Many men suffer from signs and symptoms of low testosterone. But they may be embarrassed to discuss it with a doctor. Others may dismiss their symptoms as due to aging and assume nothing can be done about it.
Low testosterone, or Low T, can cause various undesirable symptoms because testosterone impacts so many different areas of the body. Symptoms include loss of body hair, depression, obesity, fatigue, loss of lean muscle mass, decreased interest in sex, and erectile dysfunction. The medical term for low testosterone is hypogonadism.
Here are some of the most common signs and symptoms of low testosterone.
1. Loss of body hair
A common sign of low testosterone is loss of body hair. For example, you may notice spots of hair loss on your scalp such as thinning or bald spots. This may be the first sign of low testosterone. However, there are other things that can cause hair loss such as aging, family history, medications, and hair management.
2. Depression and fatigue
While the role of testosterone and depression is not well known, a correlation has been found between depression and low testosterone. Low testosterone can decrease your energy and cause a change in your eating habits. In addition, you may also experience anxiety if low testosterone is present.
3. Obesity
Research has found that testosterone plays an essential role in metabolic disease. Low testosterone increases the amount of fat in the body. Unfortunately, this is also linked to abnormal glucose control and diabetes.
4. Loss of muscle mass
Testosterone supports muscle growth and helps keep muscle fibers strong. When there is a decrease in the level of testosterone in the body, the fat buildup can occur and muscle mass may decrease.
5. Sexual dysfunction
Sexual dysfunction is a common concern that leads to testosterone level testing. Decreased testosterone can causes decreased interest in sex, erectile dysfunction, and infertility. Without enough testosterone, the body can’t produce sperm. Testosterone plays an integral part in maintaining sexual health.
6. Enlarged breasts
Gynecomastia is the term for enlargement of male breast tissue. This enlargement can occur in just one breast or both. Gynecomastia occurs when there is a decrease in testosterone or an increase in the female hormone estrogen.
Diagnosis and treatment of abnormal testosterone
Evaluation for testosterone issues can be performed by a blood test. Since testosterone levels can change throughout the day, blood testing is typically performed in the morning.
The first step in treating testosterone abnormalities is determining the underlying cause. Once the underlying cause is determined, then proper treatment can be started.
Treatment often includes testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) to boost testosterone. There are several methods of providing testosterone: gels, pellet implants, or injections.
Don’t continue to live with the signs and symptoms of low testosterone. Schedule an appointment today!