8 Signs You May Have a Testosterone Deficiency

Testosterone production declines naturally as men age, but sometimes levels drop abnormally low. What’s more, it can occur earlier than you think. Did you know that 25% of men over age 30 and close to 40% of men over age 45 have testosterone deficiency? That number goes up significantly for men over age 65.

Inadequate testosterone levels can have a major impact on your physical health, mental health, and overall quality of life. The good news is testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) can restore your levels to normal and improve your symptoms.

If you suspect your testosterone levels are off, TRT specialist Gordon Hart can perform a simple blood test to determine your levels. At Balance Hormone Center in Norman, Oklahoma, Hart treats men with hormonal imbalances using bioidentical hormones that mimic the ones your body produces. Many men report feeling better within weeks of initiating treatment. If you have any of the following eight warning signs, you may have low testosterone.

No. 1: Low libido

Sagging testosterone levels can cause a reduced interest in sex and lower your ability to have a gratifying sex life. Testosterone plays a key role in a man’s sex drive, and while testosterone isn’t the only thing that influences libido, men with low testosterone are more likely to report a loss of sexual desire.

No. 2: Decreased energy

A slump in testosterone levels can cause you to feel tired and worn out. If you’ve noticed that you don’t have the energy and motivation you used to, it may be time to check your testosterone levels.

No. 3: Mood problems

While everyone experiences fluctuations in mood, a consistent low mood can be a sign that your body isn’t producing enough testosterone. If your levels are too low, you may feel grumpy, stressed, and even depressed.

No. 4: Weight gain

Low testosterone levels can cause an increase in body fat. This is especially true in the midsection due to the influence of testosterone on where your body stores fat. If your testosterone levels are inadequate, you may notice that you’ve gained weight without changing your eating habits. Men with testosterone deficiency commonly experience significant and sustained weight loss when they receive testosterone replacement therapy.

No. 5: Erectile dysfunction

Testosterone is involved in triggering the release of nitric oxide, a simple, yet important molecule that increases blood flow and expands blood vessels. When testosterone levels are low, you may experience problems getting or maintaining an erection. Testosterone replacement therapy can help reduce erectile dysfunction. Men who receive TRT generally report an overall improvement in sexual function and satisfaction.  

No. 6: Trouble sleeping

If you toss and turn at night, low testosterone levels could be the reason why. Testosterone influences a wide range of processes in your body, and adequate levels are required for restful sleep. Men who fail to produce enough testosterone report more trouble sleeping. The good news is TRT may improve your quality of sleep.

No. 7: Reduced muscle mass

Testosterone is a key factor in developing and maintaining muscle mass in men, and a reduction in muscle mass may be a warning sign of testosterone deficiency. Not only do you need adequate testosterone to build and maintain muscles, you need it for strength and muscle function. If you’ve noticed you’ve gotten weaker in the gym, it might not be your imagination. Restoring your testosterone levels with TRT can help you rebuild and maintain lost muscle mass.

No. 8: Problems concentrating

Testosterone deficiency can have more than a physical impact. It can also affect your ability to concentrate. Men with low testosterone are more likely to experience memory problems and have difficulty focusing. This can impact your work performance as well as your ability to accomplish everyday tasks. Fortunately, TRT has helped many men restore their cognitive abilities.

Growing older doesn’t have to mean putting up with uncomfortable symptoms. Men everywhere are discovering the benefits of TRT. For more information, schedule an appointment online or over the phone with Balance Hormone Center today.