Peak Performance
Low Testosterone Levels in Men Symptoms, Solutions, and Sympathy
By Maria Harding
Many women are natural caregivers and sources of strength for their families. When a loved one is suffering, we are compelled to offer support. This role becomes more complicated when men in our lives are suffering from impotence, loss of hair, mood swings—all signs of decreased testosterone levels. There is a lingering misconception that men opening up about these concerns is a sign of weakness. We don’t want to embarrass the men we love, and so we say nothing. Testosterone is a hormone that is produced in the testicles, it influences men’s gender expression in appearance, sex drive, and bone and muscle density. Low testosterone levels affect 20 percent of men older than 60 years and one third of men over 70. It is two to three times more common in men who have diabetes or are overweight, even at younger ages. If a testicle has been damaged or removed, this can also affect testosterone levels in the body. Symptoms vary but can include decreased libido or inability to maintain an erection, hair loss, fatigue, mood swings, increased body fat, anemia, and memory issues. A doctor can check testosterone levels through a simple blood test. Because testosterone levels decrease throughout the day, blood will likely be drawn before noon. If low levels are detected, additional tests might be done to help determine the cause. In some cases, pituitary gland issues or tumors may explain low testosterone levels.
50 AAOS Half BW.indd
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June 2021
Some sources have likened low testosterone levels to menopause in women and have even termed this hormonal transition “male menopause.”This is an apt comparison in some ways and less apt in others. Unlike menopause, during which women experience a dramatic drop in hormone levels, men’s hormonal shifts happen gradually. This can make pinpointing the cause of body changes much more difficult. With menopause, women lose the ability to reproduce; men continue to produce sperm, even if their testosterone levels are low. One way to offer support to men in our lives who may be suffering from fluctuating testosterone levels is to maintain awareness of the biochemical impact it has on their energy and psyche. The mood swings that accompany ebbing testosterone can be hard on relationships. Be patient during periods of irritability or depression and avoid blaming yourself or each other. Enlist the help of an individual or couples therapist; sometimes, working through complicated emotions in a neutral location
12/9/20 12:58 PM
