Are you feeling off and can’t quite pinpoint why?
It might be low testosterone levels. Testosterone levels in men are steadily declining, with research indicating an average decrease of 1% per year since the 1980s. This alarming trend has far-reaching implications, as low testosterone is linked to a wide array of health and fertility issues. From a diminished sex drive to an increased risk of metabolic syndrome, the effects can be profound and life-altering. How do you know if you have low testosterone? Discover the top 20 signs and take proactive steps to reclaim your vitality and well-being today.
1. Reduced Sex Drive/Libido
Perhaps the most telling sign that a man’s testosterone is low is a reduced sex drive. Testosterone increases sex drive in men by stimulating receptors in the brain that enhance the production of sexual desire and arousal [1].
If you find yourself less interested in sex or experiencing fewer sexual thoughts, it might be time to check your testosterone levels. Understanding this sign early can help you seek appropriate treatment and reignite your passion.
2. Erectile Dysfunction
Erectile dysfunction, or the inability to achieve or maintain an erection, is another common symptom of low testosterone. Over 18% of men over the age of 20 will experience erectile dysfunction in their lifetime [2]. Dealing with erectile dysfunction becomes increasingly common as men age.
In many cases, erectile dysfunction is situational or temporary. Many reversible factors can cause it:
- Stress and anxiety
- Alcohol consumption
- Smoking
- Certain medications
- Fatigue
- Relationship issues
- Performance anxiety
While there are various causes for erectile dysfunction, low testosterone is a common culprit. This can be a little more challenging than dealing with some of the causes of erectile dysfunction above.
Testosterone helps the processes needed for a man to obtain an erection. If you deal with long-term erectile dysfunction, consider testing your testosterone levels. Recognizing this sign and addressing low testosterone can significantly improve erectile function and your overall sexual health.
3. Reduced Semen Volume
Testosterone doesn’t just play a role in producing erections. It also plays a vital role in producing semen.
If you notice less semen than usual after ejaculation, you may have low testosterone. This change could be more subtle than some of the other signs. However, if you notice lower levels of semen, you may want to consider talking with a healthcare provider about your testosterone levels.
4. Lower Sperm Count
Low testosterone levels can result in a lower sperm count, which can affect fertility. Testosterone is essential for the production of sperm in the testes. It plays a vital role in the development and maintenance of male reproductive tissues and stimulates the production of sperm cells.
When testosterone levels are low, the body’s ability to produce healthy and adequate amounts of sperm diminishes, leading to a reduced sperm count. This can make it more challenging for men to father children, affecting their overall reproductive health.
Testing sperm count is straightforward. A healthcare provider typically conducts a semen analysis, in which a semen sample is collected and analyzed under a microscope.
The test measures several factors of sperm health, including:
- The number of sperm present (sperm count)
- Their shape (morphology)
- Their movement (motility)
To ensure accurate results, the sample is usually collected after a period of abstinence from ejaculation, typically 2-7 days. If you suspect low testosterone might be affecting your fertility, consulting with a healthcare professional can provide clarity and guide you toward appropriate treatments.
5. Decreased Testicle Size
Regular self-exams are vital for monitoring your health, and your testicles are no exception. The average size of a testicle in an adult male is around 4 x 3 x 2 centimeters (cm), usually oval-shaped and housed within the scrotum [3].
It's normal for one testicle to be slightly larger or hang lower than the other. However, if you notice your testicles have become smaller, it might be due to low testosterone levels.
Low testosterone, or hypogonadism, can lead to testicular atrophy. This is a condition where the testicles shrink significantly below the average size.
If you observe any changes in testicle size, it's essential to act quickly. Early detection and action can significantly improve your health and well-being.
6. Infertility
If erections and sperm quality are negatively impacted by low testosterone, then overall fertility will also likely suffer. Up to 1 in 8 couples experience trouble conceiving, with one-third of infertility cases being due to male factors.
Men experiencing difficulty conceiving should consider having their testosterone levels checked as part of a comprehensive fertility evaluation. Addressing low testosterone can sometimes improve fertility outcomes and enhance your chances of starting a family.
7. Fatigue or Low Energy Levels
Testosterone is one of many hormones men and women produce for various functions. Its presence is crucial for balancing hormones and ensuring the entire body operates optimally.
