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Distinguishing Low Testosterone from Erectile Dysfunction

Writer's picture: Heather BurdoHeather Burdo

Many men, especially as they age, are distressed to experience sexual health issues like low libido, poor erections, and problems performing sexually. Underlying causes can include declining testosterone levels or erectile dysfunction (ED). Though often confused or conflated, low testosterone and ED are distinct conditions requiring differentiated understanding and management. A Mandeville, LA physician who specializes in low testosterone and ED treatment can help figure out what may be the most ideal treatment option for you.


What Does “Low T” Mean?

Low T or low testosterone refers to a testosterone deficiency state where the sex hormone testosterone circulates at lower than normal levels in a man’s body. Testosterone is critical in male sexual development and functions. As the primary male sex hormone, testosterone not only controls sex drive (libido) but also impacts erections, production of sperm, distribution of body fat, muscle mass and strength, bone density, red blood cell production, and mood and thinking ability.


Testosterone production peaks in adolescence and early adulthood, declining gradually with advancing age. But symptomatic hormone deficiency indicates levels have dropped below a functional threshold. This progresses beyond age-related decrease into a pathologic state of testosterone deficiency, with levels insufficient to maintain key bodily processes and male vigor.


Diagnosing Low Testosterone

Because testosterone influences wide-ranging physiological effects, low levels present varying signs and symptoms affecting sexual, physical, and mental health. Recognizing multiple possible manifestations, accurate diagnosis of low T relies on a blood test measuring total testosterone and free testosterone levels. Based on lab reference ranges, results below 300 ng/dL generally confirm clinically low circulating testosterone.

If testing and clinical evaluation indicate testosterone deficiency, treating the underlying cause of diminished production often resolves symptoms. Testosterone replacement therapy can also effectively alleviate shortfalls from low T through direct hormone supplementation.


Low Testosterone and Erectile Dysfunction Differences

Erectile dysfunction specifically describes chronic difficulty getting or sustaining an erection satisfactory for sexual function. Beyond normal occasional erectile troubles, ED involves persistent inability to perform sexually due to impaired arousal signals and blood flow dynamics in the penis. ED is quite prevalent, reportedly affecting over 30 million men in America alone.


Low testosterone can potentially contribute to erectile dysfunction by directly reducing physiological sexual response. But many other vascular, neurological, psychological, and hormonal factors may also impair erections. So while low T causes relative decline in libido and sexual capacity, ED more narrowly prevents functional erections for intercourse despite sex drive.


Distinct diagnostic testing assesses ED causes like diabetes, hypertension, atherosclerosis, obesity, depression or anxiety, medication side effects, low T, and more. Recognizing and addressing the specific etiologic contributor allows tailored ED treatment ranging from lifestyle changes and sexual aids to medications, testosterone therapy, penile implants, or vascular surgery when warranted.


Feel Confident Again With Hormone Therapy for Men in LA

Low T indicates overall deficiency in this vital hormone causing various symptomatic effects. ED more discretely describes a problem achieving erections impairing sexual capacity, whether or not testosterone levels are optimal.


Getting to the root cause of sexual issues through precise testing and evaluation enables locating appropriate solutions tailored to the particular deficiency state, be it hormonal, vascular anatomical, psychological, or other origin underlying the sexual difficulty. Book your appointment conveniently online or contact us regarding any questions.

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Laurie Stumpf, FNP-C LLC

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