Low Testosterone

Careful testing for low testosterone (low T), and treatment when it is truly needed and safe for you.

What low testosterone is

Testosterone helps maintain sex drive, energy, muscle, bone and red blood cells. Levels drop slowly with age, but true low testosterone (hypogonadism) means both a low blood level and symptoms. Common symptoms include low sex drive, erectile problems, fatigue, low mood and loss of muscle.

Getting the diagnosis right

Testosterone should be measured in the morning, when it is highest, and confirmed with a second test. Dr. Neal Patel may also check related hormones and a blood count to look for a cause and to plan safe treatment. Many symptoms have other causes, such as poor sleep, sleep apnea, weight or medications, so these are reviewed too.

Treatment options

When low T is confirmed, options can include lifestyle changes, treating an underlying cause, and testosterone therapy as gels, injections or long-acting pellets. Men who may want children in the future need a different approach, because testosterone therapy can lower sperm production; ask about this before starting.

Monitoring and safety

Men on testosterone therapy need regular follow-up, including testosterone levels, a blood count and, for men who are screened for prostate cancer, PSA. Treatment is adjusted to keep levels in a normal range.

Related care

Low T often overlaps with erectile dysfunction. See all men's health services.

Your next step

Call 678-344-8900 to book with Dr. Neal Patel in Johns Creek or Cumming.

Where Dr. Neal Patel sees patients

Dr. Neal Patel sees patients from across metro Atlanta at two Advanced Urology offices:

His Advanced Urology team also sees patients in Decatur and Braselton. Call 678-344-8900 to book. Same-day and next-day appointments are often available.

Preparing for your visit with Dr. Neal Patel

Bring a list of your current medications and supplements, any prior urine, blood or PSA results, and the reports (or discs) from recent imaging. If you can, arrive with a comfortably full bladder, because a urine sample and a bladder scan are often part of the first visit. Write down your main questions so nothing is missed. A family member is welcome to join you. If you prefer Spanish or Korean, let the office know when you book so language support is ready.

Your chart is reviewed before you arrive, and insurance requirements for likely imaging or procedures are checked up front so approvals can move sooner. Before you leave, your orders, prescriptions and follow-up plan are reviewed with you, and you receive education materials tailored to your condition.

At the end of the visit you will receive a written summary in your preferred language that explains what was found, what was ordered and what happens next. Your primary care physician or referring doctor receives a clear update letter with findings, plan and next steps, so everyone caring for you stays informed. Dr. Neal Patel sees patients at the Johns Creek and Cumming offices; call 678-344-8900.

Reviewed by Dr. Neal Patel, MD, board-certified urologist. This page is general information and not a substitute for medical advice.

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