Low Testosterone

Testosterone plays a crucial role in sexual health and development. If you’re struggling with signs of low testosterone, like fatigue or erectile dysfunction, Bridge City Family Medical Clinic in Portland, Oregon, offers Biote® pellets and other evidence-based treatments to address hormone imbalances. Call or schedule an appointment online today to learn more.

What is low testosterone?

Low testosterone occurs when your testicles no longer produce adequate levels of the hormone testosterone. While both sexes produce this essential hormone, testosterone plays a pivotal role in male development. It helps regulate libido, fat distribution, bone growth, muscle mass, and many other traditionally male characteristics.

Testosterone levels begin declining by about 1% each year after age 30. While this gradual decrease is a natural part of the aging process, some men may experience significantly low levels, leading to a condition called low testosterone, or "low T."

I think I have low testosterone. What are the signs?

Signs of low testosterone may be subtle at first, but they’re more noticeable as hormone levels decline. Low testosterone symptoms include:

• Erectile dysfunction (ED)
• Low libido
• Increased abdominal fat
• Lower muscle mass
• Reduced facial and body hair
• Weakened bones
• Depression
• Increased breast tissue
• Poor concentration
• Irritability
• Fatigue

If you experience any of the above symptoms, a proper evaluation and diagnosis is essential. The sooner you seek the appropriate care, the sooner you can find relief.

What is the root cause of low testosterone?

There is no single cause of low testosterone. Instead, a range of factors can cause testosterone levels to decline, including:

• Type 2 diabetes
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Excess weight
• Hypertension (high blood pressure)
• High cholesterol
• Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
• Kidney disease
• Anxiety and depression

Chronic stress, excess alcohol consumption, and substance abuse can also affect testosterone production.

How do doctors diagnose low testosterone?

A comprehensive medical history review and physical exam is the first step in diagnosing low testosterone. If your provider suspects you have a hormone imbalance, they can order several blood tests, including total testosterone, luteinizing hormone (LH), and prolactin blood tests. Bridge City Family Medical Clinic has onsite labs for your convenience and comfort.

I have low testosterone. What are the treatment options?

Hormone replacement therapy is the most effective treatment for low testosterone. Bridge City Family Medical Clinic uses Biote hormones to replace lost testosterone with customizable pellets to address your specific imbalance. Each pellet is about the size of a grain of rice. 

Your provider inserts the pellet into your upper hip. Over the next six months, the pellet releases the exact hormone quantities you need to reduce symptoms with minimal side effects.

Call Bridge City Family Medical Clinic today or schedule an appointment online to receive safe, effective treatment for low testosterone.