The male sex hormone, testosterone, is a vital component in male sexual health and development. In addition, testosterone aids in the development of masculine features like facial and body hair, a deeper voice, and stronger muscles. Although testosterone levels naturally decrease with age, there is a point where you can have a deficiency, which can lead to other issues. There are 6 common signs of low testosterone or Low T. Since other factors may contribute to plummeting testosterone levels, it is important to know the symptoms so you can take the best course of action.
Signs of Low T
After 40, testosterone levels drop off between 1-2% each year. By 50, the symptoms may become more noticeable and cause concern, though many men chalk it up to getting older. Alternatively, low testosterone levels don’t always mean symptoms manifest. Some men are unaware there is an issue until routine lab results come back. Each case of low testosterone levels should be investigated. Below are some of the most common symptoms experienced by males with Low T:
- Low Sex Drive
- Irritability
- Fatigue
- Reduction of Lean Muscle Mass
- Erectile Dysfunction
- Depression
Some conditions that share these symptoms include opioid use, diabetes, obesity, loss or harm of the testicles, and specific congenital conditions. Low testosterone levels often lead to other symptoms such as bone density issues, making it easier for them to fracture or break. To recap, talk with your doctor about whether you have symptoms or not. They can identify the root cause and whether treatment may be necessary.
Treating Low T and Improving Future Options
Not every male experiencing Low T needs treatment, and treating it unnecessarily may expose you to long-term, negative impacts. When required, the standard treatment for Low T is testosterone therapy (TT). TT comes in various forms that can be can taken by mouth, injected, inhaled, and even pellets that can be placed under the skin. Some men with Low T are not a candidate for TT, or may need close monitoring if there are co-existing conditions like heart disease.
Each person’s body works differently, and what works for one may not work for another. Many men remain without effective treatment options for Low T, even with TT and other options available. Clinical research studies are helping to improve the management of Low T and many other medical conditions. Volunteers participating in these studies make this possible.
To learn more about the future studies enrolling for Low T at Clinical Pharmacology of Miami, please call (305) 817-2900, or click here.
References:
https://www.urologyhealth.org/urologic-conditions/low-testosterone
https://www.health.harvard.edu/mens-health/treating-low-testosterone-levels