Low testosterone, or low T, is a natural part of aging for men; however, it can significantly affect your physical and mental wellness, causing you to lose focus and energy, experience rapid weight gain, or develop other serious conditions. Therefore, it should not be considered an “inevitable” fact of life, but instead, something you should understand in order to modify your lifestyle and improve your testosterone levels.
What lowers testosterone in men? Aside from aging, other factors can contribute to low T levels. In fact, some men may experience a decrease in testosterone as early as 30.
This article will explore some common causes of low testosterone, signs and symptoms, and which potential treatment options are available.
Why Do I Have Low T?
Let’s identify some internal and external factors that cause Low T in men.
The Natural Aging Process
As men age, their testosterone levels naturally decline. This is a normal part of aging and can start as early as your mid-30s. However, by age 70, most men will have significantly lower testosterone levels than in their youth.
Healthy testosterone levels for men can range from 300 to 1000 nanograms per deciliter (ng/dL) of blood. But, again, the optimal range may vary depending on age, overall health, and other factors. Therefore, the best way to determine normal testosterone levels for you is to work with an experienced men’s health expert.
Medical & Chronic Conditions
Certain medical conditions can also cause low testosterone levels, including, but are not limited to:
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Obesity
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Pituitary gland disorders
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Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA)
In some cases, medications used to treat these conditions can also lower testosterone levels (see below).
Medications
Certain medications can negatively impact testosterone production in men, leading to various symptoms and health issues. For example, opioids and corticosteroids are linked to lower testosterone levels while medications, such as antidepressants and anti-anxiety drugs, may not directly impact testosterone production but can still affect hormone levels differently.
It’s important to talk to a men’s health professional if you’re concerned about how a particular medication may affect your testosterone levels, as they can provide possible alternatives or more proactive treatment options.
Lifestyle Factors
Lifestyle factors can also play a role in testosterone production. The following can contribute to low T:
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Lack of exercise
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Poor diet
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Excessive alcohol consumption
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Smoking
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Poor sleep
Common Signs & Symptoms of Low T
If you’re experiencing any of the following symptoms, you’ll want to contact a men’s health clinic near you for a proper diagnosis and screening:
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Memory loss
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Mood changes
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Difficulty with erections
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Low sex drive
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Fatigue
Additionally, other symptoms of Low T, which might not be recognizable at first, include:
Decrease in Bone Mass: Testosterone contributes to the production and strengthening of bone; therefore, men with low T are more susceptible to bone fractures and can have lower bone volume.
Loss of Muscle Mass: Testosterone hormones are key in muscle development in men. Studies continue to demonstrate that men with Low T will experience a reduction in muscle mass.
Low Semen Volume: Since testosterone plays a critical role in the production of semen, men with low T may experience a decrease in the volume of their semen during ejaculation.
How Is Low T Diagnosed?
Low testosterone levels in men can be diagnosed through a series of tests, such as a blood test to measure the amount of testosterone in the bloodstream.
Other tests may also be done to rule out other potential causes of symptoms, such as thyroid dysfunction or pituitary gland problems. At EveresT Men’s Health, we offer a comprehensive medical evaluation for each individual to help us identify any hormonal deficiencies and rule out other potential issues that may be causing you to experience Low T symptoms.
Your medical exam will include:
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Testing of testosterone levels
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Checking of important vitamin levels
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Assessing blood levels that place you at increased health risk
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Performing body composition measurements, including the InBody 570 Body Adipose Index Analyzer
Once we’ve identified any deficiencies, we will provide you with a personalized medical treatment plan to help you reach your best health possible, including:
Is Low Testosterone Curable?
Just as the question “what lowers testosterone” may vary, treatment for Low T will depend on the individual. Therefore, it’s best to meet with a men’s health provider to ensure you’re getting a holistic review that addresses all possible causes of your symptoms.
If testing confirms low T, common treatment options include hormone replacement therapy, which can help supplement the testosterone in your body to get back to normal levels. However, as every individual is different, every treatment approach will vary. For instance, your health may benefit from a medical weight loss program, evaluation and treatment for sleep apnea, management of diabetes, treatment of high cholesterol, or smoking cessation.
If you’re ready to start feeling more energetic and reach your health goals, now is the time to visit EveresT Men’s Health.
To schedule an appointment, contact one of our three locations in Plymouth, Woodbury, or Eagan.
