Low Testosterone Symptoms & The Stigma That Comes With Them
As men age, many of them will experience low testosterone levels which present as lower energy levels, erectile dysfunction, reduced muscle mass and a diminished sex drive. It is understandable that the majority of men would feel uncomfortable discussing the symptoms that are associated with low testosterone as it reflects the current state of their masculinity. We hope to help break down the stigma with low testosterone and show that these symptoms are common–that you are not alone.
Low Testosterone & Confidence Levels
For most men, their confidence is directly tied to their strength, energy, and sexuality. Any sign or hint that those confidence factors are waning is frightening and can lead to a decreased self-worth and/or depression which is another sign of low testosterone. When men are confronted with an inevitable problem such as decreasing testosterone levels as we age, it is often easier to just not talk bout it and go about life as though nothing is wrong.
This reluctance to talk about the signs and symptoms of low T is a social problem that presents men with a blemish on their man-card. It is the reduced level of communication around these issues has led to a large degree of under-diagnosed patients. Many men don’t seek professional help and may not know that it is actually lower levels of testosterone causing their symptoms. These individuals may seek help with ineffective over-the-counter medications, gimmicky online solutions, or current fads.
How it Can Affect Our Mood
To add to the difficulty is that until recently, low levels have typically only been associated with a decrease in sex drive. Lower levels of testosterone can definitely cause emotional side effects. Loss of libido or erectile dysfunction can cause problems in relationships and self-esteem. Another problem we see is with men who are feeling depressed. Often, men will begin being treated for clinical depression, when the cause of their depressed mood is actually low levels of testosterone.
A 2013 review (link below) of seven clinical trials involving 355 people published in the journal Psychosomatics looked at the effect of low testosterone on mood. The researchers found that men are likely to feel depressed, anxious, and irritable because of low testosterone. It was also found that low testosterone could be the underlying cause of unexplained depression. The same review also demonstrated that testosterone therapy can overcome feelings associated with low testosterone such as depression.
Read about it here: The Effect of Testosterone Levels on Mood in Men: A Review
Losing Testosterone is Common & Natural
It is important to remember that with all the symptoms of low T, men should not be alarmed. This is a completely natural process and not an unusual condition. This is also a condition that can be treated safely, effectively, and at a rate that doesn’t cause men to reach deep into their pockets.
The chances of a man having lower testosterone levels in the later years of his life are very high. It is important that with education and communication men are aware of the possibility and do not become embarrassed with their reality.
It is important to remember that age is such a strong factor and that the degree to which you may experience it is directly related to your age. Low testosterone rarely affects men who are younger than 30 though it is possible with the potential of trauma and genetic defects. It is after the age of 30 that the chance of experiencing symptoms gradually increases.
For the purposes of education and understanding, approximately:
- 30% of men age 50 experience symptoms
- 50% percent of men age 60 experience symptoms
- 70% percent of men age 70 experience symptoms
The symptoms of low testosterone include, but are not limited to:
- Low energy/fatigue
- Erectile dysfunction
- Loss of muscle mass/reduced strength
- Depression
- Decreased or diminished libido/sex drive
- Reduced bone density
- Low red blood cell concentration
The good news is that whatever the cause may be, Hormone Replacement Therapy is here for you to bring your testosterone level back to an optimal range. We are always adding new patients to our wellness family.
To get started with our hormone replacement program, we start with a simple blood draw. This will determine where your hormones are compared to the healthy range. Our providers then meet with you in a one-on-one consultation to discuss your symptoms and create a plan. Please fill out our online consultation form to start, and we will contact you to schedule the blood draw. We look forward to having you in.
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