Our editors carefully select every product. If you buy from a link, we may earn a commission. Learn More.

Common Side Effects Of Low Testosterone In Men

Man in bed

Low testosterone is a common problem in many men as they pass the age of 30. This condition can lead to a variety of side effects that impact appearance and function. Among the known causes for low testosterone levels include aging, thyroid disorders, diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, smoking, excessive alcohol consumption and high stress. Side effects of low testosterone can be mild or severe, and they can be helped with treatment by your doctor. Common symptoms of low-T include the following:

Decrease in Energy

Individuals with low-T often report feeling unusually tired and sluggish. This is usually a change from their normal energy levels and may be a cause for concern. If you find yourself feeling unusually fatigued and reluctant to exercise, it may be because of the effects of low-T.

Reduced Muscle Mass

You may notice that the muscles of your body no longer seem as large or are as easy to strengthen as previously. This can mean a change in your body shape, although the strength of muscles is generally not affected by the change in mass.

Increased Weight and Increased Body Fat

Men may notice they put on weight more easily. The fat on their body may distribute somewhat differently. They may experience greater amounts of fat distributed in the breast area. This effect occurs because testosterone is involved in regulating a number of body functions. When sufficient testosterone is unavailable, normal processes slow down.

Hot Flashes

Men with low-T may experience sudden incidents of feeling very hot and sweaty, without any change in ambient temperature. This is similar to the hot flashes that occur in women when hormone levels begin to decline during menopause. The feeling is not only uncomfortable, but can also lead to social embarrassment. Your physician can prescribe TRT to help reduce the incidence of hot flashes.

Hair Loss

Decreased hormone levels can also cause hair loss. In the body, testosterone is converted into dihydrotestosterone, which can affect hair follicles and the growth of hair. When hormone levels are out of balance increased hair loss can result. You should discuss with your doctor whether testosterone replacement therapy can help.

Low Energy

Another symptom of low-T is a decrease in energy. You may find that you tire more easily or find that normal sleep and rest periods don’t replenish your energy as they previously did. This effect can cause you to feel older than you are and less able to keep up with normal life demands. Testosterone replacement therapy, TRT, can help individuals have greater energy reserves.

Sleep Problems

A related side effect of low testosterone is changes in sleep patterns. You may find it difficult to fall asleep or may wake during the night. This can lead to daytime fatigue and poor performance during the daylight hours.

Mood Swings

Some men with low levels of testosterone begin to feel depressed or may become irritable with others. Others find difficulty with concentration and focus during the day. Frequent mood swings can be a very disturbing side effect of low testosterone levels. These symptoms can be helped with TRT.

Erectile Dysfunction

Low-T also causes problems with erections in men. The hormone testosterone produces the nitric acid in the body that sustains erections. When testosterone levels are too low, men may have difficulty achieving or sustaining an erection. However, other factors may also be involved in erectile dysfunction, such as high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol levels, thyroid conditions, smoking, excessive alcohol consumption and chronic stress.

Decrease in Volume of Semen

Semen is the fluid that makes up the male ejaculate. It is necessary for carrying sperm to the egg to conceive a child. Men may notice a decrease in the volume of the semen during ejaculation that could be one of the symptoms of low-T. A physician can do testing to determine if testosterone levels are within the normal range.

Low-T can have a significant impact on men’s quality of life. Fortunately, treatment of low testosterone levels is available. Finding a physician with experience in providing therapy for low-t leaves is your first step in achieving relief from these troublesome symptoms. 

For more information on low testosterone and to search for a testosterone therapy in your city, visit Ehormones.com. Ehormones MD has 30 testosterone therapy clinics nationwide that may be able to help you find relief from low-T.

What do you think?

Written by Mark Greene

Mark Greene is writer and life coach dedicated to helping men to perform at peak level. He shares dating advice, style tips and strategies for building wealth and success.