Understanding Low Testosterone: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Low testosterone refers to a condition where the body doesn't produce enough of this hormone. It can lead to various symptoms affecting physical and mental health.
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Hormones | Endocrinology | Men's Health | Hormone Imbalance | Testosterone Therapy
Prepared by Nick Harper, reviewed by Dr. David James Simpson

Low Testosterone FAQ


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What does low testosterone mean?

Low testosterone is when testosterone levels fall below 300 ng/dL. A blood test called a serum testosterone test can determine your testosterone level. Other tests may be performed to determine the cause of low testosterone. How is low T treated? Testosterone replacement therapy is a common treatment for low testosterone.

What is low testosterone (male hypogonadism)?

Low testosterone (male hypogonadism) is a condition in which your testicles don’t produce enough testosterone (the male sex hormone ). Testicles are the gonads (sex organs) in people assigned male at birth (AMAB). More specifically, the Leydig cells in your testicles make testosterone. Low testosterone causes different symptoms at different ages.

What causes low testosterone in males?

Low testosterone in males can occur with aging or due to some health conditions. It can affect different body systems, resulting in symptoms that affect memory, mood, bone and muscle, sex drive, and the ability to get or maintain an erection. What are the signs of low testosterone in males?

Is low testosterone a male problem?

While testosterone may be used to treat women, low levels of testosterone (also known as low T or hypogonadism) is considered a male problem, according to a 2019 review. Depending on the cause and age when low T first appears, symptoms can differ. Younger males should watch out for:

Do males have low testosterone levels?

Some males have low testosterone levels. This is referred to as hypogonadism , testosterone deficiency syndrome (TD), low testosterone (Low-T), or andropause . The American Urology Association (AUA) defines hypogonadism as total testosterone level of less than 300 nanograms per deciliter (ng/dL).

What are the symptoms of low testosterone?

Some of the most apparent symptoms of low testosterone could include ED, lowered sex drive, depression, difficulties focusing on tasks, and an increase in body weight. More long-term symptoms that might develop from untreated low testosterone levels could be a loss of muscle mass and a condition that weakens your bones known as osteoporosis.

Low Testosterone References

If you want to know more about Low Testosterone, consider exploring links below:

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