Testosterone and prostate cancer

September 26, 2011 By

DEAR DR. GOTT: Some doctors and urologists say that high testosterone levels contribute to prostate cancer and some say that low testosterone is the culprit. What do you think about this? Is there conflicting research or no research?

I was diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2006 and at that time had a Gleason score of eight. I was treated with brachytherapy, external radiation and Lupron. Both my PSA and testosterone levels became negligible. I’ve been off the Lupron for about 18 months and my testosterone is back up to about 500 and my PSA is just now beginning to rise to 0.2. I understand that this rise in the PSA could be either due to the prostate cancer returning or just due to the normal regrowth of the prostate after being shrunk by the Lupron and low testosterone. [Read more...]

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Is male menopause for real?

September 10, 2010 By

DEAR DR. GOTT: I am writing in the hope you will write about the effects of male menopause. I am 68 years old, and from time to time, my face will flush. Is this a symptom of male menopause?

Anything you can tell me will be of great benefit. I have learned much from your column over the years, and I truly thank you for all your help in medical matters.

DEAR READER: Some people — both men and women — can pass through menopause easily and without disruption to their daily lives. For others, it’s a difficult process that varies in intensity from person to person. Furthermore, the reality of menopause varies extensively between men and women.
[Read more...]

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Treating hypogonadism

March 5, 2010 By

DEAR DR. GOTT: My husband has been fatigued for several months. He’s a little heavier than his ordinary weight and thought that was the cause, but when he went to his doctor, he was found through follow-up blood work to have a low testosterone level. What on earth is that all about? We’re concerned.

DEAR READER: Testosterone is a naturally occurring hormone that stimulates the growth of male characteristics. Testosterone levels normally decrease with age; therefore, it is somewhat difficult to determine a normal level. Generally speaking, the range of total testosterone is 300 to 1,000 mg/dL, with some variation noted between laboratories. [Read more...]

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Daily Column

January 3, 2009 By

DEAR DR. GOTT:
I’m an older gentleman with a question. Can you tell me about testosterone?

DEAR READER:
The male body produces a hormone known as testosterone. This hormone helps maintain bone density, muscle mass and strength, sex drive, the production of red blood cells, and sperm. Levels generally peak during adolescence and early adulthood. Then at the age of 40 or so, production is lessened. As a general rule, the decline is gradual.

A higher than normal testosterone level has been linked with an increased risk of prostate cancer or an enlarged prostate. Lower than normal levels have been associated with memory loss, mood changes, erectile dysfunction, and depression.

Synthetic testosterone is available by prescription. While studies reveal the supplemental form can bring [Read more...]

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Daily Column

November 24, 2008 By

DEAR DR. GOTT:
I am a 57-year-old male 170 pounds, 5’ 11” tall. I drink very little and don’t smoke. I have also been married for 35 years.

About a year ago I noticed a downward spiral in my energy level and ability to exercise. I also began having erection problems.

I had a complete physical done. My cholesterol was 144, blood pressure was 116/60, heart rate was 60 beats per minute and my fasting blood sugar was 90. My doctor also ordered a testosterone level which was low at 249. I was then put on Androgel 7.5 mg daily. I have been using it for six months and my testosterone level is now 246. I have not had any change in my symptoms at all.

Is there anywhere to go from here? Would testosterone injections be better?

DEAR READER:
So-called normal testosterone levels range from 300-1000. Your level of 246 is just below normal. [Read more...]

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