What Does Low Testosterone in Men Mean?

By Carlos Prendes, MD December 03, 2019 Posted in: Wellness

Low T or low testosterone is measured through a blood test. As men age, it is natural for it to trend downwards. Unlike women going through menopause, who have an abrupt loss of hormone levels that go down rather quickly, in men it tends to go down more gradually. A lot of times, men will maybe start having symptoms once they get down below the level of about 300.

What Does Low Testosterone in Men Look Like?

There's several symptoms that can be associated with low testosterone. In fact, it use to be called getting older, but now since we have a name for it we call it Low T.

Fatigue or a loss of motivation is one symptom. Men can have increased irritability, distractibility, symptoms of depression, or they may see a decrease in libido which is a very common effect of low testosterone.

Low T May Show Symptoms Such as:

Erectile dysfunction
Loss of muscle mass
Increase in fat

Some men say that they feel like they've lost their "mojo."

What Can Someone Do for Low T?

You don't have to do anything about it. There actually is some controversy as to whether replacing testosterone in every man who's considered low is worthwhile or not.

What I tell men is - if things are going well for you, you're happy with with your exercise routine, you're happy with your motivation, libido, and things are going well - don't even check.

Because if things are going well there's no point in doing anything with it.

If you feel any of the following it may be worthwhile to talk with your provider:

Feeling like you know your energy levels not there
Libidos not there
Motivations just not where it should be
Your working out in the gym but losing muscle mass

What is Considered Low Testosterone in Men?

The level of testosterone in men depends on age. When you're 18, obviously it's going to be higher than when you're eighty. The normal range for testosterone is considered to be anywhere between 240 and 830. If it's below 300 for a middle-aged man some replacement may be worthwhile.

We Can Replace Testosterone Through:

Injections can be done at home or your doctor's office once a week or every two weeks
Gels that can be applied daily, there is a transdermal patch
Pellets can be inserted under the skin every few months

For more on how to manage Men's Health, please make an appointment with your primary care provider or visit the CHI Health Urology department.