Chronic fatigue and consistently low energy levels are telling signs of low testosterone [4]. Testosterone helps regulate energy production and vitality.
Therefore, a testosterone deficiency can leave you feeling perpetually tired, even after enough rest. Identifying and treating low testosterone can restore your energy levels and overall well-being.
8. Lack of Motivation or Self-Confidence
When testosterone levels are low, you may not feel “like yourself.” Low testosterone can affect mental health, leading to reduced motivation and self-confidence. These feelings are especially true if you are dealing with performance issues and infertility.
Remember, you are not alone. Millions of people are dealing with these same hardships and are finding ways to navigate through them daily. You can, too!
If you’re finding it hard to stay motivated or feel unusually insecure, it might be due to decreased testosterone affecting your mental state. Recognizing these psychological symptoms can be the first step toward seeking help and improving your quality of life.
9. Mood Changes, Including Irritability and Depression
Testosterone can influence mood and emotional well-being beyond focus and self-confidence. It can devolve into more serious mental health issues.
Dealing with low testosterone may cause men to experience:
- Mood swings
- Increased irritability
- Restlessness
- Symptoms of depression
If you are feeling hopeless, sad, or unmotivated often, you may have depression. Please seek help from a professional to help you find effective ways to cope and other treatments that could be useful for improving your mental health.
10. Difficulty Concentrating or Memory Problems
When testosterone levels are low, it can be hard to concentrate and remember things. Testosterone is important for keeping the brain healthy and sharp.
Men with low testosterone might struggle to focus on tasks, solve problems, or remember new information. This can show up as forgetting things often, having trouble concentrating, and feeling mentally foggy. These problems can make work, school, and daily activities difficult, leading to frustration and a lower quality of life.
11. Sleep Disturbances or Insomnia
Sleep isn’t just crucial so you’re not a zombie the next day. It’s also vital for maintaining balance throughout the body, including your hormones.
Sleep disturbances, including insomnia, can be related to low testosterone [5]. Testosterone helps regulate sleep patterns, so a deficiency might interfere with your ability to get restful sleep.
In turn, a lack of sleep can amplify other symptoms like fatigue and irritability. Therefore, addressing low testosterone can improve sleep quality and overall health.
12. Hot Flashes
Women aren’t the only ones who can suffer from hot flashes. While more commonly associated with menopause, hot flashes can also occur in men who have low testosterone levels.
These sudden feelings of warmth can be uncomfortable and are a signal that your hormone levels might be out of balance.
13. Decreased Muscle Mass and Strength
Low testosterone levels might be to blame if you’re maintaining a workout routine and not noticing gains. Testosterone is crucial for muscle development and strength.
A significant decrease in muscle mass and strength might indicate low testosterone. Lower testosterone may start to affect your physical performance and overall muscle health.
Early intervention can help maintain muscle mass and strength, supporting a more active lifestyle.
14. Increased Body Fat, Especially Around the Midsection
Low testosterone can cause an increase in body fat, especially around the belly. Extra belly fat is called visceral fat, and it’s linked to higher risks of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and metabolic syndrome [6]. Visceral fat is active in your body and releases substances that can mess with your normal functions, making these health problems worse.
Keeping your testosterone levels balanced can help control body fat and improve your health. Muscle tissue burns more calories than fat, even when you're resting, which helps you avoid weight gain.
It's also important to consider estrogen when discussing testosterone and body fat. Estrogen is usually thought of as a female hormone, but it is also an important male hormone.
When testosterone levels are low, estrogen can become relatively higher. This imbalance can lead to more body fat, particularly around the belly.
Higher estrogen levels can make your body store more fat and change how fat is spread throughout your body. Managing both testosterone and estrogen levels is key to maintaining a healthy body composition. Regular exercise, a balanced diet with lean proteins and healthy fats, and good stress management can naturally help balance these hormones.
15. Gynecomastia
Gynecomastia is the development of enlarged breast tissue. This condition can occur when there is an imbalance between testosterone and estrogen in the body.
This hormonal imbalance can happen for several reasons:
- Aging: As men age, testosterone levels naturally decline, while estrogen levels may remain the same or increase, leading to gynecomastia.
