Testosterone一a hormone that is produced in the testes and in the ovaries (to a lesser extent)一 plays a vital role in male sexual development and functions. This hormone is also involved with muscle growth, bone density, and red blood cell production. Testosterone levels start to decline naturally as men age, but low levels of testosterone can occur in younger men as well.
The American Urology Association estimates that two out of every 100 men have low testosterone, but how do you know if you’re one of them? Read on to explore the five signs that you have low testosterone, courtesy of Dr. Stephen Ficchi and our team here at the Philadelphia Center for Anti-Aging.
Testosterone has a significant role in the male sex drive. If you are experiencing a decrease in your sex drive or difficulty achieving and maintaining an erection, it could be a sign of low testosterone levels.
If you’ve noticed a change in your sexual desire or performance, it's essential to speak with us to determine if low testosterone could be the cause.
Occasional fatigue 一 especially after a late night out or too many early mornings in a row 一 is not uncommon, but when you’re always tired no matter how much you sleep, it’s worth exploring.
Feeling tired and having low energy levels is a common symptom of low testosterone. If you find yourself feeling fatigued or lacking motivation to participate in activities you once enjoyed, it's worth considering getting your testosterone levels checked. Testosterone helps to boost energy levels, and low levels can lead to feelings of exhaustion and fatigue.
Testosterone is responsible for building and maintaining muscle mass in men. If you have noticed a decrease in your muscle mass despite regular exercise, it could be a sign of low testosterone levels.
Testosterone also plays a role in bone density, so if you have noticed more frequent fractures or weaker bones, it could be related to low testosterone.
Low testosterone levels can also affect your mood, leading to feelings of irritability, depression, and anxiety. These mood changes can have a significant impact on your overall quality of life, so it's crucial to speak with Dr. Ficchi if you are experiencing any changes in your mood.
Even though hair loss is a natural part of the aging process, low testosterone levels can accelerate hair loss in men. Testosterone helps to maintain hair growth, so if you have noticed a sudden and significant loss of hair, it could be a sign of low testosterone levels.
If you're seeking an effective method to improve your vitality, slow the signs of aging, and enhance your overall well-being, the Philadelphia Center for Anti-Aging provides the solution. Led by our anti-aging expert, Dr. Stephen Ficchi, we offer testosterone therapy and other cutting-edge treatments to enhance your sexual health and elevate your self-assurance.
There are many reasons why you might experience these symptoms. For example, thyroid issues can also contribute to fatigue and mood swings. A blood test is the only way to know for sure if your symptoms are caused by low testosterone levels.
Once your levels are confirmed, Dr. Ficchi creates your treatment plan to balance your hormones. Your testosterone replacement therapy can include either synthetic or bioidentical testosterone. We offer testosterone in several different forms, including injections, pellets, and topical creams.
The bottom line: Treatments are available to help increase testosterone levels and alleviate these symptoms, so don't hesitate to seek help if you think you may be suffering from low testosterone.
If you're concerned about your testosterone levels, call our Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, office at 215-776-8821, or book an appointment.