Testosterone is known as the primary sex hormone in males (though it’s also present in women). It plays a key role in the development of male reproductive parts, as well as muscle, bone mass, and even hair. And as it declines, it impacts men in a variety of ways. Do you know the signs and symptoms of low T? Read to learn more about it and how using a Testosterone boosting supplements can help you.
Understanding Testosterone
Testosterone is a critically important hormone that’s found in all humans, as well as in many other animals. In men, testosterone is primarily made in the testicles, whereas women’s ovaries also make small amounts of the hormone.
The production of testosterone increases significantly during puberty and ultimately peaks during a man’s mid-to-late-20s. Around age 30, testosterone levels begin to gradually decline.
“Testosterone is most often associated with sex drive, and plays a vital role in sperm production,” Healthline explains. “It also affects bone and muscle mass, the way men store fat in the body, and even red blood cell production. A man’s testosterone levels can also affect his mood.”
As testosterone levels stabilize and then eventually dip, most men begin experiencing an array of symptoms. Thankfully, these symptoms are more frustrating than they are dangerous or debilitating. Nevertheless, there are ways to combat low T and continue living a happy and healthy life.
4 Signs You’re Experiencing Low T
Some of the signs of low T are quite obvious and well known. Depression, fatigue, and low libido are all warning signs that most men know about. But it doesn’t stop there. There are plenty of other signs to keep an eye on, including:
- Reduced Bone Mass
“You won’t realize your bones are getting thinner until they fracture, but lower testosterone can contribute to reduced bone-mineral density,” says Stephen Borst, PhD, associate director for research with the Geriatric Research, Education, and Clinical Center at the Malcom Randall Veterans Affairs Medical Center in Gainesville, Florida.
The good news is that bone mass related issues can typically be dealt with using supplements and targeted nutrition. However, because bone mass problems aren’t usually detected until there’s a problem, it can take upwards of a year to increase bone mineral density to the appropriate levels.
- Balding and Thinning Hair
If you’re experiencing balding or thinning hair, it’s possible that it’s a direct result of waning testosterone levels.
How so?
It all starts with dihydrotestosterone (DHT) – a testosterone-driven hormone that’s abundant in your hair, skin, and prostate. DHT regulates most of the areas of your body where hair is found. And as DHT levels fluctuate, so can hair growth patterns.
“The assumption of increased baldness due to the high level of testosterone is based on Dihydrotestosterone’s overproduction,” Kiierr mentions. “In fact, there is a bulk of anecdotal evidence that shows that increased levels of DHT have caused hair thinning in men and women.”
As DHT is overproduced, it has the ability to bind to healthy hair follicles and deprive them of the necessary oxygen and nutrients for survival. This leads to decreased growth that causes hair follicles to die off.
- Skin Changes
It’s fairly common for low testosterone levels to cause skin changes and issues – particularly in those with underlying skin conditions. Skin often becomes dry and for those with psoriasis, minor issues can quickly become exacerbated.
- Changes in Memory and Cognitive Functioning
There’s some evidence to suggest that memory and cognitive functioning may also decline along with testosterone levels. These sorts of issues are less likely to affect younger men. Instead, they tend to crop up in older men around age 70. And because there are so many factors in play, the underlying correlation is still unclear.
What to Do if You Suspect Low T?
Declining testosterone levels is a natural part of the aging process. However, if you’re still young and find yourself experiencing extreme symptoms and other factors that inhibit your quality of life, it might be worth exploring some different solutions and treatment options.
A simple blood test can be used to determine your testosterone levels. Based on this information, your doctor can develop a targeted treatment plan that’s appropriate for your age, symptoms, and other health factors. In certain scenarios, testosterone or Hormone Replacement Therapy is an option for replenishing testosterone levels and lessening the severity of unwanted side effects.