- Medications: Certain drugs, such as anabolic steroids, anti-androgens, and some antidepressants, can affect hormone levels.
- Health Conditions: Conditions like hyperthyroidism, kidney disease, and liver disease can disrupt hormone production and balance.
- Lifestyle Factors: Excessive alcohol consumption and use of recreational drugs can also impact hormone levels.
Gynecomastia can be distressing but is a treatable symptom of low testosterone. Seeking medical advice can lead to effective treatments and improved confidence.
16. Reduced Body and Facial Hair Growth
Testosterone plays a key role in stimulating hair growth on the body and face. When testosterone levels are low, you might notice reduced hair growth in these areas.
This change is important because it reflects shifts in secondary sexual characteristics. These are traits that develop during puberty and are influenced by sex hormones. Noticing less body or facial hair can be an early sign that your testosterone levels might be lower than they should be.
17. Osteoporosis
Testosterone plays a crucial role in maintaining bone density. It helps stimulate bone growth and ensures bones remain strong and healthy throughout life.
When testosterone levels are low, the bones can become weakened, leading to an increased risk of fractures and conditions such as osteoporosis [7]. Osteoporosis is a disease where bones become brittle and fragile, making them more susceptible to breaking. This condition can significantly impact quality of life, leading to chronic pain and decreased mobility.
Monitoring bone health is essential, especially if you suspect low testosterone levels. Early detection and treatment can prevent serious bone-related complications. Addressing low testosterone through lifestyle changes, medical treatments, or both can help maintain robust bone density and reduce the likelihood of fractures.
18. Anemia
Low testosterone levels can lead to anemia, a condition where you don't have enough healthy red blood cells to carry adequate oxygen to your body's tissues. This happens because testosterone helps stimulate the production of red blood cells in the bone marrow.
When testosterone levels drop, red blood cell production can decrease, resulting in anemia [8]. Anemia can make you feel tired and weak because your body isn't getting the oxygen it needs to function properly.
Common symptoms of anemia include:
- Persistent fatigue
- Weakness
- Pale or yellowish skin
- Shortness of breath
- Dizziness
- Cold hands and feet.
If you experience these symptoms, it's important to consult with a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.
19. Increased Risk of Metabolic Syndrome and Type 2 Diabetes
Metabolic syndrome is a group of conditions that include high blood pressure, high blood sugar, extra fat around the waist, and abnormal cholesterol or triglyceride levels. Testosterone helps regulate how the body handles insulin and glucose (sugar).
When testosterone levels are low, the body may not respond well to insulin, a condition known as insulin resistance [9]. Insulin resistance leads to higher blood sugar levels and can result in type 2 diabetes. Additionally, low testosterone can cause weight gain and increased belly fat, which are parts of metabolic syndrome.
20. Changes in Cholesterol Levels
Testosterone plays an important role in how the body handles fats, known as lipid metabolism. When testosterone levels are low, it can lead to negative changes in cholesterol profiles.
Specifically, low testosterone can increase LDL (bad cholesterol) and decrease HDL (good cholesterol). High levels of LDL can clog arteries and raise the risk of heart disease, whereas HDL helps remove bad cholesterol from the bloodstream.
Monitoring and managing testosterone levels can help maintain healthy cholesterol levels and promote heart health. Keeping testosterone at healthy levels supports a better balance between LDL and HDL, which is crucial for reducing the risk of cardiovascular problems.
How to Determine If I Have Low Testosterone Levels
Regular self-examinations and staying vigilant about changes in your body can be crucial in identifying possible health issues, including low testosterone. If you're experiencing symptoms such as chronic fatigue, reduced libido, and mood swings or noticeable physical changes like reduced muscle mass or increased body fat, it might be time to consider checking your testosterone levels. Here are a few steps you can take to determine if your testosterone is low:
Self-Monitoring for Symptoms
No one knows your mind and body like you do. Pay close attention to your body and how you feel on a day-to-day basis.
Document any persistent symptoms such as fatigue, low energy, depression, or decreased sexual desire. Noting these changes over time can help provide a clear picture of your overall health.
It's also important to perform regular self-exams to check for physical signs such as testicular atrophy, where the testicles may shrink or feel smaller than average. These self-checks can be a valuable tool in recognizing early signs of hormonal imbalances.
