As we age, we begin to experience many different changes to our bodies and health. For men, one of these significant changes is a reduction in testosterone, which can lead to unwanted symptoms. But how can you tell if you are enduring regular changes or if they are a result of low testosterone? And if they are a result of low testosterone, when should you treat it?
Look for these five signs to determine if the changes you are experiencing are a result of low testosterone.
1. Fatigue
It is natural to feel less energy as you get older, but always feeling sluggish throughout the day could be a sign of low testosterone. You will experience chronic fatigue if you have low testosterone, meaning even if you sleep well at night, you won’t feel well rested.
2. Decreased Muscle Mass
With chronic fatigue also comes a lack of physical activity, which means you won’t be using your muscles as much. On the other hand, if you are still hitting those regular workouts and not seeing any gains, this is another sign of low testosterone.
3. Sexual Dysfunction
Your sexual organs may not be working as they did. This could cause difficulty in becoming aroused or difficulty maintaining an erection. Sexual dysfunction can also be a sign of heart problems, so you should see your doctor to detect any other underlying issues.
4. Increased Body Fat
Notice your chest is getting a bit larger? Breast enlargement in men, known as gynecomastia, is a result of a hormonal imbalance and low testosterone.
5. Mood Changes
If you begin to experience greater depressive symptoms, it could be a result of low testosterone. Testosterone plays a significant role in our mood, so if you’re feeling more down than up, disinterested in things you once loved, or are more irritable, it could be time you check your testosterone levels.
Any changes noted in your health should be discussed with your doctor to determine the cause. There are often very easy fixes for many issues, especially low T, so you don’t need to suffer from it.
Mohan Garikiparithi got his degree in medicine from Osmania University (University of Health Sciences). He practiced clinical medicine for over a decade before he shifted his focus to the field of health communications. This article was first published on BelMarraHealth.com
