Male Hypogonadism Q & A
What is male hypogonadism?
Male hypogonadism is a condition that affects your body’s production of testosterone and/or sperm. This condition can develop in the womb, during childhood, or when you’re an adult.
When male hypogonadism develops as an adult, its symptoms can include:
- Decreased libido
- Decreased energy
- Decreased muscle mass
- Decreased hair growth
- Osteoporosis
- Infertility
- Erectile dysfunction
- Depression
- Problems with concentration
Cleary, male hypogonadism can affect your physical and mental well-being. Fortunately, it’s a treatable condition. To start with treatment that reverses your symptoms and helps you feel your best, you first need to get your condition diagnosed.
How is male hypogonadism diagnosed?
The team at North Georgia Endocrinology has extensive experience in diagnosing this condition. They start the process with a physical exam. This allows them to look for physical signs of hypogonadism. It also presents an opportunity for you to discuss any symptoms you’ve noticed, like fatigue, decreased libido, or depression.
Next, your North Georgia Endocrinology provider performs tests to ensure you get an accurate diagnosis. They may use a variety of diagnostic tools, including:
- Hormone tests
- Pituitary imaging
- Semen analysis
- Testicular biopsy
Once they diagnose your hypogonadism, they work with you to find a treatment that balances your hormone levels and minimizes your symptoms.
How is male hypogonadism treated?
In most cases, with testosterone replacement, male hypogonadism can be managed effectively. You might take this supplemental testosterone in the form of a patch, pill, injection, implantable pellet, or gel.
Your North Georgia Endocrinology provider continually works with you to ensure you’re taking the right amount of testosterone to balance your body without introducing excess amounts into your system. They monitor you to ensure you feel your best and aren’t experiencing any side effects.
Once you and your North Georgia Endocrinology provider determine the right amount of testosterone to replace what your body isn’t naturally producing due to male hypogonadism, you can continually take this amount to keep your body balanced. With it, you should experience significantly fewer symptoms or maybe even no symptoms at all.
For more information about male hypogonadism and your treatment options, call North Georgia Endocrinology or book an appointment online today.