A Visual Guide to Low Testosterone

Testosterone may be the most notorious of hormones. It conjures up thoughts of muscles and masculinity. In fact, testosterone does fuel sex drive and muscle mass, but it also regulates mood and bone strength. When a man's level falls below normal, a doctor may prescribe shots, gels, or patches. But there is some debate over who needs treatment. A slow drop in testosterone is a normal part of aging, sometimes called "andropause" or "male menopause." For many men, this doesn't cause any significant problems or symptoms. Others may notice a decline in muscle mass, depression, or less interest in sex. Low testosterone can cause visible changes in some men: Smaller, softer testicles Larger breasts Thinner muscles (happens slowly over a period of years) Loss of body hair You may think osteoporosis, or brittle bone disease, is a woman's disease, but it can affect men as well. Low testosterone is a common cause. As testosterone levels fall, the bones may get thinner, weaker, and more likely to break. A drop in testosterone doesn't always interfere with sex, but it can make it more difficult for your brain and body to get aroused. Some men may notice a drop in libido, while others may lose interest in sex completely. Low testosterone can also make it tougher to get or keep an erection.Some men have subtle problems like mood changes, poor concentration, and less energy. These symptoms can easily be caused by other health problems though, like anemia, depression, sleep troubles, or a chronic illness. Testosterone helps a man's body make sperm. When levels of the hormone are low, their sperm "count" can be low, too. Without enough sperm, they may not be able to fYour doctor may suggest a testosterone test if you have: Erectile dysfunction Lower sex drive Low sperm count A loss of height, body hair, or muscle size If you have an illness known to lower testosterone, your doctor may want to test your levels of the hormoneather a child. Getting older is the most common reason testosterone levels dip. Illnesses are sometimes to blame, including: Type 2 diabetes Liver obesity Pituitary gland problems Testicle injuries Tumors Radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and steroid medicines can also affect testosterone levels. Your doctor may suggest a testosterone test if you have: Erectile dysfunction Lower sex drive Low sperm count A loss of height, body hair, or muscle size If you have an illness known to lower testosterone, your doctor may want to test your levels of the hormone If you have low blood levels of testosterone AND symptoms that affect your daily life, your doctor may suggest taking supplemental testosterone. Not everyone with low testosterone will need treatment. You may want to see a specialist to discuss the risks and possible benefits of treatment. Look for a urologist or an endocrinologist, a doctor who treats hormone problems.