input and direction

[SAWwant75]

Im 42, 6'2'', 205, ex athlete. I am back into lifting, and cardio for the last 13 months, and have made strides in my over all health. I was never overweight or obese, but I definitely became the soft 215-220. that all changed.

This is what I want.
Im down to 205 and would like to put on some mass. By no means do i mean huge, but to put on some good proportional mass on my frame. In particular on my upper body.
For the last year i have also noticed my sex drive has gone to shit. Its a beating for me since i have always been very active. I would like for that to return.

I have a very reputable supplier for anything i need.

im all ears, and would appreciate any input. Especially about what kind of tests to run prior to doing any thing. Can i go to a doc in the box to get these tests done or my regular doctor.

[kelkel]

Hi Saw!

A mans testosterone levels can begin to decrease naturally in their 30's. Several other medical issues can cause a much more rapid on-set of low (er) T levels. Step #1 is blood work which if possible should be done through your doctor so insurance will cover it. Take a look in the Finding A Doc sticky thread at the top of this forum and give it a read. Ideally you'd want the first set of BW listed there.

If you can't get it through a doctor take a look at sites such as discounted labs dot com or private md labs dot com. They both have hormone panels for men that are really dirt cheap, no doctor involved and you use your normal lab to get it done. This is all assuming your state allows this as some do not.

Welcome to the forum. In the meantime, read the stickies and self-educate as there are many doctors out there who really have no clue about hormones and proper protocols.

[SAWwant75]

Thank you Kelkel. I was told to look out for your comments and advice. I will read those for sure.
I went and has my levels checked at a LowT, i was 360.

[kelkel]

Well 360 is barely above the normal cut of line for Labcorp. Don't let the doctor tell you "your normal" at this number. The reason for the large list of blood work is to help to determine where the problem lies in effort to restore satisfactory natural production first. Many things can impact T production such as thyroid issues, cortisol, adenoma's and the list can go on.

If good production can't be restored and you're diagnosed as either primary (testicular) or secondary (pituitary) hypogonadal then you can better decide on the path forward based on your lifestyle, family circumstances, etc. I mentioned the two main causes above but it doesn't have to be one or the other, it can be a combination of both or simply age related. You're human.

Main thing is to prepare yourself by understanding the differenty types of therapy that is available and to learn how hormones work in your body so you're not given a poor protocol from a doctor. My goal was to always know the answer to a question before I asked my doc. When starting out I'd write a list of questions so I would not forget any. It helps, trust me. Also start maintaining copies of all your blood work. You'll find it quite helpful in the future.

When you have the time google the "Adam Questionnaire" and answer it. Let me know how you do.

Ok, I'm droning on......