12 Common Signs of Low Testosterone (Hypogonadism) In Men
Testosterone influences more than sex drive. It helps maintain muscle mass, bone strength, red blood cell production and sperm production in men. When levels fall below normal, you may notice changes in your sexual health, physical strength or mood. Recognising the common signs of low testosterone in men can help you understand how to manage its levels and when to seek medical advice.
What Is Testosterone and Why Is It Important in Men?
Testosterone is a hormone present in both men and women, although levels are typically much higher in men. In males, it is produced mainly in the testicles and plays an important role in sex drive, sperm production, muscle strength and bone health. Also, it helps maintain body hair and supports red blood cell production.
Normal Testosterone Levels By Age Chart UK
According to the UK’s National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE), testosterone levels typically fall within a laboratory reference range of around 10–30 nmol/L in a healthy adult man, although ranges vary between laboratories. Levels below 8 nmol/L on two morning tests, alongside relevant symptoms, may be an indication of testosterone deficiency. Results between 8 and 12 nmol/L may require further assessment.
Below are the reference ranges for UK men, expressed in nmol/L - a standard unit used by UK laboratories:
20-29 Years: 10-30 nmol/L
30-39 Years: 10-28 nmol/L
40-49 Years: 8-26 nmol/L
50-59 Years: 7-24 nmol/L
Above 60 Years: 6-22 nmol/L
12 Common Signs and Symptoms of Low Testosterone in Men
Low testosterone in men, also known as male hypogonadism, can present in several ways. The symptoms can vary from person to person.
Note: These symptoms can also occur with other health conditions. If you experience persistent symptoms, consult your doctor.
Persistent Fatigue and Low Energy
Low testosterone can leave you feeling unusually tired, drained or less energetic throughout the day. You may find everyday activities more tiring or notice that your usual stamina has declined. Some men also experience reduced motivation and difficulty concentrating.
Schedule a Blood Test for Low Energy
Reduced Sex Drive
A noticeable drop in sexual desire is one of the key signs of low testosterone. You may feel less desire for sex or reduced orgasm intensity. Testosterone helps regulate sexual desire, so persistently low levels can affect your interest in sex.
Erectile Difficulties
Low testosterone can affect erectile function, making it harder to achieve or maintain an erection. Testosterone supports the processes involved in sexual function, although erection difficulties are not always caused by a hormone deficiency.
Fewer Morning Erections
Morning erections occur naturally during sleep, particularly during certain stages of the sleep cycle. If you notice fewer morning or spontaneous erections than usual, it may be a sign of low testosterone, especially when accompanied by a reduced sex drive.
Loss of Muscle Mass and Strength
Testosterone helps maintain muscle tissue and physical strength. When levels remain low, you may notice a gradual loss of muscle mass, reduced strength or greater difficulty maintaining your usual fitness. These changes can occur even when you continue your regular exercise routine.
Unexplained Weight Gain and Increased Body Fat
Low testosterone can contribute to changes in body composition, including increased body fat and reduced lean muscle mass. You may notice that your body composition changes over time, particularly around your waist and muscle maintenance becomes difficult.
Depression
Low testosterone levels may contribute to symptoms such as depression, anxiety and irritability. However, these symptoms can also have other causes, including underlying health conditions, fatigue and work-related stress.
Reduced Facial and Body Hair
Testosterone helps support facial and body hair growth in men. With significant testosterone deficiency, men may notice slower beard growth and reduced hair in armpits.
Breast Tissue Enlargement
Low testosterone can disrupt the balance between testosterone and oestrogen, sometimes contributing to the development of enlarged breast tissue, known as gynaecomastia. You may notice swelling, tenderness or a fuller appearance around the chest.
Reduced Bone Strength
Testosterone helps maintain bone density and strength. Persistently low levels can gradually reduce bone density, making bones more fragile and increasing the risk of osteoporosis and fractures. This change usually develops without obvious symptoms, so reduced bone strength may not be noticeable until a fracture occurs.
Brain Fog and Lack of Focus
Testosterone plays an important role in maintaining and improving cognitive function. Low levels of this hormone may cause symptoms, such as lack of concentration, memory loss, brain fog, and trouble making decisions.
Sleep Difficulties
Low testosterone levels may affect sleep quality, contributing to difficulty falling asleep, frequent waking during the night, or feeling tired despite getting enough sleep.
What Causes Low Testosterone in Men?
Low testosterone can be caused by multiple factors. It can occur due to ageing, obesity, testicular injury or infection, certain medications, and conditions affecting the hypothalamus or pituitary gland. Identifying the underlying cause helps guide appropriate treatment.
When Should Men Consider a Testosterone Blood Test?
Consider speaking to your GP about a testosterone blood test if you experience persistent changes in your sex drive, erections, energy levels or muscle strength, particularly if several symptoms occur together.
Testosterone levels are usually measured with a morning blood test. If the result is low, a second morning test is generally needed to confirm the deficiency. Your GP can assess the results alongside your symptoms to determine whether treatment or further investigation is needed.
The Bottom Line
Low testosterone can affect sexual health, energy levels, mood and physical strength, but these symptoms can also have other causes. If you have noticed persistent changes, a testosterone blood test can help determine whether low levels may be contributing.
Book your testosterone blood test with The National Blood Test Clinic for convenient access to private blood testing and home testing kits across the UK. Take the first step towards understanding your hormone levels and overall health.
