Men’s Health Month: Balancing testosterone levels for a healthier lifestyle

June is Men’s Health Month, a time to shine a spotlight on the unique health challenges men face and the importance of proactive care. Among these challenges, low testosterone levels stand out as a significant concern that affects many men but is often misunderstood.

Dr. John Tillett, a urologist with AdventHealth Medical Group Urology at Denver, shares valuable insights into the causes, symptoms, misconceptions, and treatment options for low testosterone.

Testosterone is a critical hormone that helps men maintain an optimal quality of life. It influences a wide array of physical and emotional aspects, from energy levels to libido, muscle mass, and mood. When testosterone levels drop, it can have a major impact on everyday life.

Low testosterone can present through a variety of symptoms, as men with lower testosterone levels may experience:

• Lower energy levels or fatigue
• Sexual problems
• Loss of focus or memory issues
• Weight gain or difficulty losing weight
• Poor sleep quality
• Irritability or reduced mood
• Weakness and loss of bone mineral density
• Hot flashes or trouble with temperature regulation

Recognizing these symptoms is the first step toward seeking help and improving quality of life.

Low testosterone is often surrounded by myths that can deter men from seeking treatment. According to Dr. Tillett, some of the most common misconceptions include:

• Testosterone therapy causes prostate cancer (it doesn’t).
• Testosterone therapy can lead to strokes or heart attacks (it doesn’t).
• Testosterone therapy is too expensive (it isn’t).
• Over-the-counter supplements can effectively raise testosterone levels (not really).
• Testosterone therapy will completely fix erectile dysfunction (it may help, but not always).

Understanding these truths can empower men to make informed decisions about their health.

For those concerned about their testosterone levels, there are both natural and medical ways to address the issue. Men can raise their testosterone levels naturally by:

• Engaging in physical activity, especially strength training or HIIT workouts
• Eating a balanced, heart-healthy diet
• Getting adequate sleep
• Managing stress effectively
• Limiting excessive alcohol consumption

Maintaining normal testosterone levels comes with numerous advantages. These include improved libido, energy, mood, sleep, concentration, strength, and lean muscle mass, all of which contribute to a vibrant, active lifestyle.

While raising testosterone levels is beneficial, it’s important to avoid overcorrection. Risks of high testosterone levels include:

• Infertility
• Increased blood pressure
• Acne
• Worsening of sleep apnea
• Heart disease and liver dysfunction (at very high levels)

If you suspect you may have low testosterone, Dr. Tillett urges you to take the first step and get tested. A simple blood test can provide clarity and open the door to treatment options that could transform your life.

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John Tillett, MD, FACS, is certified by the American Board of Urology and is a fellow of the American College of Surgeons. As a former U.S. Navy Medical Corps Lieutenant Commander, he practiced urology in the military and was recognized by the Deputy Surgeon General of the U.S. Navy as being among the top five urology providers in the Navy ranked for satisfaction by outpatient clinic patients. Dr. Tillett’s clinical areas of expertise include the management of chronic scrotal/testicular pain disorders, urinary stone disease, microsurgery, men’s health, bladder cancer, and urologic disorders in patients with spinal cord injury and other neurologic diseases. He specializes in performing the following surgical procedures microscopic spermatic cord denervation, ureteroscopic kidney stone surgery, transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP), testosterone pellet implantation, scrotal surgery, urethroplasty, and trans urethral resection of bladder tumor (TURBT). Dr. Tillett works with his patients to improve their quality of life, especially with problems that are personal and can be difficult to talk about.

Dr. Tillett received his medical doctorate from Emory University School of Medicine, where he earned the Joseph B. Whitehead Surgery Scholarship. He graduated magna cum laude with his Bachelor of Science from Vanderbilt University. Dr. Tillett completed his residency and served as Chief Resident at Emory, where he was recognized with the Department of Urology Award for Outstanding Academic Achievement and the prestigious Resident Achievement Award by the Society of Laparoendoscopic Surgeons. He is involved with the American Urological Association and Rocky Mountain Urologic Society.

Dr. Tillett makes sure to have time for family. He enjoys a good game of tennis, participating in fitness activities, and traveling.

Click here to make an appointment with Dr. Tillett.