Signs & Symptoms
Symptoms of low testosterone can vary depending on age. The most common symptoms include:
- Reduced sex drive
- Erectile dysfunction
- Low sperm count
- Increased body fat
- Reduced energy
- Reduced endurance
Other symptoms of male hypogonadism include:
- Loss of armpit and pubic hair
- Hot flashes
- Fatigue
- Poor memory and concentration
- Reduced motivation
- Depressed mood
What Causes Low Testosterone?
The causes of low testosterone are classified into two main categories: primary and secondary male hypogonadism.
Causes of Primary Male Hypogonadism
With primary male hypogonadism, it occurs due to either a congenital or an acquired testicular problem. Congenital means that you are born with it, and acquired means that it is a result of something else, such as trauma, radiation, or mumps.
Causes of Secondary Male Hypogonadism
Secondary male hypogonadism is responsible for most of the low testosterone cases. With this, testosterone levels are low due to complex physiological and behavioral factors that interfere with the production of testosterone. These factors can include obesity, head trauma, and diabetes.