Testosterone is a hormone found in both men and women, but it is the primary sex hormone in males. It is responsible for deepening the voice and developing body hair and muscle mass of boys during puberty. Testosterone is all needed in order to produce sperm. As men age, testosterone levels typically decrease, but in some cases, men develop a testosterone deficiency called Testosterone Deficiency Syndrome (TD) or simply Low Testosterone (LT). Low testosterone affects nearly 40% of men aged 45 and older.
Low testosterone can be identified through a variety of symptoms. If you are experiencing any of the following signs of LT, contact Alliance Urology to figure out the best treatment plan for you.
Some Signs of Low Testosterone Include:
- Low Sex Drive
Testosterone is the male sex hormone that is produced in the testicles. For men experiencing low levels of testosterone, it is common to have a reduced sex drive.
- Hair Loss
While balding is a common part of the aging process for many men, hair loss on the rest of the body, including facial hair, is one of the signs of low testosterone.
In addition to a decrease in sex drive, having trouble getting or maintaining an erection is one of the signs of low testosterone. Testosterone is responsible for sending signals to the brain to produce an erection, so if a man has lower levels of the hormone, the signal may not be strong enough. Erectile dysfunction can be caused by a variety of factors and conditions, so it’s a good idea to consult your urologist to get a proper diagnosis.
- Mood Swings
Some men with low testosterone have reported a loss of focus, irritability, or even depression. Sudden mood swings in addition to some of the other symptoms listed are one of the more pronounced signs of low testosterone.
- Weight Gain
With a decrease in testosterone comes the possibility of weight gain. Fortunately, working out to lose excess weight can help to boost testosterone and lessen the effects of LT symptoms.
- Sleep Disruption
When hormonal changes occur within the body, it can interfere with a variety of day-to-day functions. Men with low testosterone may notice disruptions with their normal sleeping patterns. Sleep is the body’s way to detoxify and reset, so without it, other symptoms of low testosterone such as mood swings and weight gain may be amplified.
- Lower Energy Levels
As we age, our energy levels decrease, but for those with low testosterone, this lower energy level is even more pronounced. This symptom typically coincides with sleep disruptions, mood swings, and weight gain.
- Decreased Bone Mass
Testosterone plays a crucial role in helping to develop bone and muscle mass for prepubescent males, so it’s not surprising that men with low testosterone levels experience a decrease in bone mass. Low testosterone can contribute to a higher risk of bone fractures, especially in aging men.
- Decreased Strength
In addition to decreased bone mass, men with low testosterone may feel weaker than normal. While the actual muscle mass can be maintained, aging men with low testosterone may find it more difficult to build muscle mass.
What treatments are available?
Depending on the underlying cause of low testosterone, there are a variety of treatments available. To figure out the cause of low testosterone, and to determine the best treatment options, schedule an appointment with one of our providers. You can call Alliance Urology Specialists in Greensboro at (336) 274-1114.
