When To See A Doctor
You may want to consider seeing a doctor if youre experiencing symptoms that you believe are the result of high or low testosterone levels.
If you took an at-home testosterone level test and your results showed levels outside the standard range, it may be worthwhile to make an appointment to see a doctor to discuss the results.
Your doctor can help confirm the testosterone test results, or they may order additional tests to understand what factors could be causing your low or high hormone levels. After that, they may also conduct a physical exam to check for signs of low or high T.
If the levels are not within a standard range, you can discuss treatments, including natural ways to change T levels.
Chronic Fatigue And Tiredness
Irrespective of how much rest or sleep one may get, due to low testosterone levels , feelings of extreme exhaustion will continue to persist.
If you are constantly feeling fatigued and tired, this may be one of the clearest signs of low testosterone . Due to poor energy levels, it becomes increasingly difficult to handle every day tasks and to exert oneself at a pace that is required to maintain good health, productivity and relationships.
This may place your body under severe stress, thus, increasing cortisol levels.
An increase in cortisol levels for a significant period of time may lead to adrenal fatigue which would affect hormone regulation within the body.
One of the hormones that is affected by high cortisol is testosterone.
Signs Of Low Testosterone
Low Testosterone, also known as Low T, is a condition that can affect men as they age. Because testosterone is critical for developing and maintaining several aspects of mens health, its important to know how to identify symptoms. Today, our mens health Lewisville TX specialists will be sharing the top five signs that you may want to speak with your doctor about testing for Low T.
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How To Stop Low T In Its Tracks
There are a number of things that we can do to help regain our youthful testosterone levels.
We can eat sensibly, cut out all fast and junk foods, reduce our alcohol intake and take regular exercise. even a brisk walk each day is good for our hormonal production.
If you are able to, go to the local gym and lift some weights, this is proven to be a powerful way of encouraging more testosterone to be released, it will also help restore strength, fitness and muscle tone.
Reduced Red Blood Cell Count
Testosterone plays a key role in your bodys creation of red blood cells, which are essential for delivering oxygen to organs and removing carbon dioxide from your body.
Research shows that older men and women with low testosterone have lower red blood cell counts and an increased risk of developing anemia.
ED treatments, delivered
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Should Women Take A Testosterone Test
If you are a female experiencing high or low testosterone symptoms, you may consider taking a testosterone test.
Abnormal testosterone levels in females can indicate larger health issues such as PCOS, abnormal or nonexistent menstrual periods, or infertility issues.
In some cases, low testosterone in females may also be caused by low estrogen or menopause as there is some overlap in the symptoms. A testosterone test and other hormone tests can help doctors determine a diagnosis.
Decreased Lean Muscle Mass
For the development and growth of muscle mass, testosterone is vital. One of the reasons why men are able to develop a larger body frame of muscle mass compared to women is because of testosterone.
However, the reverse is also true. When men start to notice a decrease in lean muscle mass despite efforts of trying to maintain or build muscle, it could be indicative of low testosterone.
Unfortunately, because the effects of low testosterone also impact metabolism, a loss in muscle mass may also be accompanied by fat gain at the same time.
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Reasons For Low Testosterone In Women
If youâre experiencing low testosterone symptoms, there are several possible causes for your imbalance, including:
- Long-term use of birth control
- Ovarian failure, which is where your ovaries stop functioning properly, can also lead to low testosterone levels
- Certain medications, as well as glandular tumors, can contribute to low testosterone symptoms
Is Low Testosterone Genetic
Genetic variants that affect the Y chromosome and the sex hormone-binding globulin may result in a higher risk for low testosterone. SHBG is a protein that helps deliver testosterone to the bodys tissues.
Rare genetic disorders such as Klinefelter syndrome, where males have an extra X chromosome, may also affect testosterone production.
A 2021 study identified 141 new genetic markers that may assist in determining the risk for low testosterone.
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Youre Tired All The Time
Fatigue is a common sign of low testosterone. You might feel like you just dont have the energy that youre used to. Or you might be incredibly tired, all the time.
According to the American Urological Association, men with low testosterone levels have a higher prevalence of fatigue than men with normal testosterone levels.
Researchers arent sure why fatigue is such a common symptom of low testosterone in men, but it could be related to sleep disturbances. Testosterone production peaks during deep sleep. If youre not getting adequate nighttime rest, your T levels may not reach their daytime peak. In one JAMA study , daytime testosterone levels decreased by 10-15% among healthy young men who restricted sleep to 5 hours per night for one week. Of course, skimping on sleep will make you tired in its own right, but there could be a double threat.
Fortunately an increased boost in energy is one of the first things I hear from my guys I put on TRT, says Calvert.
Youre Moody And Irritable
The grumpy old man trope exists for a reason: many men get cranky with age. But if you notice that youre feeling depressed or irritable without reason, it could be a sign of low testosterone. One small 2016 study found that men with low T between the ages of 21-41 were more likely to be diagnosed with depression than the control group.
Researchers are still trying to understand the link between testosterone and mood, but they know that testosterone does cross into the brain where it may affect the production of brain cells, create new neural connections that skew thoughts toward the positive , and regulate feel-good neurotransmitters. Without enough circulating testosterone, those brain benefits may not happen.
