Low Testosterone Treatment Options in San Antonio

Testosterone is a hormone that supports sexual desire. It also helps with muscle and bone strength, red blood cell production, and energy in men. Most testosterone is produced in the testes, and levels naturally rise and fall throughout the day, peaking in the early morning.

Testosterone levels naturally go down with age. Sometimes the change is subtle, but it can also show up in ways that are hard to ignore.

A variety of low testosterone treatment options in San Antonio are available at our office locations throughout the city and surrounding areas.

Low testosterone, often called low T, is not diagnosed based on symptoms alone.

Low T is confirmed with a blood test called a total serum testosterone level. Most experts define low testosterone as a total testosterone level below 300 ng/dL.

Testosterone levels change throughout the day. They are highest in the morning. Doctors usually take blood between 7 a.m. and 10 a.m. They do the test twice on different days to be sure the results are correct.

Doctors will only diagnose Low T after both tests show low numbers and symptoms are present.

Symptoms of low testosterone may include:

• A drop in sexual desire
• Difficulty maintaining energy
• Reduced muscle strength
• Weight gain
• Irritability
• Depressed mood
• Changes in concentration.

Some men also experience erectile difficulties. But testosterone is rarely the sole cause of erectile dysfunction.

Low testosterone symptoms can look like other health problems. Stress, thyroid issues, and sleep apnea cause similar symptoms. Doctors need to run tests to find the real problem. Treating low T without testing first might hide other serious conditions.

Not all men with low testosterone need hormone therapy. Some lifestyle factors directly influence testosterone production and may improve symptoms:

• Weight management. This is one of the most effective tools. Extra body fat, especially around the belly, lowers testosterone. Losing weight often raises testosterone levels. This can boost energy and improve sexual health.
• Exercise. Strength training can have a positive effect. Building muscle mass supports healthier hormone balance and may help counter some of the physical changes caused by low T.
• Sleep quality. Men who regularly sleep fewer than 5 to 6 hours a night often show lower testosterone levels. Improving sleep habits often boosts energy and stabilizes mood.
• Alcohol reduction. Excessive drinking disrupts hormone production and negatively affects sexual function.
  Addressing underlying medical issues. Treating sleep apnea, thyroid disorders, or untreated diabetes can lead to a natural rebound in testosterone.

Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) brings testosterone back to normal levels and can help relieve symptoms. Doctors use it for men whose bodies don’t make enough testosterone.

There are several ways to administer this treatment.

Topical Gels and Solutions

Gels are a common treatment. Men rub them on their shoulders, arms, or stomach. The skin absorbs the gel throughout the day. This keeps testosterone levels steady. It should be used every day. Let it dry completely before touching others to avoid transferring the medication.

Transdermal Patches

Patches stick to the skin for 24 hours. They can be placed on the back, arms, thighs, or stomach. They replace the patch daily. Patches keep testosterone levels stable. Some men get skin irritation where the patch sits. Moving the patch to different spots can help.

Injectable Testosterone

Shots go into the muscle and last one to several weeks. Men like getting fewer doses. Some notice their hormone levels go up and down more than with gels or patches.

Intranasal Testosterone

This gel goes inside the nose several times a day. It absorbs quickly through the nose. Men don’t have to worry about skin contact when touching others. But using it multiple times daily can be inconvenient.

Implantable Pellets

A doctor places tiny pellets under the skin in the hip or buttock. The pellets release testosterone slowly for three to six months. This works well for men who don’t want daily medication. The downside is the dose can’t be changed once the pellets are in.

Doctors use blood tests to check testosterone levels, red blood cells, and PSA. These tests help the doctor adjust your dose. They also show if the treatment is working and catch side effects early. Side effects can include:

• Acne or oily skin
• Swelling of breast tissue
• Worsening of sleep apnea
• Fertility changes
• Added risk for blood clots

TRT helps many men feel better. They have more energy, better moods, stronger sex drive, and more physical strength. This happens when doctors prescribe and monitor treatment correctly. Working with a specialist keeps treatment safe and effective.

1. Is it safe to use over-the-counter testosterone boosters?

Most testosterone boosters sold in stores have not been proven to work. They may also have unsafe ingredients that aren’t listed on the label. These products aren’t regulated like prescription drugs.

2. Can testosterone therapy be combined with medications for erectile dysfunction?

Yes. Some men have both low testosterone and erectile dysfunction. They can use testosterone therapy with ED medications like sildenafil or tadalafil. This combination can help.

3. Do testosterone levels need to be measured while on treatment?

Yes. Periodic testing helps to make sure your dose is appropriate. It prevents overly high levels, and additional tests will monitor for side effects like increased red blood cell counts.