Low Testosterone
Symptoms
Symptoms include reduced sex drive, erectile dysfunction, fatigue, depressed mood, loss of muscle strength and mass, and increased fat, especially in the abdomen. Low Testosterone can also cause reduced bone density in men, which in more advanced cases can cause osteoporosis and an increased risk of fractures.
The symptoms of testosterone deficiency can be quite non-specific, but a validated questionnaire on the Andropause Society website could help you decide whether you need to medical help:
Treatment
Treatment to restore the Testosterone to normal levels may be considered in men who are both symptomatic and have a significantly lowered Testosterone level. A number of checks need to be done before starting treatment, including prostate-specific antigen (PSA), liver enzymes and haemoglobin levels.
Treatment options include gels, patches, and injections, and close monitoring is required in the initial phase. If beneficial, the treatment can be continued in the long-term, and there is some evidence that a normal Testosterone is good for the general health of the ageing male.