Testosterone, a hormone produced in testicles in men, plays a key role when it comes to your appearance as well as sexual development. With the right levels of testosterone, sperm production will be optimal. Even more, this hormone plays a major role when it comes to sex drive and the stimulation of sperm production. Even more, it helps build muscles as well as bone mass. However, the level of testosterone tends to decrease as you age.
Table of Contents
The Stats
According to the stats, nearly 20 percent of men who are older than 60 years of age suffer from low levels of testosterone. The figures are even shocking on men who are between 70 and 80 years of age (the figure is estimated to be 30 percent). The level of testosterone in men suffering from low T is below 300 nonograms per deciliter. According to the Food and Drug Administration, the level of testosterone in a normal person should be between 300 and 1,000ng/Dl. normally, your doctor will conduct a blood test known as a serum testosterone test to determine the level of testosterone that circulates. There are different symptoms of low levels of testosterone.
The Symptoms
The following are common symptoms of low levels of testosterone.
Low Sex Drive
Testosterone plays a significant role in men’s libido. Some men might experience low sex drive as they age. But someone with low T is more likely to experience a more drastic decline in their desire to have sex.
Difficulty When It Comes to Erection
Not only does testosterone stimulate a man’s sex drive, but it’s also helpful in achieving and maintaining an erection. Remember, testosterone alone doesn’t aid an erection, but it stimulates certain brain receptors to produce nitric oxide, which then triggers a series of reactions required for an erection to occur.
Low Volume of Semen
Testosterone facilitates the production of semen, a milky fluid that helps in the motility of your sperm. During ejaculation, people with low testosterone levels will often experience a decline in the volume of their semen.
Hair Loss
Testosterone also plays a key role in other body functions, such as hair production. Of course, balding is a natural part of aging. And while there’s an inherited component to balding, people with low T might also experience a loss of body as well as facial hair.
Fatigue
Men with low T are more likely to experience extreme fatigue and a significant decrease in energy levels. If you’re feeling tired all the time despite getting adequate sleep or if you’re finding it difficult to get motivated to exercise, then you could be having low testosterone levels.
Muscle Mass Loss
Testosterone helps in building muscle. And that’s exactly why men with low T usually experience a decrease in body mass. Research has shown that testosterone affects a man’s muscle mass, but not necessarily his strength or function.
The Bottom-Line
Understanding the common signs and symptoms of low T is important. It will help you determine the best course of action—including taking foods and testosterone supplements. The above are common signs and symptoms of low levels of testosterone.
Image source: Wikipedia
