6 Signs You May be Suffering From Low Testosterone
After age 30, testosterone levels in men can decline somewhat, and this is often not problematic. But if your testosterone levels get too low, it can cause a range of symptoms and interfere with your daily life, overall wellness, and relationships.
If you suspect you’re dealing with such symptoms, the team at Arlington Family Practice in Arlington, Massachusetts, can test your testosterone levels and treat your symptoms. Read on to learn some of the common symptoms of low testosterone, which can improve significantly with proper treatment.
1. Reduced sex drive
The desire for sex ebbs and flows for most men and women and occasional dips are natural and not a cause for concern. If your libido is significantly lower than it used to be, however, low testosterone levels may be the culprit. This is because the hormone plays an important role in your sex drive.
2. Erectile dysfunction
Occasional difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection is also normal, but if it happens frequently, this is considered erectile dysfunction. Testosterone stimulates the production of nitric oxide in penile tissue, which makes erections possible. So the lower your levels, the less likely you’ll be to get or keep an erection.
3. Lower energy levels
Among other important roles, balanced hormones allow for positive energy levels throughout the day. If you’re lacking testosterone, your energy can drop and make you feel wiped out even after a good night’s sleep. This dip in energy can lead to tiredness and fatigue.
4. Higher body fat
Healthy hormonal levels also help ensure that your body can effectively turn food into energy. A testosterone deficiency can interfere with this function and lead to weight gain.
5. Mood swings
While the precise correlation isn’t understood, low testosterone is linked with causing and worsening depression, anxiety, and irritability. Other effects of low testosterone levels, such as sexual dysfunction and tiredness, can worsen these issues.
6. Hair loss
Hair loss commonly stems from low levels of testosterone. While hair loss can be due to aging, low levels of testosterone can also play a part. You might notice bald spots you hadn’t had before or an increase in thinning hair in multiple areas or your body.
If any of these symptoms sound familiar, book an appointment online or over the phone with Arlington Family Practice to see if you have low testosterone levels.