Testosterone plays a vital role in a man’s physical and emotional health. It influences muscle mass, bone density, energy levels, mood, and sexual function. While low testosterone—also known as hypogonadism—is often associated with aging, an increasing number of younger men are being diagnosed with the condition.
Understanding what causes low testosterone in younger men, how it presents, and what treatment options are available can help those affected take steps toward better health and well-being.
What Is Low Testosterone?
Low testosterone occurs when the body does not produce enough of the hormone testosterone, which is primarily made in the testicles. For adult men, normal testosterone levels generally range between 300 and 1,000 nanograms per deciliter (ng/dL). Levels below this range may lead to noticeable symptoms that affect both physical and emotional functioning.
Causes of Low Testosterone in Young Men
Low testosterone in younger men (typically defined as under 40) can result from a variety of factors, including:
- Hormonal or pituitary disorders: Conditions that affect hormone regulation—such as pituitary gland dysfunction—can lead to reduced testosterone production.
- Testicular injury or infection: Trauma or conditions like mumps orchitis can impair the testicles’ ability to produce testosterone.
- Obesity and poor lifestyle habits: Excess body fat, lack of exercise, poor sleep, and excessive alcohol or drug use can suppress hormone levels.
- Medications or anabolic steroid use: Certain prescription drugs, chemotherapy, or previous use of anabolic steroids may lower testosterone production.
- Chronic illness or stress: Conditions such as diabetes, thyroid disease, or prolonged psychological stress can contribute to hormonal imbalances.
- Genetic conditions: Some inherited disorders, such as Klinefelter syndrome, can also affect testosterone production.
Recognizing the Symptoms
Low testosterone can manifest differently from one person to another. Common symptoms in young men may include:
- Fatigue or decreased energy
- Reduced sex drive or erectile dysfunction
- Difficulty building or maintaining muscle mass
- Increased body fat
- Mood changes, such as irritability or depression
- Poor concentration or motivation
- Hair loss or reduced body hair growth
Because these symptoms can overlap with other medical conditions, a proper evaluation by a urologist or hormone specialist is essential.
How Low Testosterone Is Diagnosed
Diagnosis begins with a thorough medical history, discussion of symptoms, and physical examination. Blood tests are used to measure testosterone levels, typically taken in the morning when levels are highest. In some cases, additional hormone testing or imaging studies may be recommended to identify the underlying cause.
Accurate diagnosis helps determine whether testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) or another treatment approach is appropriate.
Treatment Options
Treatment for low testosterone depends on its cause and the patient’s overall health. Common approaches include:
- Lifestyle changes: Improving diet, exercising regularly, maintaining a healthy weight, and reducing alcohol or drug use can naturally support testosterone production.
- Addressing underlying conditions: Treating thyroid disease, sleep apnea, or metabolic disorders may help restore hormone balance.
- Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT): For men whose bodies cannot produce sufficient testosterone, TRT can help restore normal levels. Options include topical gels, injections, patches, or pellets.
- Fertility-preserving treatments: For men who wish to maintain fertility, alternative treatments such as clomiphene citrate or hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin) may be recommended instead of TRT.
Your urologist will develop a personalized plan based on your individual needs and long-term goals.
When to See a Urologist
If you’re a young man experiencing persistent fatigue, low libido, or other symptoms associated with low testosterone, it’s important to get evaluated. Early diagnosis can help prevent long-term complications such as infertility, osteoporosis, or metabolic issues.
Comprehensive Men’s Health Care in Brentwood, TN
At our Brentwood office, Dr. Howard Aubert provides expert evaluation and treatment for men experiencing symptoms of low testosterone. With a focus on individualized care, Dr. Aubert helps patients identify the root cause and find safe, effective solutions to restore their quality of life.
If you’re concerned about low testosterone, contact Dr. Howard Aubert at (615) 988-8103 to schedule a consultation.