The Dangers of Low Testosterone

It’s no secret that low testosterone can be a nuisance — fatigue, low libido, and brain fog — but it can cause bigger complications. Read on to learn the dangers of low testosterone and how you can restore your levels.

Testosterone levels naturally dip as you age, but factors like obesity, chronic illness, stress, and medications can speed up this process.

Sometimes, low testosterone can also result from issues with the testicles or the pituitary gland, which controls hormone production.

Though low testosterone causes unwanted symptoms, can it be dangerous?

Below, Stephen Ficchi, DO answers that question in depth and explains the dangers of low testosterone and how the Philadelphia Center for Anti-Aging team can help.

What do low testosterone levels do to your body?

Just because hormonal shifts are normal doesn’t mean they’re pleasant. If your testosterone levels dip too low, you’re stuck with symptoms like erectile dysfunction, fatigue, and even symptoms of depression.

Low testosterone can also lead to:

Decreased muscle mass — even if you exercise regularly
Increased body fat around your midsection and weight gain
Low bone density
Thinning hair
Decreased libido
Sexual dysfunction

The symptoms of low testosterone can be subtle at first but may become more noticeable over time.

Dangerous of low testosterone

When left untreated, low testosterone can lead to serious health complications. These include increased risk of:

Cardiovascular problems

Men with low testosterone may be at a higher risk of heart disease, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol. According to a study published in May 2024, low testosterone increases your risk of all-cause mortality as well as death related to cardiovascular problems like these.

Metabolic syndrome

Low testosterone has been linked to insulin resistance, obesity, and increased risk of type 2 diabetes. Obesity and type 2 diabetes each come with their own set of dangerous complications. Obesity, for example, can increase your risk of certain types of cancer, stroke, and kidney problems.

Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is often discussed as a problem for post-menopausal women, but men can be affected, too. Osteoporosis refers to porous, weak bones, and reduced bone density.

Reduced bone density can make bones more fragile and prone to fractures, especially in older men.

Cognitive decline

Testosterone exerts a neuroprotective effect on the brain, and unfortunately, the reverse is also true. When testosterone declines, it can increase your risk of memory problems and an increased risk of dementia.

How to combat low testosterone

If you suspect that you have low testosterone, then give us a ring at 215-801-3036. Dr. Ficchi can test your hormone levels to confirm low testosterone. If that’s the case, he may recommend testosterone replacement therapy.

To get started with hormone replacement therapy, Dr. Ficchi creates a custom plan that delivers testosterone either by topical ointment, pellet, or injection. As your hormones are balanced, you’ll start to feel like yourself again.

If you’re struggling with weight gain — another side effect of low testosterone — Dr. Ficchi may also recommend fat-burning injections.

Losing weight and restoring hormonal balance can help reduce your risk of the dangers of low testosterone.

Ready to learn more? Click here to schedule your low testosterone consultation.