Low Testosterone Symptoms in Men

Low energy, hair loss, weakening muscles--while some men may think these are normal signs of aging, they may also be a sign of something more serious. These are just some symptoms of low testosterone in men. A decrease in testosterone production can be age related or could be a sign of another condition, such as hypogonadism. Testosterone levels can be tested to determine whether they’re at the normal level for a certain age group. Consider talking to your doctor about being tested if you start to experience one or more of the following low testosterone symptoms:

1. Low Energy. Of course we all get tired at certain points in our day, but if you often experience low energy even after a full night’s sleep, periods of extreme fatigue, or a lack of focus and motivation, then you should talk to your doctor about testing for low testosterone.
2. Low Sex Drive. Even if you have the energy to have sex, men with low testosterone may notice a dip in their desire to. Any drastic drop in libido can affect more than just your health; it can also put a damper on your relationship. Talk to your doctor about ways to increase testosterone can you can turn up the heat in the bedroom.
3. Sexual Dysfunction. If the desire to have sex is still there, low testosterone may still affect your sex life by making it harder to perform. Testosterone helps men achieve an erection by stimulating receptors in the brain that trigger a sexual response. Some men with low testosterone may also have a lower sperm count or become infertile. If you’re experiencing erectile dysfunction, problems reaching orgasm, or difficulty conceiving a child, discuss your condition with your doctor.
4. Loss of Muscle Mass, Bone Density, and Strength. Building and strengthening muscles rely on proper testosterone production. A decrease in testosterone may lead to less strength and muscle in the arms, legs, or chest and difficulty regaining muscle by weight training. Some men take testosterone supplements in order to gain body-building bulk and increase strength.
5. Mental and Emotional Changes. The body is not the only thing affected by low testosterone; the mind is just as susceptible to symptoms. A decrease in self-confidence, more mood swings, irritability, and depression are some additional symptoms of low testosterone production. If you experience any of these signs along with any of the physical changes above, talk to your doctor about testing your testosterone levels to determine whether or not the signs are correlated.