What are the Side Effects of Low Testosterone?
One of the best-known hormones in existence is testosterone. Rightly associated with men, this hormone is produced in the testes and is responsible for the development and expression of virtually all the male physical and sexual characteristics. However, one thing that must be noted is that as important as the hormone is, there are some instances in which its production is low and in such circumstances, there are different side effects, some of which are outlined in the following sections. Testosterone supplements are available over the counter and with prescription.
As a result of the fact that testosterone is primarily responsible for the maturation of the male sex organs and in addition to the fact that it influences sexual arousal and performance, it is only understandable that a low testosterone level in the blood will usually manifest mainly in the male reproductive system. This is as a marked decrease in sexual performance and even libido (sexual drive and willingness to copulate). For many, this is the single greatest side effect of the condition. A poor sexual performance on the part of one or both parties has sounded the death knell on many relationships across the globe.
Closely related to the effect mentioned is that of erectile dysfunction which is the inability of men to initiate and (or) sustain penile erection. For many men, this can be very frustrating and can cause depression or decrease the man’s self-esteem or self-confidence, which is very gloomy indeed.
There is also a decrease in the bulk and mass of muscle in people with hypotestosteronemia (the medical condition is named thus) while mood swings is noticed in some others. Luckily, there are various forms of treatments for those battling with persistently low levels of the androgenic hormone.