Low Testosterone
Low testosterone, or hypogonadism, is a condition which occurs when testosterone (T) levels in your body fall below normal. Millions of American men are estimated to have low testosterone, but it may be overlooked because the symptoms are subtle and similar to those caused by other medical conditions.
There are many possible signs and symptoms of low testosterone, which are listed in the chart below. Men who are experiencing these signs and symptoms should talk to their doctors about proper diagnosis.
Your doctor can take a medical history and exam, assess your signs and symptoms, and determine your testosterone levels (T levels) with blood tests.
Erectile dysfunction, or ED, means you are not able to keep an erection during sexual activity. It’s possible for low testosterone to cause ED, but ED can also be caused by other factors. Talk to your doctor if you are experiencing ED.
Signs and symptoms of low testosterone1
- Reduced sex drive
- Sexual dysfunction
- Depressed mood
- Fatigue or decreased energy
- Loss of body hair, reduced shaving
- Increased body fat
- Decrease in bone strength
- Reduced muscle mass and strength
Normal total testosterone level1:
~300—1,000 ng/dL
Talk to your doctor about your symptoms. Ask if you should be tested for low testosterone.
This guide can help you keep track of your testosterone levels.
Download and print a full set of health risk charts and bring them with you to all your check-ups to help you monitor your health risks.
For more information on low testosterone, visit IsItLowT.com.
1. Bhasin S, Cunningham GR, Hayes FJ, et al. Testosterone therapy in adult men with androgen deficiency syndromes: an Endocrine Society clinical practice guideline. J Clin Endocrinol Metab. 2010;95:2536-2559.
2. Data on file. Yankelovich men’s “Drive for Five” health campaign report survey. Conducted June 20-28, 2012.