Testosterone Levels and ED Treatment: Your Questions Answered - Urology

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Understanding testosterone levels and erectile dysfunction (ED) treatment can be quite complex, but I’ll do my best to clarify your concerns based on the information you've provided.

Firstly, regarding your testosterone levels: you mentioned that your initial testosterone level was 6.44 ng/mL and your recent level is 4.77 ng/mL, with a reference range of 1.66-8.77 ng/mL. Both of these values fall within the normal range, which suggests that your testosterone levels are not critically low. However, the decrease in your testosterone level from the first test to the second could be concerning, especially if you are experiencing symptoms of low testosterone, such as erectile dysfunction, fatigue, or decreased libido. It’s important to discuss these fluctuations with your healthcare provider, as they may want to monitor your levels more closely or investigate further to determine the underlying cause of the decrease.

As for your blood sugar levels, you mentioned that your fasting blood sugar was 84 mg/dL, but the test was conducted in the evening after eating. Blood sugar levels can fluctuate throughout the day, and postprandial (after eating) blood sugar levels are typically higher than fasting levels. Therefore, it’s essential to interpret your blood sugar results in the context of when the test was taken. If you have concerns about diabetes or blood sugar regulation, it may be beneficial to have a fasting blood glucose test done in the morning after an overnight fast for a more accurate assessment.

Regarding your current treatment with Cialis (tadalafil), it’s good to hear that you are experiencing normal erections with the adjusted dosage of taking it every other day. Cialis is a phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitor that helps increase blood flow to the penis, facilitating an erection when sexually stimulated. The duration of treatment can vary significantly from person to person, depending on the underlying cause of ED. If your ED is primarily psychological, it may improve more quickly with therapy or counseling. If it’s due to physiological factors, such as hormonal imbalances or vascular issues, it may take longer to address those underlying issues.

In terms of how long you might need to continue the medication, this is something that should be discussed with your healthcare provider. They will consider your response to the medication, any side effects you may experience, and your overall health status. It’s also worth noting that while medications like Cialis can be effective, they are often part of a broader treatment plan that may include lifestyle changes, psychological support, or other medical interventions.

Lastly, regarding the cost of the medication, it can indeed be expensive, and it’s understandable to want to find a more sustainable solution. Discussing your concerns about the cost with your healthcare provider may lead to alternative treatment options or generics that could be more affordable.

In summary, while your testosterone levels are within the normal range, the decrease is worth monitoring. Your blood sugar levels should be interpreted with caution based on when the test was taken. Your current treatment with Cialis seems effective, but the duration and necessity of ongoing treatment should be a topic of discussion with your healthcare provider. Always feel free to ask questions and express any concerns you have during your medical appointments, as open communication is key to effective treatment.