Low Testosterone: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment Options
Testosterone levels naturally decline with age — typically by about 1–2% per year after age 30. But for some men, levels drop low enough to cause noticeable symptoms that affect daily life.
Testosterone levels naturally decline with age — typically by about 1–2% per year after age 30. But for some men, levels drop low enough to cause noticeable symptoms that affect daily life.
Common symptoms of low testosterone
Low testosterone (also called low T or hypogonadism) can cause fatigue, reduced sex drive, erectile dysfunction, mood changes, depression, difficulty concentrating, reduced muscle mass, increased body fat, and sleep problems.
How is it diagnosed?
Low testosterone is diagnosed through a blood test measuring total (and sometimes free) testosterone levels, typically taken in the morning when levels are highest. A provider also considers your symptoms and overall health.
Treatment options
Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) is the primary treatment. It's available in several forms — injections, topical gels, patches, and pellets. The right method depends on your lifestyle, preferences, and health history.
Who should not use TRT?
TRT is not appropriate for men with active prostate cancer, elevated PSA, polycythemia, untreated sleep apnea, or those trying to conceive (TRT can reduce sperm production). Your provider reviews your full history before recommending treatment.
This content is educational and does not constitute medical advice.
Quick answers
- Common symptoms of low testosterone
- Low testosterone (also called low T or hypogonadism) can cause fatigue, reduced sex drive, erectile dysfunction, mood changes, depression, difficulty concentrating, reduced muscle mass, increased body fat, and sleep problems.
- How is it diagnosed?
- Low testosterone is diagnosed through a blood test measuring total (and sometimes free) testosterone levels, typically taken in the morning when levels are highest. A provider also considers your symptoms and overall health.
- Treatment options
- Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) is the primary treatment. It's available in several forms — injections, topical gels, patches, and pellets. The right method depends on your lifestyle, preferences, and health history.
- Who should not use TRT?
- TRT is not appropriate for men with active prostate cancer, elevated PSA, polycythemia, untreated sleep apnea, or those trying to conceive (TRT can reduce sperm production). Your provider reviews your full history before recommending treatment. This content is educational and does not constitute medical advice.
Medical disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting any new treatment or making changes to your current care.