Testosterone Deficiency | Symptoms of Testosterone Deficiency

Posted by

Rasime Erkan

21/07/2025

On 21/07/2025

Testosterone Deficiency

Testosterone is a crucial hormone, especially for male health. It regulates many biological processes in the body, and testosterone deficiency can lead to both physical and psychological effects. In this article, we will explore in detail what testosterone does, the causes and symptoms of its deficiency, diagnostic methods, and treatment options.

What is Testosterone?

Testosterone is a naturally produced androgen hormone. In men, it is primarily secreted in the testes, while in women, it is produced in smaller amounts by the ovaries and adrenal glands. In males, it is mainly responsible for the changes seen during puberty, such as deepening of the voice, muscle development, and increased body hair.

Testosterone also plays key roles in:

Because of these important functions, a decrease in testosterone levels can lead to various health problems.

What is Testosterone Deficiency?

Testosterone deficiency occurs when blood testosterone levels fall below the normal range. In medical literature, this condition is known as hypogonadism. It can be congenital (present at birth) or develop later in life. In men, testosterone levels naturally decline with age, but in some individuals, this decline can reach levels that negatively impact health.

Generally, a total testosterone level below 300 ng/dL in adult men is considered low and may cause various physical and psychological symptoms.

Causes of Testosterone Deficiency

There are many causes of testosterone deficiency, which are categorized into two main groups:

Occurs when the testes fail to produce adequate testosterone. Causes include:

Occurs when hormonal signals from the hypothalamus or pituitary gland in the brain are insufficient. Causes include:

Pituitary tumors
Excessive stress
Obesity
Severe infections
Anorexia or other eating disorders
Chronic illnesses (e.g., diabetes, kidney or liver diseases)

Additionally, aging, alcohol or substance use, poor sleep habits, and certain medications can negatively affect testosterone levels.

Symptoms of Testosterone Deficiency

Individuals with low testosterone may experience various symptoms. These usually develop over time and can often be mistaken as a normal part of aging. However, persistent and widespread symptoms may indicate an underlying hormonal imbalance.

Reduced sexual desire (low libido)
Erectile dysfunction
Decreased sperm production, infertility
Decrease in muscle mass
Reduced body hair
Enlargement of breast tissue (gynecomastia)
Loss of bone density (osteoporosis)
Weight gain, especially abdominal fat
Fatigue and low energy

These symptoms may also signal other health problems. However, if several occur simultaneously, it is important to check testosterone levels.

What is a Total Testosterone Test?

The total testosterone test is the most common method for determining testosterone levels in the blood. It measures both bound and free testosterone. This test is usually conducted in the morning on an empty stomach, as hormone levels are highest at that time.

In some cases, free or bioavailable testosterone measurements are also needed. Additional hormone levels like LH, FSH, and prolactin may be assessed depending on the doctor’s evaluation.

Treatment of Testosterone Deficiency

Once diagnosed, the appropriate treatment plan is determined based on the individual’s age, symptoms, and overall health. The most common treatment is testosterone replacement therapy (TRT).

This therapy involves administering testosterone externally to replace the deficient hormone. Common forms include:

In cases of mild testosterone deficiency, lifestyle modifications can be effective:

Regular exercise, especially resistance training
Healthy, balanced diet
Adequate sleep
Stress management
Avoiding alcohol and smoking
Weight control

If another condition is causing the deficiency, addressing that illness is essential. For example, managing a pituitary tumor or insulin resistance can help restore hormone balance.

Warning: Testosterone therapy is not suitable for everyone. It must be used cautiously, especially in individuals at risk for prostate cancer. A thorough medical evaluation is essential before beginning treatment.

Testosterone is a key hormone in maintaining male health. Prolonged deficiency can significantly reduce quality of life. Recognizing the symptoms early and consulting with an endocrinologist allows for accurate testing and effective treatment to restore hormonal balance.

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Testosterone Deficiency Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

At what age does testosterone deficiency usually begin?

Testosterone levels typically start to decline naturally after the age of 30. However, the pace and impact vary between individuals.

Is testosterone deficiency seen only in men?

No. Women also produce testosterone in smaller amounts, and deficiency can cause symptoms in both genders, although it’s more prominent in men.

When should a testosterone test be done?

It is recommended to perform the test in the morning on an empty stomach, as testosterone levels are highest at that time.

Does testosterone therapy cause infertility?

Some testosterone treatments can suppress sperm production. Those who wish to have children should discuss options with their doctor.