Your sex drive isn’t the only thing at risk of low testosterone. Symptoms of low T can often be subtle and can be physical, cognitive, or sexual. Discover the signs below and what you can do to optimize your testosterone levels.
Why is testosterone important?
Testosterone is a hormone produced by the testicles that is crucial for building muscle and fuelling your sex drive. Testosterone also plays an essential role in the maintenance of bone density, the production of red blood cells and sperm as well as other bodily functions including growth of facial and body hair.
Factors that affect testosterone levels in men include ageing, obesity, and environmental toxins. Low testosterone levels, also known as “low T”, can have a significant impact on a man's overall health and well-being. But fear not, there is treatment available and lifestyle changes that you can make, to help you optimize your T levels.
What are the symptoms of low Testosterone?
While most men see their testosterone levels start to drop with age, you could experience low T in your 20s or 30s. And your sex drive isn’t the only thing at risk of low T. Symptoms of low T can be physical, cognitive, or sexual. And most men will only experience a select few. Signs of low T are often subtle and can include:
You have a lower sex drive
One of the most common symptoms of low T is a decrease in sex drive or libido. Testosterone plays a crucial role in a man's sexual function, and when levels are low, it can lead to a decrease in sexual desire.
You struggle to get and maintain an erection
Low T levels can cause difficulty in achieving and maintaining an erection. It’s important to note other health conditions can also cause erectile difficulties including diabetes, thyroid disorders, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, depression and stress.
You experience loss of muscular strength and lean muscle mass
Low T levels can lead to a decrease in muscle mass and strength, which can impact physical performance. A Japanese study found that men with low testosterone levels had double to triple the risk of muscle loss with aging as those with normal T levels.
Your penis may get smaller
The body requires testosterone to develop the penis and testicles, so low T could contribute to a disproportionately smaller penis or testicles.
Your belly fat increases
Testosterone plays a role in regulating body fat distribution, and low T levels can lead to an increase in belly fat. Belly fat is associated with several health risks, including heart disease and diabetes. Men with low T may also develop gynecomastia, which is enlarged breast tissue. Gynecomastia can occur when there is an imbalance of testosterone and oestrogen in the body.
You face difficulties with concentration and memory
Testosterone is essential for brain function and cognitive performance. Low T levels can impact concentration, memory, and cognitive function.
You experience symptoms of depression
Testosterone is also essential for mental health and well-being. Low T levels can lead to symptoms of depression, including sadness, lack of motivation, and anxiety.
You feel moody and irritable
Low T levels can cause mood swings and irritability. Moreover, mood disorders like depression and anxiety can supress the testicles’ ability to produce testosterone which can exacerbate the problem.
Your bones weaken
Testosterone plays a vital role in bone health, and low T levels can lead to a decrease in bone density and as a result an increased risk of fractures and osteoporosis.
Your hair starts to fall out/ looks thinner
Testosterone is necessary for the growth and maintenance of body hair, and low T levels can lead to thinning hair and hair loss. You may notice your beard isn’t growing as quickly and you don’t have to shave as frequently.
Your energy levels drop
Low T can cause fatigue and decreased energy. You may have low testosterone if you’re consistently tired despite getting plenty of sleep or if you find it harder to get motivated to exercise. A 2019 study found that when men received testosterone therapy, 52% said their energy levels improved.
You could develop anaemia
Doctors have linked low T with an increased risk for anaemia, according to a 2017 study. Symptoms of anaemia include difficulty concentrating, dizziness, leg cramping, difficulty sleeping and a rapid heart rate.
You experience hot flashes
Experiencing hot flashes can be a sign of low testosterone. This can feel like a sudden sensation of warmth. You may also experience heavy sweating, reddening of the skin, and night sweats.
There are many other possible reasons for these symptoms, including certain medical conditions, loss of, or harm to, the testicles, diabetes, and obesity. See your doctor if you have any of these symptoms and suspect you might have low T. Your GP may order a blood test to measure your testosterone levels and you could be prescribed testosterone therapy.
What can you do to boost your Testosterone levels naturally?
Some ways to boost testosterone levels naturally include exercise, a healthy diet, stress management, getting enough sleep and taking supplements like HIMMENSE BOOST. You can boost your testosterone levels naturally by incorporating the tips here.
In conclusion, the consequences of getting older mean that a man’s natural testosterone levels start to decline from the age of 25–30. Other conditions and circumstances may also cause low T, like cancer treatment such as chemotherapy and radiation, stress and kidney disease. Research shows a strong link between low testosterone and increased risk of developing obesity, osteoporosis and heart disease, so, it’s vital to take the necessary steps to optimize your T-levels and slow down the process.
Advice is for information only and should not replace medical care. Consult a healthcare professional if you have any questions or are taking any other medications before you try any remedies or supplements. Remember, if you are experiencing severe symptoms of low testosterone, tell your doctor.
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