Tired all the time? Gym progress stalled? Sex drive gone quiet? Low testosterone might be the reason. It also might not be. Here’s how it’s actually diagnosed.
The symptoms
The American Urological Association lists lower sex drive, erectile dysfunction, loss of energy, fatigue, and reduced muscle mass or bone density.
The test
One low number isn’t enough. The AUA says diagnosis takes two total testosterone tests, drawn in the early morning on separate days, with results below about 300 ng/dL. And the numbers have to come with symptoms. Low labs alone, or symptoms alone, don’t make the diagnosis.
Why it matters
Timing and repetition are the point. Two early-morning tests on different days keep one off reading from putting you on treatment you don’t need.
The look-alikes
Poor sleep, heavy drinking, overtraining and dehydration can all leave you exhausted. They’re worth ruling out, and some are easy fixes.
Lifestyle comes first, either way
The AUA recommends that every man with low testosterone get counseling on lifestyle changes, and that men on therapy have their levels rechecked every 6 to 12 months.
Getting tested in Fresno
We draw hormone labs right in our north Fresno suite, and our provider reviews the results with you against the AUA criteria before anything is prescribed. See testosterone testing and TRT at I Vie. If the real issue is that you’re run down, our men’s health menu covers hydration, B12 and recovery drips.
