Recent research suggests that 1 out of 4 men over 30 have low testosterone, but only 1 out of 20 men show clinical symptoms linked to low testosterone.
Although the biggest symptom men notice first is the affect on their sex, there are many other conditions that are common as well like high blood pressure, high cholesterol and obesity. In addition to that, low testosterone can increase the risk for type 2 diabetes.
We’ve got 10 warning signs to look out for if you suspect you might have low testosterone. If you do think you have low T, it is always best to consult with your doctor.
1. Decreased Sex Drive / Libido
The most obvious sign of low testosterone is a sudden decrease in sexual drive. Keep in mind though that libido can vary from man to man. What may be low for one man may not be for another. Low testosterone is one of the causes of low libido.
2. Erectile Dysfunction
It is estimated that at least 30 million men suffer from erectile dysfunction, and that low testosterone could be one of the causes. Erection problems are usually caused by atherosclerosis which is a hardening of the arteries. The main causes of atherosclerosis and erectile dysfunction are diabetes, high blood pressure, smoking, and high cholesterol. Low testosterone is frequently connected with atherosclerosis in causing erectile dysfunction.
3. Overweight
Fat cells convert testosterone to estrogen, which then in turn decreases circulation for testosterone. So, being overweight can negatively impact your testosterone levels. And while being overweight does affect testosterone levels, it is unclear whether this weight gain is due to the low testosterone or if testosterone is low because they are overweight.
4. Fatigue
Low energy is one of the many side effects of low testosterone. If you are exhausted by lunch or you find it hard to get motivated to do anything you could be suffering from low testosterone.
5. Insomnia
Low testosterone can cause men to suffer from insomnia, but on top of that it is also known be to be associated with obstructive sleep apnea. Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder affecting more that 18 million people in the United States alone. Sleep apnea can lead to high blood pressure, heart disease and mood and memory problems.
While low testosterone doesn’t directly cause sleep apnea – many men who have sleep apnea are overweight, which can lead to low testosterone.
6. Concentration
Testosterone plays a big role in focus for men. So naturally when testosterone levels are low, men can experience trouble concentrating, memory problems, and even brain fog.
7. Depression
Although it is still unclear the link between testosterone and depression, researchers have found that me who suffer from depression also suffer from low testosterone.
When men go through testosterone therapy, usually they will see an improvement in their depression. Researchers have found that it is more effective than the anti depressants.
8. Breasts
When men have low testosterone, it causes the estrogen and testosterone ration to be unbalanced. This can cause men to develop breast tissue, which is also called gynecomastia.
9. Pain
Another side effect of low testosterone is decreased muscle mass and strength. When men experience this, they can feel joint pain, muscle aches and also be more susceptible to injury.
10. Bone Issues
Usually osteoporosis only affects women, however it can become an issue with men when they have low testosterone because it decreases bone density.
If you suspect you have low testosterone, be sure to call us! We can help you get your life back!