Many men with diagnosed testosterone deficiency notice a dramatic improvement in their mood after starting testosterone replacement treatment, says Calvert.
Find out with Hones at-home assessment. If your T levels are low, you can meet with a physician, and if appropriate, get a prescription.
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Typical Testosterone Levels In Men
Its important to speak with your doctor after receiving your results to better understand what they mean for you and your health. If your doctor has any concerns, they may consider a full diagnosis and treatment plan.
Levels between 300 and 800 nanograms per deciliter are the most common levels.
According to the American Urology Association, in men, levels below 300 ng/dL should be classified as low T or hypogonadism.
Testosterone levels typically decrease with age, so its not unusual to have lower levels at an older age. In fact, 50% of men over age 80 may have low T levels.
Ask your doctor about testosterone tests if you suspect you have below-standard hormone levels or if you notice developmental issues in your children. A wide range of treatments are available.
Some treatments include testosterone pellet implants and an oral testosterone supplement approved by the Food and Drug Administration .
The most common treatment for low testosterone is testosterone replacement therapy . TRT is given as an injection, a skin patch, or a topical gel containing testosterone that replaces the testosterone missing from your body.
Though this treatment is common, TRT is known to have some risks and side effects, including:
Men Naturally Lose Testosterone As They Age But There Are Low
Testosterone is the hormone that gives men their manliness. Produced by the testicles, it is responsible for male characteristics like a deep voice, muscular build, and facial hair. Testosterone also fosters the production of red blood cells, boosts mood, keeps bones strong, and aids thinking ability. Lack of testosterone, often nicknamed, low-t, can cause unwanted symptoms.
Testosterone levels peak by early adulthood and drop as you ageabout 1% to 2% a year beginning in the 40s. As men reach their 50s and beyond, this may lead to signs and symptoms, such as impotence or changes in sexual desire, depression or anxiety, reduced muscle mass, less energy, weight gain, anemia, and hot flashes. While falling testosterone levels are a normal part of aging, certain conditions can hasten the decline. Low t risk factors include:
- injury or infection
- chemotherapy or radiation treatment for cancer
- medications, especially hormones used to treat prostate cancer and corticosteroid drugs
- chronic illness
Millions of men use testosterone replacement therapy to restore low levels and feel more alert, energetic, mentally sharp, and sexually functional. But it’s not that simple. A man’s general health also affects his testosterone levels. For instance, being overweight, having diabetes or thyroid problems, and taking certain medications, such as glucocorticoids and other steroids, can affect levels. Therefore, simply having low-t levels does not always call for taking extra testosterone.
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What Are Signs Of Low Testosterone In Men
There are several warning signs to look for if you feel low testosterone is an issue. Five of the most important factors are:
- Low sex drive: You may not feel as strong an urge toward intimacy as before.
- Erectile dysfunction: You may experience issues with maintaining an erection during sexual activity.
- Fatigue: You may have a general feeling of tiredness.
- Loss of muscle: Low testosterone and muscle mass go hand in hand. You may experience a loss of lean muscle.
- Irritability: You may experience sudden mood swings or hot flashes.
What Are The Side Effects Of Testosterone Support Supplements
Testosterone support supplements may cause a variety of side effects, including:
-
Increased risk of heart disease
-
Prostate enlargement
While the above symptoms are rare, it’s imperative that we make note of the possibility of any side effects so that you know what you’re getting into.
Before beginning any treatment for low testosterone, it’s important to talk to your doctor about the potential risks and benefits. Testosterone supplements may help improve some symptoms, but they can also have serious side effects. Be sure to weigh the risks and benefits before starting any treatment.
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Symptoms Of Low Testosterone
Men with a testosterone deficiency may notice physical symptoms, such as fatigue, erectile dysfunction, or an inability to conceive with their partner.
Symptoms of low testosterone are sometimes difficult to recognize since they can look similar to symptoms of other conditions. They also may vary by age. Symptoms include: Infertility. Fatigue.
Poor Mood And Depression
In men of all ages, testosterone levels are closely correlated with confidence, mood and general quality of life.
When your testosterone levels fall below the normal level, it can have a negative impact on your mood and mental health.
One study from 2012 shows that treatment naïve hypogonadal men showed more severe symptoms of depression, anxiety, poor quality of life and sexual dysfunction than similar men assigned to testosterone treatment.
Other studies show similar results — that testosterone improves mood by a significant amount in men, with measurable decreases in negative emotional responses such as anger, irritability, and nervousness.
As always, dealing with frequent poor moods or other symptoms of depression isnt necessarily a sign that you have low testosterone.
However, if you frequently feel tired, irritated, anxious or depressed and also have some of the other symptoms of low testosterone, it could be worth getting your testosterone levels checked.
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What Are The Signs Of Low Testosterone In Men
Medically reviewed by Kristin Hall, FNP
Of testosterones many roles in human function and development , most of us know it as the hormone that turns boys into men.
