Low testosterone levels are common in men as they age. While this is a natural progression of the aging process, certain adverse conditions can occur as a result of low testosterone in men that can have consequences for men’s health. However, testosterone levels can also be lowered as a result of genetic defect or cancer, both of which may interfere with how testosterone is naturally produced in the pituitary gland. Here are some common low testosterone symptoms in men as a result of either aging, illness or genetic defect.

Image by WarmSleepy via Flickr

Low Sex Drive – One of the most common complaints many men voice as they age is a reduced sex drive. This is mainly due to decreased levels of testosterone in the body. This male hormone is important for furthering sexual development but it is also vital for driving sexual desire and sexual appetite. Reduced levels of testosterone often correspond to reduced levels of sexual desire. This can further be compounded by lifestyle choices, such as poor diet, or reduced physical fitness due to aging.

Erectile Dysfunction – Another symptom of reduced testosterone due to aging is erectile dysfunction. Men often have more difficulty achieving and holding an erection due to reduced levels of the male sex hormone testosterone.

Improperly Formed Genitals – Arising mainly through having not enough testosterone during development, a man may have poorly formed genitals as he transitions from a child into an adult. The pituitary gland sometimes does not produce adequate amounts of testosterone, causing genitals that are either misshapen or too small. Doses of testosterone may correct this and cause the genitals to form properly or this may be an indication of an intersex child, in which case consultations are necessary to address which, if any, sex the child wishes the identify as.

Fatigue – Not only is testosterone a male sex hormone, it is also a promoter of physical activity and growth. Lacking testosterone, a man may find himself incapable of previous physical feats or unexpectedly tired or fatigued after moderate physical activity.

Sleep Disturbances – Any change in hormone levels often disrupt the body’s natural cycles and rhythms. This can range from poor sleep quality to insomnia. While medication can help address poor sleep and insomnia these can often be risky and become habit forming.

Moodiness – Picking back up on hormonal imbalances, lacking sufficient amounts of testosterone can disrupt a man’s mood and may also cause other mental health issues such as depression, sadness and loneliness.

Reduced Muscle Mass – Low testosterone can also reduce muscle mass as this hormone acts as a muscle growing agent. Often some professional athletes abuse testosterone supplements to gain extra muscle. However, this can lead to drastic health risks and legal action.

Low levels of testosterone in men can be addressed through a number of treatments, such as gels, patches and pills to artificially boost levels. Furthermore, should the pituitary gland be affected by tumors, thereby reducing testosterone levels, treatment strategies can be enacted to remove these growths, bringing testosterone to normal levels.  By recognizing low testosterone symptoms in men can help to catch any problems early so it is important to study these symptoms so that you can be aware.