Testosterone – it is one of the hormones that are produced in the human body. Typically produced in the testicles of men, it stimulates sperm production, male sex drive, and helps build muscle and bone mass.
Testosterone production generally declines with age in men. In the case of an excessive decrease in testosterone levels, low testosterone (300-1000 ng/dL) is diagnosed. A blood test is done to determine testosterone levels.
Symptoms of low testosterone can vary depending on how low the testosterone level is, as well as the age at which the patient's testosterone is low. Signs of low testosterone (hypogonadism) are often subtle and can be mistaken for a natural aging process.
Symptoms of low testosterone
1. Decreased sex drive
Testosterone plays an important role in the sex drive (libido) of men and women. Therefore, with age, men often experience a decrease in sexual desire. However, an even more dramatic decrease in sexual desire may be due to low testosterone.
2. Erection problems
Testosterone is also an important factor in achieving an erection, testosterone itself does not cause an erection, however, it stimulates receptors in the brain, as a result of which it produces nitric oxide, which helps to “start” erection. If testosterone levels are too low, this can lead to erectile dysfunction or spontaneous erections.
3. Not enough sperm
Testosterone also affects the production of seminal fluid. Everything is simple here: the higher the level of testosterone in a man, the more seminal fluid he produces. Therefore, if you notice a decrease in the amount of sperm during ejaculation, this may indicate low testosterone.
4. Hair Loss
Hair growth is also partially dependent on testosterone levels. Baldness is a natural process that accompanies the aging of a man. Therefore, loss of hair on the body or face can also indicate low testosterone.
5. Fatigue and lack of energy
With low testosterone levels in men, a significant decrease in energy and fatigue can be observed. If a man gets enough sleep, eats normally, but still feels constantly tired for no reason, he should have his testosterone level checked.
6. Loss of muscle mass
Loss of muscle mass – Another possible sign of low testosterone. A decrease in muscle mass and strength due to a decrease in testosterone levels is also characterized by the fact that it is quite difficult to build muscle after that.
7. Fat increase
The increase in body fat in a man, which sometimes manifests itself in gynecomastia (enlarged male breasts), can also be attributed to symptoms of low testosterone levels. The reasons for this phenomenon have not yet been established for certain, however, experts suggest that testosterone also affects the way fat is stored in the body.
8. Decreased bone mass
Loss of bone mass (osteoporosis) is often attributed to women's diseases. However, it is also found among men with low testosterone, since the latter also promotes the growth and strengthening of bones. That is why men who have low testosterone levels for a long time are more prone to bone fractures.
9. Mood changes
Mood swings are common in women during menopause when their estrogen levels drop. In men, this phenomenon also occurs with a decrease in testosterone levels and can be accompanied by depression, irritability and inability to focus.
Dear men, don't neglect your health and don't forget to see a doctor if you have any symptoms.
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