Testosterone is an essential hormone for men's health. It influences key male characteristics and bodily functions like muscle mass, bone density, fat distribution, facial and body hair growth, sperm production, sex drive and energy levels. Maintaining healthy testosterone levels can have a big impact on your overall well-being and quality of life.
When working to optimize your health, it’s important to be able to recognize signs of low testosterone and understand how to address them with your healthcare provider.
Know the potential signs of low testosterone
Low testosterone can result in concerning symptoms. Here are some common signs and symptoms of potential low testosterone levels:
- Decreased sex drive or erectile dysfunction
- Reduced sperm count
- Enlarged or tender breast tissue
- Loss of body hair
- Thinning bones or unexplained anemia
- Loss of muscle mass and strength
- Increased body fat and reduced energy
Keep in mind that other conditions may also cause these symptoms. Testing your levels and discussing your results and symptoms with your healthcare provider can help you discern whether they’re related to low testosterone or a different health concern.
Understanding the potential causes of low testosterone
Low testosterone, also called hypogonadism, can be caused by a variety of congenital (present at birth) or acquired (developed after birth) conditions. There are two main types of hypogonadism: primary and secondary hypogonadism.
Primary hypogonadism stems from issues with testosterone production in the testes, such as genetic or physical abnormalities present at birth, testicular trauma, anabolic steroids, cancer treatment and other testicular disorders that can cause low testosterone levels.
In secondary hypogonadism, on the other hand, low testosterone levels result from issues with pituitary and hypothalamic hormones produced in the brain that help regulate testosterone production in the testes. Pituitary tumors, liver disorders, HIV/AIDS, obstructive sleep apnea and obesity are just some examples of conditions that can lead to secondary hypogonadism.
Certain medications, chronic illnesses, radiation treatment and natural aging may also contribute to lower testosterone production over time.
How do I know if my testosterone levels are too low?
Understanding your testosterone levels and the potential causes of low testosterone can empower you and your healthcare provider to make informed decisions about any lifestyle changes, medications or hormone therapy approaches you might consider to address symptoms.
Labcorp OnDemand’s Comprehensive Testosterone Test measures total testosterone (the entire amount of testosterone circulating in your bloodstream), free testosterone (the amount of testosterone in your bloodstream that is unbound to proteins and available for your body to use) and proteins that bind to and transport testosterone throughout the body.
We also offer a Men’s Health Test. In addition to total testosterone, this test measures related biomarkers (i.e., measures of biological processes), like blood sugar and cholesterol, to help you get a complete picture of your health.
If you have any concerns about low testosterone based on symptoms or known risk factors, discuss them with your healthcare provider. Together, you can improve your understanding of your hormone health and determine whether a testosterone blood test is right for you.
