Low Testosterone is a common problem that affects men of all ages.
Testosterone is a sex hormone produced in the testicles that is responsible for male sexual development, sperm production, sperm quality, maintaining sexual drive and penile erection. It also plays a vital role in your body’s muscle mass, distribution of fats, strength, and energy levels.
It’s estimated that one in four men over 40 suffers from the condition. And while it’s not easy to detect, there are plenty of signs you can look for. So, if you notice these symptoms, talk to your doctor about getting the required treatment.
1. Low Testosterone decreases sex drive (libido)
One of the first signs that you may have low Testosterone is a decrease in your sex drive.
If you find that you’re not as interested in sex as you used to be (or at all), it could be due to low libido. But, of course, this can also be caused by other factors, such as stress or depression. So don’t jump to conclusions! But suppose there’s no apparent cause for the lack of interest and performance. In that case, it’s worth looking into your male hormone levels.
2. It causes erectile dysfunction (ED)
Erectile dysfunction (ED) is the inability to achieve or maintain an erection firm enough for sexual intercourse.
Erectile dysfunction is a common sign of hypogonadism. However, it’s essential to realize erections are not just about sex. They’re also an indication of overall health.
It’s worth noting that there are many different causes of erectile dysfunction, and not all are related to low male sex hormone levels.
Erections are caused by signals from nerve cells in the brain (in particular, the parasympathetic nervous system) that tell their target organ down below to relax and fill with blood. This process also requires good blood flow from arteries travelling into the penis from other parts of your body — mainly your heart.
In addition, sexual arousal triggers hormones like Testosterone, which help keep you turned on long enough for ejaculation or orgasm.
3. Low male hormone can cause low energy and fatigue
Men with low male sex hormone levels may experience fatigue, weakness, and a general lack of energy.
This is because Testosterone plays a role in regulating red blood cell production, which can affect the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to the body’s cells.
Additionally, low testosterone levels can cause depression and a lack of motivation, which can further contribute to feelings of low energy. However, it’s important to note that there are many other possible causes of low energy and that low testosterone levels alone do not necessarily indicate a problem.
Many people suffering from low Testosterone have low energy most of the time.
4. It reduces muscle mass
Low male sex hormone levels can lead to a decrease in muscle mass.
Testosterone is an essential hormone for muscle growth and development, and low levels can negatively impact muscle mass and strength.
In addition, hypogonadism can also lead to increased body fat and decreased bone density.
5. Mood fluctuations and trouble with concentration
Low testosterone levels can also impact mood and cognitive function.
Testosterone plays a role in regulating mood, and low levels can lead to symptoms such as depression, irritability, and fatigue. Testosterone also plays a role in cognitive function and memory, and low levels can result in trouble with concentration and memory.
Also, low testosterone levels may lead to reduced sexual desire and difficulty with sexual function.
6. Low Testosterone results in poor sleep
Low testosterone levels can also affect sleep. Testosterone plays a role in regulating the body’s circadian rhythm. So, low levels can lead to insomnia or difficulty sleeping. Low testosterone levels can also cause a decrease in sleep quality, such as less deep sleep and more frequent awakenings.
Studies have also shown that low levels of Testosterone are associated with an increased risk of sleep apnea.
7. It may cause penis and testicular size to reduce
Low hormone levels can also impact genitalia size. In addition, Testosterone plays a role in developing secondary sexual characteristics such as the penis and testicles.
Low levels of male sex hormones during puberty may lead to a smaller penis and testicles in adulthood. In addition, low testosterone levels in adulthood can also cause a decrease in testicular size. However, it’s important to note that penis and testicular size can vary significantly among individuals. Therefore, a smaller size does not necessarily indicate a problem with testosterone levels.
Nevertheless, suppose you have concerns about your testosterone levels or the size of your genitals. In that case, it’s essential to consult a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and treatment.
8. Reduce male sex hormone produces low semen volume during ejaculation
Low testosterone levels may also impact semen volume during ejaculation.
Male sex hormone plays a role in sperm production and semen volume; low levels may decrease semen volume. Low testosterone levels can also lead to a reduction in sperm count and motility. However, it’s important to note that semen volume can vary significantly among individuals, and a decrease in semen volume does not necessarily indicate a problem with testosterone levels.
Other factors such as infection, injury or genetic conditions may also affect semen volume.
9. Low Testosterone may cause fertility problems
Testosterone plays a role in sperm production; low levels can decrease sperm count and motility. In addition, low male sex hormone levels can also cause a reduction in semen volume.
Infertility can be defined as the inability to conceive after a year of regular sexual intercourse without the use of any contraception. It’s important to note that Infertility can have multiple causes. The lack of male sex hormones is only one contributing factor.
Your healthcare provider may conduct a semen analysis to determine your sperm count, motility and morphology and run some blood tests to check for testosterone levels.
10. Low Testosterone causes loss of body hair or balding
This hormone plays a role in hair growth and development; low levels can decrease hair growth. As a result, men with low sex hormone levels may experience hair loss on the scalp and a reduction in body hair.
Additionally, it is worth noting that hair loss can be a gradual process and is not always related to a specific event or change.
If you notice these issues, talk to your doctor
It’s important to note that other medical conditions may also cause some of the symptoms highlighted here, so a proper diagnosis is essential.
A healthcare professional will conduct a physical examination, ask about your symptoms, and conduct blood tests to check your testosterone levels. If a low hormone level is diagnosed, the healthcare professional will discuss treatment options with you, including testosterone replacement therapy, lifestyle changes or other medications.
The Bottom Line
Testosterone does much more than give you your manly appearance and powerful muscles. It also affects virtually every body function, from the heart to metabolism to the brain.
Low male hormone levels can devastate almost any body part, so it should never be left untreated.
