Living with Diabetes

Low testosterone is a common condition that often goes undiagnosed because its symptoms are similar to other conditions. If you have type 2 diabetes, you are twice as likely to suffer from low testosterone as a man without diabetes.

The symptoms of low testosterone can include diminished interest in sex, erectile dysfunction (ED), reduced lean body mass, depressed mood and lack of energy. If you are experiencing diminished interest in sex, ED or multiple symptoms together such as lack of desire to have sex and lack of energy you should talk to your doctor.

Low testosterone can be easily identified and treated. As a starting point, take the Androgen Deficiency in the Aging Male (ADAM) questionnaire below. This may be helpful in assessing your likelihood of having low testosterone.

Your physician can check your testosterone levels with a simple blood test. If you do have low testosterone it can be easily treated by your physician. There are several treatment options available such as gels, patches or injections that increase the amount of testosterone in your body. You can also ask about a referral to visit an endocrinologist or urologist who specializes in treating conditions like low testosterone.

More Information

You may be interested in our book, Sex and Diabetes: For Him and For Her.