Williamsburg is a beautiful historic city with excellent opportunities for men looking to optimize their health and wellness. As men age, testosterone levels naturally decline, leading to symptoms like low energy, reduced muscle mass, weight gain, poor concentration, low libido, and erectile dysfunction.
Testosterone levels peak during adolescence and early adulthood. After age 30, testosterone decreases by about 1% per year. There are several reasons testosterone declines:
Low testosterone, or hypogonadism, has significant effects on men's health. The good news is treatment is available.
How do you know if your testosterone is low? Symptoms may develop gradually over years and can include:
- Depression, sadness, or irritability - Lack of motivation and low self-esteem - Poor concentration and "brain fog" - Increased aggression or angry outbursts
- Decreased libido - Loss of body and facial hair - Hot flashes - Loss of bone density (osteoporosis) leading to increased fracture risk
If you experience a combination of these symptoms, talk to your doctor about getting a simple blood test to check your testosterone level.
Measuring testosterone levels requires a simple blood test. It should be done in the morning when levels are highest.
Free testosterone is the most important value, as this is the testosterone available for the body to use. Total testosterone provides additional context.
Testosterone levels do fluctuate and can be temporarily lower if you are sick or extremely stressed. Repeating the test may be needed to confirm a low value.
Once low testosterone is diagnosed, further evaluation helps identify any underlying cause. Additional hormone tests, imaging, or genetic testing may be appropriate based on your symptoms and risk factors.
If low testosterone is impacting quality of life, testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) can help restore hormone levels. When properly administered, TRT offers a wide range of benefits:
In addition, men with type 2 diabetes show improved blood sugar control on TRT. Cardiovascular health, inflammation and metabolic parameters also improve.
TRT allows you to regain the vitality you enjoyed when testosterone levels were higher. You look better, feel better, and function better.
TRT can powerfully enhance health and quality of life if properly administered under a doctor's care. It is appropriate for otherwise healthy men over 30 with low testosterone levels and associated symptoms.
TRT is not a short term solution - commitment to treatment is needed to enjoy the full benefits over months and years. It does require self-administered injections in most cases.
Testosterone therapy carries some risks, especially for men with certain underlying health conditions. Your doctor will review your full health history and risk factors before prescribing.
Bloodwork will be needed periodically to monitor your response and make any necessary dose adjustments. Follow up visits ensure you reach treatment goals safely.
If TRT is appropriate for you, starting treatment at our Williamsburg men’s health clinic is straightforward:
There are several testosterone formulations available in pills, pellets, patches and gels. But injections tend to be preferable for most men.
Ongoing bloodwork, typically every 3 months, helps ensure healthy testosterone levels:
Dose adjustments may be needed over the first 6 months to reach optimal testosterone range. At that point, annual bloodwork is sufficient in most men.
The Williamsburg area offers wonderful amenities, activities and establishments to support your TRT journey:
- Local Labs for convenient testosterone and blood testing - Derick Center Gym - state of the art strength training and conditioning equipment - Serenity Medspa - relaxation and rejuvenation services like massage, cryotherapy, infrared sauna
- Colonial Williamsburg - step back in time to the birth of America - Williamsburg Winery - scenic vineyard with wine tastings and events - Quarterpath Recreation Center - pools, basketball courts, baseball diamonds, golf course - Legacy Hall - upscale dining, cocktails, and entertainment
Taking advantage of community offerings, adopting healthy lifestyle habits, managing stress levels, and connecting with others also helps you get the most from TRT.
The physicians at Balance Health Clinic Men's Health Clinic specialize in diagnosing and treating low testosterone and related health conditions:
If you're a man over 30 suffering from low energy, low libido, weight gain or other hypogonadism symptoms, contact Balance Health Clinic today to schedule a consultation. Our goal is helping you restore vibrancy and reclaim your health.
