Symptoms of low T
Some advertisements for testosterone replacement products may lead you to believe that simply feeling tired or cranky is a sign of low T. In reality, symptoms tend to be more involved than that. Regardless of your age, low T symptoms can include:
- Erectile dysfunction, or problems developing or maintaining an erection
- Other changes in your erections, such as fewer spontaneous erections
- Decreased libido or sexual activity
- Infertility
- Rapid hair loss
- Reduced muscle mass
- Increased body fat
- Enlarged breasts
- Sleep disturbances
- Persistent fatigue
- Brain fog
- Depression
Many of these symptoms can also be caused by other medical conditions or lifestyle factors. If you’re experiencing them, make an appointment with your doctor. They can help you identify the underlying cause and recommend a treatment plan.
Causes of low T in young men
Low T is less common among men under 30, but it can still occur. Contributing factors include:
- High cholesterol levels
- High blood pressure
- Being overweight or obese
- Drinking excessive amounts of alcohol
- Using illegal drugs
- Using anabolic steroids
- Taking certain prescription medications such as steroids and opiates, especially in excess
- Some cases of low T may be linked to other medical conditions, such as:
- Hypothalamic or pituitary disease or tumors
- Injuries, tumors, or other conditions affecting your testicles including inflammation related to childhood mumps
- Inherited diseases, such as Kallman’s syndrome, Prader-Willi syndrome, Klinefelter syndrome, or Down syndrome
- Diabetes, liver disease, or AIDS
- Cancer treatments such as radiation and chemotherapy
Solutions about your low T
If you suspect that you might have low T, make an appointment with your doctor. They can use a simple blood test to determine your testosterone level.
If your doctor finds that your testosterone level is lower than normal, they may order additional tests or do an exam to investigate why. Your treatment plan will depend on your diagnosis and medical history. Your doctor may recommend lifestyle changes or testosterone replacement therapy.
You should always talk to your doctor before taking new medications, including testosterone replacement therapy and supplements. According to research published in PLOSOne, testosterone therapy may increase your risk of heart attack, particularly if you already have heart disease. Your doctor can help you understand the potential benefits and risks of different treatment options.