Signs of Low Testosterone in Men
Testosterone hormone (the T-hormone) is produced in men and women, along with some animals. Men have a higher percentage of the hormone, but it is helpful in both sexes to keep body functions balanced. In men, testicles make most of the testosterone, while small amounts are produced from the ovaries in women. The endocrine system monitors the body’s hormone levels, sending signals to organs to produce more testosterone when needed. Also, the adrenal glands in men and women contribute to its production.
When T-hormone levels are low, men experience many symptoms. However, most are subtle, making it difficult to notice unless you seek medical help. If you need to improve your muscle mass, you can read this Aphro-D article to know how to use the testosterone hormone for your benefits.
Below are the signs of low testosterone in men:
Difficulty with Erection
Besides stimulating male sex drive, testosterone also helps to achieve and maintain an erection. However, the hormone alone does not cause an erection, despite stimulating the brain receptors to produce nitric oxide.
Nitric oxide helps to trigger a series of reactions that are necessary for an erection to occur. When T levels are low, the man will have difficulty achieving erections or experience spontaneous erections. Testosterone is just one of the many factors that facilitate adequate erections.
General Fatigue
While everyone might feel exhausted, a low level of testosterone can cause a general feeling of fatigue. In reality, many men have visited doctors complaining of extreme tiredness and decreased energy only to find that it was related to hormones. So if you get 8 hours of sleep daily, yet you are tired and find it hard to get motivation for exercise, you need to talk to your doctor for a testosterone levels checkup.
Reduced Muscle Mass
Because testosterone helps in building muscles, men with low levels might notice decreased muscle mass. Although T affects muscle mass, it does not necessarily improve function or strength. Reduced testosterone levels also lead to an increase in body fat. Specifically, it can lead to the enlargement of breast tissues. It happens as a result of an imbalance between estrogen hormone and testosterone in men.
Poor Memory
Although both cognitive functions and testosterone levels decline with age, doctors believe that lower T levels can lead to reduced memory. According to the American medical association, there is a link between testosterone supplementation and improved memory in men who had lower levels. Also, men with low T levels experience mood changes. This is because the T hormone influences many processes, that include mental capacity and mood.
