Testosterone can decrease as men get older. In some, this can onset at an earlier age and the symptoms can interfere with daily life and relationships. At Austin Urology Institute, we evaluate and treat men of all ages. While the symptoms listed below are typical of low testosterone (aka Low T), it is also important to recognize other factors that may be contributing to your symptoms such as stress, lack of sleep, or other medical conditions. As a patient experiencing any of these symptoms, you will have a thorough lab evaluation to determine if testosterone is the source.
Fatigue/Lack of energy: Feeling tired throughout the day, especially towards the late afternoon and evening hours is probably the most common symptom of low testosterone. Since testosterone is highest in the morning, men usually have the most energy at the time.
Difficulty sleeping: Having trouble getting a solid, uninterrupted 6-8 hours of sleep. Sleep apnea is another disorder to consider if you persistently snore.
Low libido or sex drive: Libido, or sex drive, is the desire to be physically intimate. It is a symptom that both men and women struggle with, and can cause strain in relationships. This can be a difficult symptom to bring up with your doctor due to its personal nature; however the benefit is that you might find an answer and treatment for it.
Erectile Dysfunction: Erections depend on blood flow to the penis, proper anatomy, and libido. Testosterone is in part responsible for the anatomy and blood flow of the penis. For this reason low testosterone can contribute to erectile dysfunction. Medical conditions such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and high blood pressure affect erectile function as well.
Depressed Mood and Loss of Motivation: Depression can be a frustrating symptom to deal with. Signs include not enjoying activities that you used to before, lack of motivation, fatigue, and sadness. Depression can prevent us from getting proper sleep, exercising, and taking care of our health.
Loss of Muscle Mass: Exercise, and weight lifting in particular should increase muscle mass in men. Testosterone causes the growth of muscle fibers, and it is known that a low testosterone can actually result in loss of muscle mass. Men will notice that although they exercise regularly, and some even intensely, that it is very difficult for them to put on muscle.
Metabolic Syndrome: Comprised of risk factors that increase a patient’s chance of getting diabetes, heart disease, or having a stroke. Generally risk factors will include high blood pressure, elevated blood sugar, elevated LDL (bad) cholesterol, decreased HDL (good) cholesterol, high body mass index (BMI), and a large waist circumference. These issues can affect testosterone production.
Other symptoms include decreased strength, difficulty losing weight, and trouble concentrating.
Virtual Visits Available
We offer both in-clinic and remote telemedicine consultations worldwide.
Our top-rated practitioners are available for remote telemedicine consultations across the state of Texas.