As men age, the level of testosterone, a type of sex hormone, in their bodies naturally declines. In fact, approximately 20 percent of men over the age of 60 have lower-than-normal blood levels of testosterone, according to the Cleveland Clinic. If you are a man and develop symptoms of low testosterone, condition also referred to as hypogonadism, consult your doctor for further evaluation and care.
Fatigue
You may experience unusual fatigue as a symptom of low testosterone levels, MayoClinic.com reports. Increased fatigue may make it difficult for you to concentrate during your daily routine or work schedule. You may also be less interested in engaging in physical or intimate activities. If these symptoms are bothersome, seek care from your physician.
Decreased Muscle or Bone Mass
Unusually low testosterone levels may affect the strength of your muscles or bones. You may notice that your muscles appear less firm or that you have difficulty building muscle mass, the Milton S. Hershey Medical Center explains. Decreased muscle mass may also be associated with decreased bone mass, which may make you more susceptible to bone pain or fractures. Muscle wasting may contribute to sensations of weakness or fatigue and you may struggle to perform physical tasks that were once easy such as lifting a child.
Diminished Hair Growth
As the levels of testosterone in your body begin to decline, you may notice that your facial or body hair progressively thins and becomes sparse, the Merck Manuals Online Medical Library reports. If you have a beard, you may notice that your facial hair appears patchy or uneven.
Gynecomastia
Gynecomastia, a condition in which a male's breast tissue abnormally develops, may occur as a symptom of low testosterone levels, MayoClinic.com warns. Your breast tissue may appear swollen or enlarged and you may experience sensations of tenderness across your chest. Talk with your medical provider if gynecomastia symptoms become embarrassing or problematic.
Erectile Dysfunction and Infertility
Men with low testosterone levels may develop erectile dysfunction as a symptom, according to the Merck Manuals Online Medical Library. Erectile dysfunction is a condition characterized by an inability to achieve or maintain an erection during sexual stimulation. These sexual difficulties may also decrease your interest in intimate activities. In the absence of adequate levels of testosterone, your body may also have difficulty producing sperm. Consequently, you may become infertile due to low testosterone levels. If you and your female partner experience difficulty becoming pregnant, seek additional care from your doctor.
Hot Flashes
Hormonal imbalances can affect the way in which your body regulates its core temperature. Low testosterone levels may cause hot flashes, which cause your body temperature to abnormally spike throughout the day. Hot flashes may cause profuse sweating or flushing and may disrupt your ability to sleep through the night.
