Understanding Low Testosterone: What You Need to Know

Low testosterone, often called "Low T," affects two to four million men in the U.S., with prevalence increasing with age. While up to 38% of the population may experience testosterone deficiency, only 5% of affected men receive treatment¹. Though commonly associated with aging, low testosterone can impact individuals of all ages and significantly affect overall health.

What is Testosterone?

Testosterone is the primary male sex hormone, produced mainly in the testicles. It plays a crucial role in:

• Developing male physical characteristics
• Maintaining muscle mass and strength
• Supporting bone density
• Regulating sex drive and erectile function
• Influencing mood and energy levels

Defining Low Testosterone

Low testosterone, or male hypogonadism, occurs when the body doesn't produce enough of this essential hormone. The American Urology Association considers testosterone levels below 300 nanograms per deciliter (ng/dL) to be low, although some experts argue that levels under 250 ng/dL are more indicative of the condition.²

Common Symptoms

Recognizing the signs of low testosterone is crucial for early detection and treatment. Common symptoms include:

• Erectile dysfunction
• Decreased libido
• Decreased energy
• Loss of muscle mass
• Increased waist circumference
• Decreased exercise tolerance
• Cognitive changes
• Mood changes or depression
• Mild anemia
• Osteoporosis

These symptoms can also be caused by other health conditions, so a proper medical evaluation is necessary.¹

Causes of Low Testosterone

Low testosterone can result from various factors:

Primary Hypogonadism: The testicles are unable to produce sufficient testosterone. Causes may include:

• Genetic conditions (e.g., Klinefelter syndrome)
• Testicular injuries or infections
• Chemotherapy or radiation treatment

Secondary Hypogonadism: Problems with the hypothalamus or pituitary gland, which regulate testosterone production. Causes may include:

• Pituitary disorders
• HIV/AIDS
• Obesity
• Certain medications

Diagnosis and Treatment

If you suspect low testosterone, consult a healthcare provider. Diagnosing low testosterone involves a medical history, physical exam, and blood tests to measure hormone levels, as these fluctuate throughout the day. Your results will help your urologist identify any contributing medical conditions and create a personalized treatment plan.

Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT)

If diagnosed with low testosterone, your urologist may recommend TRT, which can:

• Increase energy and sex drive
• Improve erectile function
• Increase muscle mass and bone density
• Alleviate depression and fatigue

TRT can be administered in several ways:

• Skin patches: Applied daily for 24-hour delivery
• Testosterone gel: Applied daily to the shoulders, upper arms, thighs, underarm, or intranasal area
• Intramuscular injection: Short-acting doses every 1-2 weeks or long-acting doses every 10 weeks
• Subcutaneous injections: Self-administered weekly with an auto-injector
• Oral medication: Taken once or twice daily, delivering consistent testosterone levels safely

Understanding low testosterone is the first step in addressing this hormonal imbalance. If you're experiencing symptoms or have concerns about your testosterone levels, speak with a healthcare professional. With proper diagnosis and treatment, many men with low testosterone can see significant improvements in their overall health and well-being.

Resources

1.) Chesapeake Urology. Low Testosterone. Available at Low Testosterone | United Urology

2.) Cleveland Clinic. Low Testosterone (Low T): Causes, Symptoms, & Treatment. Available Low Testosterone (Low T): Causes, Symptoms & Treatment (clevelandclinic.org)