Men tend to have high levels of the hormone testosterone, especially in comparison to women. Testosterone is the key male sex hormone that regulates things like fertility, mood, muscle mass, and more. As men age, they tend to experience a small drop in testosterone levels, and this is normal. Men aged 30 onwards will find that their levels drop – a fall in levels will usually be noticed between the ages of 30-40.
However, levels can drop at a younger age, or they may drop to lower levels than normal later on in life, and this can cause issues for the affected male. As testosterone is such an important hormone, it can greatly affect the quality and enjoyment of life if a person suffering from low levels. Because of this, many men seek out treatment for their issues in the hopes of feeling younger and rejuvenated. Providing the right treatment is chosen for the right candidate, great results can occur.
Below, we will discuss what happens when a man’s testosterone drops below normal levels. A man may experience a handful of symptoms listed, but it is unlikely that they will suffer from all of them at once. If you suspect that you have low levels of testosterone, being tested by a testosterone doctor and discussing the best treatment options for you as an individual is a must!
Read on to find out what can happen when a man’s testosterone is low:
What Happens When A Man’s Testosterone Is Low?
- Low Sex Drive
One of the most commonly associated issues with low testosterone levels is a low sex drive. It can be one of the most troublesome issues for men, as they may feel they are unable to satisfy their partner or meet their needs sexually. Libido can vary greatly in men anyway; a number of other factors can come into play. These factors include age, stress and sleep. However, a male may not even consider his low sex drive a problem until his partner addresses it. Low sex drive can be a normal part of ageing and feeling comfortable in a relationship, but if it is becoming a problem for both you and your partner then this may be a sign that something else is going on.
Although low sex drive is commonly associated with low testosterone, you may be surprised to learn that not all men with low testosterone experience this. It is commonly experienced, but is not guaranteed in those with low testosterone levels. So if you’re thinking, ‘my condition must not be low testosterone because my sex drive is fine.’ Don’t jump to conclusions just yet. Paying attention to your unique symptoms and visiting a health professional is key.
- Erectile Dysfunction
Erectile dysfunction can occur as a result of low testosterone, but it does not always go hand in hand with a low sex drive either. Low testosterone alone (with no other health problems) only accounts for a small minority of men with erectile dysfunction. Erectile dysfunction can occur as a number of other problems, so having tests done to ensure it is actually happening because of low testosterone levels is crucial to your treatment and staying healthy.
Insomnia
Many men with low testosterone levels may experience issues in their sleeping pattern. Insomnia is an issue for many, and sleep apnea can also be present. This is a condition that causes your breathing to stop and start repeatedly while you sleep – it can be dangerous if left untreated, although can go undetected for quite some time.
Being unable to sleep can cause frustration and stress in everyday life, and you will find that you are unable to perform at your best. With the added stresses of your low testosterone symptoms, life quality can drop and your relationships, career, and other areas of your life may suffer.
Chronic Fatigue
Many men who have low testosterone may also experience chronic fatigue. They may feel tired regardless of how much sleep they have had, but the problem can also be exacerbated due to a lack of sleep because of the low testosterone too. Chronic fatigue is difficult to live with and some people even find themselves unable to work.
Mental and physical fatigue is a common sign of low testosterone, but again, it can be a symptom of a number of other issues, so testing is imperative to ensure that this is what is going on below the surface.
Loss of Muscle Mass and Loss of Strength
Many physical changes can happen in the body if you have low testosterone levels. You may notice a loss of muscle mass and strength, as well as an increase in body fat. Many men with low testosterone find increased fat around the mid-section especially.
Bone density is also affected, and many men find that they have fragile bones that are more prone to breakages. There may be a decrease in body hair, and even a swelling/tenderness in the breast tissue. Hot flashes can also occur. Physical changes can be one of the most difficult to deal with for men.
Loss of Motivation
Low testosterone can be linked with feelings of lost motivation. You may feel emotionally drained and like you no longer want to do the things that you once enjoyed. You may not want to exercise, take part in hobbies, or do the things you used to want to do. You will be unlikely to want to do things you know you should do, like stay active.
Depressed and/or Low Mood
As well as physical changes, a depressed/low mood is common with low levels of testosterone. Feeling sad and depressed can be expected, and many also find that they have issues with their memory and concentration to boot. Hormones play a huge part in mood regulation, so lower testosterone can wreak havoc on how you feel and this can be both distressing and confusing.
Lower self confidence may also be experienced as a result of low testosterone. A combination of the irritability, decreased sex drive, and fatigue can all lead to feeling lower in mood, but this may go one step further and feel like depression after a time. However, depression is common in a number of people and isn’t always caused by this, so visiting a testosterone doctor if you believe your levels may be low will help you to figure this out.
Other Potential Issues
- Night sweats – sleeping issues like insomnia are common, and so are issues such as night sweats. They are slightly less common, but are still listed as a symptom of low testosterone levels.
- Change in genital size – the penis, testicals, or both can change size due to low testosterone levels.
- Breast tenderness/swelling – in some cases, the male breast tissue may become tender and swell.
How Can You Identify Low Testosterone?
If you would like to identify low testosterone, you should look out for the warning signs listed here. It’s worth noting that not all of the symptoms will be present in every man. You may experience a couple, or even a handful, but it is very unlikely you will experience all of them unless this goes untreated for an amount of time and becomes severe. You cannot diagnose yourself with low testosterone, as there’s a chance something else is at play. Instead, you will need to contact a medical professional and be tested to ensure you have been diagnosed correctly and that you can receive proper treatment.
The number of men who are suffering from low testosterone has tripled over the last decade, but even so, many patients who need hormone replacement for a testosterone deficiency are not receiving it. It’s important to get tested ASAP if you feel you may have a problem. Even if it doesn’t turn out to be low testosterone, there are treatments that can help you.
Do not be embarrassed about any symptoms that you may be suffering from and ensure you get tested by a testosterone doctor so you can get help as soon as possible.
What Is The Treatment For Low Testosterone?
There are a number of treatments for low testosterone, although some are more effective than others. There are things like creams and gels available, although the testosterone that is absorbed by the body is not put to use as well as testosterone injections. Testosterone injections provides the body with testosterone in a way that it is not binded and can be used freely by the body. Although there may be slight risks with this treatment, for the right candidate, they can provide a new lease of life. The pros tend to greatly outweigh the cons and all candidates experience alleviated symptoms. People who have testosterone injections report feeling in a happier mood, feeling and looking fitter, sleeping better, better sexual activity, and more.
The only way to know for sure if this treatment is right for you is to meet with an experienced testosterone doctor and discuss your issues, have some tests done, and then discuss your options.
