What Does it Feel Like to Have Low Testosterone?

How Does it Feel For a Man When He Has Low T?

Understanding Low Testosterone (Male Hypogonadism) in Men

A common question we hear is “What does Low T feel like?” or “How do I know if I have Low Testosterone levels?” Low testosterone, also known as male hypogonadism, is a prevalent issue among men, often accompanied by subtle signs and symptoms that may go unnoticed, or due to the gradual nature of Low T slowly manifesting it’s symptoms over time, men may ignore and accept it as their “new normal.” This condition arises when the testicles fail to produce sufficient testosterone, the hormone crucial for various bodily functions and the main sex hormone in men. Causes can range from testicular conditions or injuries to disruptions in the pituitary gland or hypothalamus. However, low testosterone is manageable through testosterone replacement therapy.

Testosterone, a hormone present in both men and women, holds particular importance in males, influencing muscle mass development, libido, and sperm production. With age, testosterone levels naturally decline, leading to changes in overall health. Understanding testosterone levels and their assessment is key to addressing concerns regarding this vital hormone. Dr. Mackey, the medical director of NovaGenix Health and Wellness often treats patients with low T and factors in not just testosterone levels but the signs and symptoms associated with sub-optimal hormone levels in men.

Testosterone levels vary throughout life, from fetal development to adulthood. Doctors typically measure testosterone levels using a blood test, indicating the total amount of testosterone in nanograms per deciliter (ng/dL). While testosterone is mostly bound to a protein called sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG) in the blood, another test measures "free" testosterone, albeit with less accuracy.

Diagnosing testosterone deficiency requires age-specific reference ranges, as testosterone levels vary with age. Integration of age-specific norms into evaluation procedures is crucial, especially for young men presenting with symptoms of testosterone deficiency. So, what does it feel like to have Low T? What are some of the signs of Low Testosterone?

 

What Does Low T Feel Like? Recognizing Signs of Low Testosterone:

1.   Sleep Disturbances: Low testosterone levels can disrupt sleep patterns, causing insomnia and restlessness.

2.   Changes in Sex Drive: Decreased libido and erectile dysfunction may indicate low testosterone levels. However, other underlying medical conditions can also contribute to these symptoms.

3.   Fatigue: A common effect of low testosterone is persistent fatigue, leaving individuals feeling drained and lacking energy. Adequate sleep and lifestyle adjustments can help alleviate this symptom.

4.   Cognitive Impairment: Mental focus and memory may decline with low testosterone levels, leading to difficulties in concentration and forgetfulness.

5.   Mood Changes: Low testosterone can contribute to mood swings, depression, or a general sense of unhappiness. Stress management techniques and lifestyle modifications may help alleviate these symptoms.

6.   Declined Work Performance: Decreased focus, mood issues, and low energy levels can impact professional performance, making it challenging to stay productive at work.

7.   Changes in Body Composition: Low testosterone can lead to an increase in body fat and a decrease in muscle mass, affecting overall physique and strength.

8.   Muscle Changes: Reduced testosterone levels result in decreased muscle mass and strength, affecting exercise performance and fitness outcomes.

9.   Bone Health: Low testosterone has been associated with osteoporosis, a condition characterized by weakened bones. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise and a balanced diet, can support bone health.

10. Hair Loss: Thinning of body hair, including facial, pubic, and limb hair, may occur with low testosterone levels.

Understanding typical testosterone levels by age is crucial for identifying abnormalities and potential health concerns. Reference charts provide a range of normal testosterone levels for different age groups, aiding in diagnosis and treatment decisions.

Average Total Testosterone levels in children and adolescents

Age	Male (in ng/dl)	Female (in ng/dl)
7–10 years old	1.80 to 5.68	2.69 to 10.29
13–17 years old	208.08 to 496.58	16.72 to 31.55

Average Total Testosterone levels in adults

Testosterone levels change throughout a person’s lifetime. The combination of actual testosterone levels plus the assessment of signs and symptoms from a physician can help determine if you have low T. To test for Low T, a simple online questionnaire called the ADAM test can help you determine if Low T is a possibility. We often compare ourselves to others, but the average testosterone level in men has a wide range and there are multiple variables that come into play, when determining treatment options.  Below are average total testosterone levels in Males and Females and age specific levels with can offer more appropriate and guided insight.

Age	Male (in ng/dl)	Female (in ng/dl)
19 years and older	265–923	15–70

 

Age-specific middle average levels in men were:

·        409-558 ng/dL (20-24 years old),

·        413-575 ng/dL (25-29 years old),

·        359-498 ng/dL (30-34 years old),

·        352-478 ng/dL (35-39 years old),

·        350-473 ng/dL (40-44 years old).

Abnormal testosterone levels can result from various health conditions, medications, or injuries. While decreased testosterone levels may affect sex drive, mood, and muscle mass, increased levels can indicate underlying health issues like androgen resistance or hormonal imbalances.

It’s important to understand that recognizing the signs and symptoms of low testosterone is essential for timely intervention and management. Through proper diagnosis and treatment, individuals experiencing low testosterone levels can improve their overall health and quality of life with treatment such as TRT. Consulting a healthcare professional for accurate assessment and personalized treatment recommendations is paramount in addressing concerns related to testosterone deficiency.