Testosterone naturally begins to decline in men once they reach age 30. In some cases, however, men experience a testosterone deficiency that is not due to the aging process. Injury, cancer, pituitary gland dysfunction, medication, kidney failure, stress and alcoholism are all conditions that can cause testosterone deficiencies. If you have a testosterone deficiency, ask your doctor about options that might be appropriate for you.
Step 1
Ask your doctor if hormone replacement medication is an option for you. Injection, patch, gel and gum as well as oral pills can deliver testosterone effectively. Your doctor can decide what type of medication is best for you.
Step 2
Prevent osteoporosis, which can occur with low testosterone levels. Make sure to get regular exercise and sufficient amounts of calcium and vitamin D, which all promote bone strength. Men should take 1,000 mg of calcium daily if under age 50 and 1,200 mg daily if over age 50. In addition, all men should have between 200 and 600 international units of vitamin D each day, according to MayoClinic.com.
Step 3
Reduce stress. In some cases, men will experience high levels of stress and anxiety related to their testosterone deficiency. If you are experiencing this, talk with your doctor about medication and counseling options that are available to you.
Step 4
Talk with your spouse or significant other if you are having difficulty with erectile dysfunction. In many cases, insufficient levels of testosterone can cause poor erections and a drop in sex drive. Discussing this honestly and openly with your doctor may also be a helpful option.
Step 5
Consider reproduction options. Since low levels of testosterone can affect sperm production, having children may be a concern for you. Ask your doctor about reproductive technology that might be appropriate for you.
Tips and Warnings
- Exercise with a friend to keep you accountable.
- Talk with your doctor before beginning an exercise program. Discuss the use of supplements with your doctor prior to taking them.
