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Testosterone for ED

Erectile dysfunction can be caused by a variety of medical and psychological conditions. One of the conditions that may cause erectile dysfunction is low testosterone. As the body ages, hormone levels drop off and some men experience low levels of testosterone. Testosterone replacement therapy may help sexual function for men experiencing ED.

  1. Diagnosing Low Testosterone

    • The level of testosterone can be measured with a blood test to determine if low testosterone may be the cause of erectile dysfunction. A normal level of testosterone will be between 70 and 100 percent. Men suffering from low testosterone will fall below 50 percent.

      The symptoms associated with low testosterone can be related to medical conditions such as diabetes and lifestyle choices such as smoking and drinking alcohol. These conditions can cause erectile dysfunction as well. Making changes to lifestyle can increase testosterone and help ED at the same time.

    Testosterone Replacement Therapy

    • Low testosterone is not a common cause of erectile dysfunction, but for those with a low testosterone level, the treatment can be helpful. Having decreased levels of testosterone can cause a variety of symptoms along with erectile dysfunction. Mood and the sense of well being will be impacted by the decreased hormone.

      Testosterone is administered by injection, patches placed on the skin or gels massaged into the body. Side effects will vary depending on the way that the hormone is administered. Testosterone patches may cause irritation to the skin. When testosterone is injected, it can be difficult to manage the levels of testosterone in the bloodstream. The highest level of the hormone in the blood will occur immediately after injection.

      Men who have prostate cancer should not use testosterone replacement therapy. Hormone replacement therapy will not cause cancer, but it could cause faster growth of cancer that is already present.

    Side Effects

    • Possible side effects of testosterone therapy should be considered before therapy begins. Sleep apnea, acne, breast enlargement, decreased urination and a decrease in the size of the testicles are all side effects of testosterone replacement therapy. These side effects are not common, but a doctor should monitor the side effects and symptoms.

    Benefits

    • Patients using testosterone replacement therapy for erectile dysfunction will experience other benefits as well. An improved mood, greater muscle gain, energy, and increased sex drive are all benefits that can occur with testosterone therapy.

      Testosterone replacement can be the answer for a small group of men suffering from erectile dysfunction. It is important to determine the cause of the dysfunction before any treatment plan begins.

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