Low Testosterone: Symptoms, Causes, and When to See a Doctor

Alanbatnews -

Men experiencing symptoms such as decreased libido, erectile dysfunction, and fatigue should consult a doctor to check their testosterone levels, medical experts advise.

Testosterone levels naturally decline with age, but a significant drop can indicate a health issue requiring medical intervention, according to Dr. Jan-Frederik Kremer from the Department of Andrology at the University Hospital of Münster, Germany.

Several factors can accelerate this decline, including obesity, lack of physical activity, chronic stress, type 2 diabetes, and disorders of the pituitary gland or testicles, Kremer noted.

Symptoms of low testosterone include:

• Decreased libido
• Erectile dysfunction
• Reduced bone density (osteoporosis)
• Sleep disturbances
• Excessive sweating
• Persistent fatigue

Experts recommend lifestyle modifications as a first step before considering medication. These include adopting a balanced diet, engaging in regular exercise, losing weight, quitting smoking, and reducing stress.

A blood test, ideally performed in the morning when testosterone levels are at their peak, can diagnose low testosterone.

If diagnosed with low testosterone, testosterone replacement therapy may be recommended under close medical supervision, with regular monitoring to avoid potential side effects such as an increased risk of heart problems or prostate enlargement.

Early diagnosis and proper management of symptoms can improve quality of life and prevent long-term complications, particularly those related to bone and heart health, doctors emphasize.