Testosterone is responsible for several key functions in your body, from the development of your voice, hair and genitals to maintaining your sexual function and fertility.
It also plays a significant role in your mental wellbeing, helping to manage everything from your mood to your level of interest in sex.
The male body produces testosterone at a rate specific to each individual. But what happens when your body doesnt produce enough?
Below, weve listed several signs that you may experience if your testosterone levels are on the lower side of normal, from changes in the way you think and feel to physical changes that might affect your muscles, bones and even your sexual performance.
Weve also explained what you can do if you think you may have low testosterone and want to take action and treat it.
Testosterone Levels By Age
Overview
Testosterone is a powerful hormone in both men and women. It has the ability to control sex drive, regulate sperm production, promote muscle mass, and increase energy. It can even influence human behavior, such as aggression and competitiveness.
As you grow older, the level of testosterone in your body gradually . This can lead to a variety of changes such as reduced sex drive. While lower testosterone levels may be concerning, its a natural part of aging.
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What Are The Symptoms Of Low Testosterone
Low testosterone, sometimes called low-T or hypogonadism, is a very common condition that affects millions of men in the U.S. It can occur at any point in life, although it is more prevalent among men 45 and older than in younger age groups. If you suspect you might have a testosterone deficiency, this post may help you spot some of the symptoms.
The Most Common Symptoms Of Low Testosterone
As a man, testosterone plays a key role in your health and wellbeing. Its responsible for most of your male secondary sex characteristics, including your voice, facial hair growth, muscle strength and bone structure.
It also plays a key role in your sexual function. Testosterone is vital for proper sperm production, and as an adolescent, its involved in many aspects of your male sexual development.
Below, weve shared 12 common physical and mental symptoms that are used to diagnose low testosterone in men.
Because testosterone is a hormone with several functions, low levels can often result in multiple symptoms.
If youve noticed any of the symptoms below, its important to talk to your healthcare provider about getting a blood test to check your testosterone levels.
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Heart Attack Or Stroke
Currently there is a lot of debate about the safety of testosterone replacement, but we do know what happens when men do not have testosterone: They are more likely to fracture bones and have cardiac events, strokes and heart attacks, says urologist Mike Butcher, DO, an andrology fellow at the Southern Illinois University School of Medicine in Springfield, Illinois.
A review published in the November 2014 issue of Andrology looked at 53 testosterone studies published over 10 years. The researchers found a strong correlation between low testosterone, or hypogonadism, and an increased risk for early death or heart problems.
Youve Developed Man Boobs
If you do put on excess weight, you may find it in an unwanted area: your chest. The technical term for breast growth in men is gynecomastia, and can be related to an increased level of estrogen in comparison to testosterone, says Calvert.
Gynecomastia is usually not harmful but the breast tissue can be sore, and many men find it embarrassing, especially during summer months when youre baring your chest at the pool or backyard barbeques.
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Are There Any Foods That Can Increase Testosterone
There are a few key nutrients that are essential for maintaining healthy testosterone levels. Zinc, vitamin D, and magnesium are all critical for proper testosterone production. You can find these nutrients in foods like oysters, fortified cereals, and dark leafy greens.
Additionally, staying away from processed foods and eating a balanced diet will help ensure your body has all the nutrients it needs to produce testosterone. Exercise is also important for maintaining healthy testosterone levels. Strength training in particular has been shown to boost testosterone production.
Is There Such A Thing As A ‘male Menopause’
The “male menopause” is an unhelpful term sometimes used in the media.
This label is misleading because it suggests the symptoms are the result of a sudden drop in testosterone in middle age, similar to what occurs in the female menopause. This is not true.
Although testosterone levels fall as men age, the decline is steady at less than 2% a year from around the age of 30 to 40, and this is unlikely to cause any problems in itself.
A testosterone deficiency that develops later in life, also known as late-onset hypogonadism, can sometimes be responsible for these symptoms, but in many cases the symptoms are nothing to do with hormones.
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Total Testosterone Vs Free Testosterone Vs Bioavailable Testosterone
If youve ever searched for information about testosterone levels, you may have come across terms like total testosterone, free testosterone and bioavailable testosterone.
These terms refer to testosterone thats either freely floating in your blood or bound to certain proteins.
Free testosteroneas its name suggestsfreely circulates in your blood without being bound to any proteins.
This type of testosterone accounts for a relatively small percentage of your total testosteroneand generally, only about one to two percent of your total testosterone is in this state at any particular time.
Most of the testosterone in your body is bound to a protein called sex hormone binding globulin, or SHBG.
This testosterone isnt free to access your cells and is generally thought of as inactive. However, its still measured as part of your total testosterone.
Finally, about half of the leftover testosterone in your bloodstream is bound to albumin, a protein thats produced by your liver.
Unlike testosterone bound to SHBG, this testosterone can freely access cells and work its effects throughout your body.
Total testosterone is a term used to refer to all of the testosterone thats circulating in your blood, whether its free, or bound to albumin or SHBG.
Free testosterone refers only to testosterone thats freely circulating without being bound to any type of protein. Finally, bioavailable testosterone refers to testosterone thats free or bound only to albumin.