Consult a Healthcare Professional
If you've noticed any symptoms, the next step is to consult with a healthcare professional. A doctor can conduct a thorough examination and review your medical history. They will likely ask about your symptoms, lifestyle, and any other health conditions you may have.
Based on this initial consultation, they may recommend blood tests to measure your testosterone levels. These tests are usually conducted in the morning when testosterone levels are at their peak.
Also, don’t ignore your mental health. Dealing with low testosterone and its symptoms can weigh heavily on your mental state. Speak to a professional to help you work through the frustration, confusion, embarrassment, or fear that comes with low testosterone levels.
Undergo Blood Tests
Blood tests are the most definitive way to diagnose low testosterone. The tests will measure your total testosterone levels as well as free testosterone. Free testosterone is especially important to test, as it is the hormone available for the body to use.
Sometimes, additional tests may be needed to check for related hormones or factors that could be affecting your testosterone levels. To ensure accurate results, it’s essential to follow your doctor’s instructions regarding preparation for these tests, such as fasting.
Explore Treatment Options
If your blood tests confirm low testosterone, your doctor will discuss potential treatment options with you. Treatment may involve lifestyle changes, such as improving diet and exercise habits, or medical interventions like testosterone replacement therapy (TRT).
TRT can help restore your hormone levels to normal and alleviate many of the symptoms associated with low testosterone. It’s important to have ongoing conversations with your healthcare provider to monitor your progress and make adjustments to your treatment plan as needed.
How to Improve Testosterone Levels Naturally
Maintaining healthy testosterone levels is crucial for overall well-being, energy, and fertility. Fortunately, there are several natural methods to support your body's testosterone production. Here are a few ways to keep your testosterone levels up naturally.
Diet and Exercise
One of the fundamental steps is adopting a balanced diet rich in essential nutrients. Foods high in zinc, vitamin D, and healthy fats, such as lean meats, fish, nuts, seeds, and leafy greens, can play a vital role in boosting testosterone levels.
Regular exercise is also important. Be sure to add in strength training and high-intensity interval training (HIIT). These forms of exercise are ideal for maintaining muscle mass while keeping body weight down.
Lower Your Exposure to EDCs
Another significant aspect to consider is reducing exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) such as bisphenols, phthalates, parabens, and oxybenzone. These chemicals are found in many everyday products like plastics, personal care items, and sunscreens.
EDCs can mimic hormones in the body, fitting into hormone receptors in a "lock and key" manner and disrupting normal testosterone function. This hormonal imbalance can lead to decreased testosterone levels. To minimize exposure, eat and drink from glass and stainless steel containers, shop for fragrance-free products, and reduce your plastic use altogether.
Testing yourself for these toxic chemicals is a proactive step towards maintaining healthy testosterone levels, especially if you're trying to conceive. Million Marker's Detect & Detox Test Kit is the perfect, personalized tool for identifying the presence of harmful chemicals in your body.
By knowing your toxicant levels, you can take targeted actions to detoxify your system. Detoxification may include lifestyle changes, such as consuming organic foods, increasing fiber intake, staying hydrated, and sweating out toxins through regular physical activity and sauna sessions.
In addition to dietary and lifestyle adjustments, managing stress is crucial for supporting healthy testosterone levels. Chronic stress increases the production of cortisol, a hormone that negatively impacts testosterone production.
Techniques such as mindfulness meditation, deep breathing exercises, and adequate sleep can help reduce stress and promote hormonal balance. By combining these natural methods and staying vigilant about environmental toxins, you can effectively support and maintain healthy testosterone levels, enhancing your overall health and vitality.
Resources
[1] https://academic.oup.com/jsm/article-abstract/8/11/2993/6966878
[2] https://www.amjmed.com/article/S0002-9343%2806%2900689-9/fulltext
[3] https://www.healthline.com/health/mens-health/average-testicle-size
[4] https://acsjournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1002/cncr.22339
[5] https://academic.oup.com/jcem/article/93/7/2602/2598749
[6] https://www.nature.com/articles/s43856-022-00140-5
[7] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7867125/
[8] https://academic.oup.com/biomedgerontology/article/69/6/725/527925
[9] https://academic.oup.com/jcem/article/93/5/1834/2598879