times, discreet and comfortable surroundings, and the specialized care you deserve.

Remember, feeling tired, unmotivated, and sexually diminished isn’t something you have to accept. With proper diagnosis and treatment, you can feel like yourself again. Learn more about our comprehensive approach to men’s hormonal health and take the first step toward restoration.