7 Key Signs of Low Testosterone Every Man Should Know
Low testosterone is a common issue for men. In fact, by the age of 45, an estimated 40 percent of men will experience reduced testosterone levels. From there, the likelihood of suffering from low testosterone continues to increase, and men's testosterone levels generally drop by an average of one percent per year. Though this is a widespread issue for men, many don't realize they're living with it. With that being the case, understanding some of the most common warning signs is essential.
1) Gaining Weight
One of the most recognizable warning signs that a man is experiencing reduced testosterone levels is weight gain. Eating differently and getting less physical activity can certainly cause weight gain in men of all ages. If you're dealing with unexplained weight gain, though, low testosterone could be the culprit.
2) Losing Sleep
Being unable to sleep normally is another sign of low testosterone. Testosterone helps to keep your internal clock in sync, and it regulates the body's production of cortisol, which is the stress hormone. When testosterone levels drop, cortisol levels tend to rise, and your internal chronometer doesn't work as well as it should.
3) Mental and Emotional Changes
Mental and emotional changes are also indications of low testosterone levels. Many men have trouble concentrating due to testosterone deficiencies. Some become more irritable than usual or experience mood swings. Low testosterone can cause an increased risk of depression as well.
4) Reduced Energy
Dropping testosterone levels can also cause men to lose energy. It's common for people to have less energy as they age, but low testosterone can exacerbate this issue. Weight gain, sleep loss, and other symptoms of low testosterone can make this loss of energy even more significant. Of course, reduced energy can also contribute to some of the side effects of low testosterone.
5) Losing Strength
In addition to losing sleep, gaining weight, having less energy, and other side effects, low testosterone can cause men to lose some of their physical strength. Low testosterone doesn't decrease muscle mass, but many men who live with it find that they have trouble building and maintaining their muscle mass even when they ramp up their workout routines. They tend to feel weaker than normal as well.
6) Hair Loss
Reports show that about 70 percent of men begin to lose hair as they age, so this is a common issue. Low testosterone levels can increase the likelihood of hair loss. It's doesn't only affect the hair on the scalp, either. It can also cause men to lose facial and body hair. Thinning hair on your head and a receding hairline may not be a direct indication that your testosterone levels aren't where they should be, but if the rest of your hair seems to be thinning, that's a surefire sign.
7) Reduced Bone Mass
Another warning sign of low testosterone is reduced bone mass. Testosterone helps bones to develop properly and grow stronger in the prepubescent years. It also aids in keeping bones strong after the fact. When testosterone levels decrease, though, bones can become weaker and more brittle. That increases the risk of broken bones.
Boosting Testosterone Levels
Most men will experience low testosterone levels at some point. A testosterone deficiency can cause a long list of issues, but it's not irreversible. It's possible to regain healthy levels of this essential hormone with testosterone therapy and other measures. By returning testosterone levels to normal, you can reduce or eliminate the negative effects of a deficiency.
