Low testosterone is when your body lacks testosterone production or does not produce enough testosterone. It is a male sex hormone mainly produced by the testicles.
During adolescence, testosterone helps develop various male attributes, build muscle and bone mass, boost metabolism, enhance libido and mental function, and increase energy levels.
Testosterone production typically decreases with age. As you approach 30, your body naturally decreases testosterone production up to 1% every year.
Here are 11 common signs and symptoms of low testosterone in males
Low testosterone levels in men may experience hair loss, low libido, fatigue, muscle loss, and even mood swings.
Erectile Dysfunction
Testosterone stimulates man’s sex drive. It also aids in maintaining or supporting an erection. A molecule called Nitric oxide helps activate a series of chemical reactions required for an erection. But when testosterone levels are too low, you may have difficulty in erection before sex.
The other factors that can cause erectile dysfunction: smoking, high cholesterol, thyroid-related issues, diabetes, high blood pressure, alcohol consumption, stress, or anxiety.
Decreased Muscle Mass
When you endure low testosterone for long periods, it will likely affect your muscle mass. Testosterone plays an essential role in developing muscle mass, so the hormone level’s deficiency can significantly lose muscle mass.
Hair Loss
Hair loss is a general symptom of low testosterone. Many men undergo or experience hair loss as a natural part of aging.
Testosterone plays a pivotal role in body hair growth, so men with low testosterone may experience hair loss or balding.
Increased Belly Fat
An optimal level of testosterone helps burn the belly fat, and a reduction in hormone may lead to an increase in body fat.
Men with a lack of testosterone develop gynecomastia, which results in enlargement of the breasts.
Decreased Libido
Many men experience a decline in libido (sex drive) as they age. Testosterone has a direct effect on libido.
Testosterone plays a significant role in developing a man’s sex drive and sperm production, so this hormone’s deficiency can ruin your interest in sex.
Low T also causes significant hormonal changes, forcing a man to be unable to maintain an erection.
Fatigue
Men with low testosterone have reported severe fatigue and a decrease in energy levels.
Despite getting enough sleep, if you’re tired all of the time, you might have low T.
Sleep Apnea
Sleep apnea is also a sign and symptom of low testosterone in men. This severe disorder stops a person from breathing while sleeping.
Mood Swings
Testosterone help control your mood, so men with low T may experience mood swings, depression, increased irritability, and a general lack of focus.
This hormone regulates many physical attributes in the body; it also regulates mood and mental capacity.
Low Semen Production
Testosterone plays a pivotal role in semen production, the fluid that makes up most male ejaculate.
Men with low T will often notice a drop in the volume of their semen during ejaculation.
Decreased Bone Mass
Osteoporosis is an ailment often linked with women. Nevertheless, men with low testosterone may also undergo bone loss. Testosterone helps to produce bone tissue and support bone strength.
Mostly older men have weaker bone strength and are more sensitive to bone fractures.
Reduced Testicular Size
Our body needs testosterone to develop the penis and testicles. Still, low T could be the ultimate result for smaller testicles or penis than a man with normal testosterone levels.
Conclusion
If you notice any of these low testosterone signs, don’t hesitate to consult with your doctor. Your doctor will be able to test for testosterone imbalances and then help you alleviate these symptoms.
The most common treatment is testosterone replacement therapy (TRT). A doctor will prescribe TRT if you have symptoms of low testosterone. Get your testosterone tested before you lose your masculinity.
