5 Lesser-Known Signs of Low Testosterone

Menopause awareness has been heightened in the last decade, and that’s a great thing. Women are suffering less in silence, and hormone therapy treatments can offer real relief and successfully address everything from night sweats to moodiness.

Less attention seems to be paid to men’s hormonal shifts, which they experience in midlife as well. 

A significant difference between men’s and women’s hormonal changes is that once a woman stops ovulating and her periods end, they’re more sudden and marked, while men’s happen more gradually, over many years.

These hormonal changes cause a range of symptoms that affect a man’s quality of life, and fortunately, treatments are available to mitigate these symptoms. 

The caring provider team at Primary Care Walk-In Clinic is dedicated to offering treatments for men experiencing low testosterone so they can feel more energetic, better, and “like themselves.” We know how much it matters!

Unwelcome changes accompany testosterone reduction

On average, men’s testosterone levels fall by about 1.6% per year starting in their 30s, and 10-15% of men over age 60 have clinically low levels. The percentage increases in men as they age.

Common symptoms that men experience include:

• Hot flashes (yes, men experience them too)
• Erectile dysfunction
• Decreased muscle mass
• Mood changes
• Fatigue/lowered energy

Though the above symptoms are more well-known, there is a range of low-testosterone symptoms that many aren’t aware of — but should be:

1. Memory and focus issues

Low testosterone might be the farthest thing from your mind if you find yourself having trouble concentrating or finding the right words when you’re speaking.

Believe it or not, these challenges may indicate lower levels.

2. Enlarged breast tissue

This condition is called gynecomastia, and breast swelling can also be accompanied by pain.

Low testosterone also contributes to weight gain by slowing your metabolism. 

3. Reduced interest in sex

Lower libido is linked to low testosterone levels, so if you’re experiencing a disconnect with your partner, this could be why.

4. Body hair loss

Have you noticed that your underarm and pubic hair are barely there? 

If so, this means a testosterone deficiency is keeping your hair follicles from getting the important message to grow hair.

5. Bone problems

Osteoporosis, a condition where the bones become brittle and fracture easily, isn’t only for women! Low testosterone negatively affects your bone mass, putting you at risk for painful bone breaks that impair your mobility.

If any of these low-testosterone-related symptoms surprised you, you’re likely not alone. Many patients who come to see us with dysregulated hormones know little beyond the basics.

Treatments that restore testosterone are available 

Your Primary Care Walk-In Clinic provider can recommend treatment that will restore your testosterone levels and address any disruptive symptoms you’ve been experiencing, so you can live more fully again.

We offer bioidentical hormone therapy, which is administered in pellet form and implanted in your hip. These hormones are derived from natural sources and are very close to those your body produces. 

You might also get hormone therapy via injection, dermal patches, or gels applied topically.

You don’t need to continue living with low testosterone symptoms that leave you feeling depleted and diminished. With the right hormonal therapy, you can get back to feeling vital once again.

Contact our Gilbert, Fountain Hills, Mesa, or Scottsdale office to schedule an appointment or book one online.