Testosterone is a sex hormone produced by the testicles in men. Unusually low levels of testosterone in the body, a condition called testosterone deficiency or hypogonadism, can occur for a number of reasons, including normal aging, stress or disease, according to the Cleveland Clinic. Male patients who develop testosterone deficiency symptoms should consult a physician for additional care and guidance.
Genital Abnormalities
The symptoms of testosterone deficiency vary based upon when these declines occur during a male's life. A male infant who does not produce enough testosterone while he is in utero can have genital abnormalities at birth. Significantly low or absent levels of testosterone can cause male infants to exhibit female or ambiguous genitalia. Low levels of testosterone in male infants may also result in undescended testes or underdeveloped genitals, the Merck Manuals Online Medical Library reports.
Delayed Growth or Puberty
Male children with low testosterone levels may experience growth delays, especially during puberty. These delays can include poor muscle development, breast tissue growth, limited genital or body hair growth and lack of deepened voice changes, according to the Milton S. Hershey Medical Center. Additionally, young men with testosterone deficiency typically exhibit abnormal growth of the legs or arms, which leads to increased height and unusual body proportions.
Decreased Muscle or Bone Mass
Adult men who develop diminished testosterone levels may experience a decrease in their normal muscle or bone mass, MayoClinic.com reports. Affected men may notice an increase in their body weight or body fat and growth of their breast tissue. These physical changes may become more apparent as a man continues to age, as testosterone levels progressively decrease during normal aging.
Erectile Dysfunction or Infertility
Sexual changes can occur as symptoms of testosterone deficiency. Men with this condition may experience difficulty achieving an erection during sexual stimulation that is suitable for intercourse, a symptom called erectile dysfunction. Erectile dysfunction can be embarrassing and may contribute to diminished sexual libido, according to the Merck Manuals Online Medical Library. Certain men may also become infertile, which means that they can't impregnate a woman. If these sexual changes arise for any reason, affected men should be evaluated by a medical professional.
Hot Flashes or Fatigue
Fatigue and hot flashes can arise as symptoms of testosterone deficiency in men. Increased fatigue may cause certain men to experience difficulty concentrating or remaining alert while participating in work, home or social activities. Hot flashes are uncomfortable and may cause affected men to wake frequently during the night, which can exacerbate fatigue symptoms.
Depression or Irritability
Mood changes, such as depression or irritability, may affect men who have low levels of testosterone. Depression can accompany fatigue and may contribute to decreased sexual libido or poor concentration. Certain men may also become unusually irritable, the Milton S. Hershey Medical Center reports. These mood changes can negatively affect a man's intimate and personal relationships.
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