Low Testosterone Checklist

As men age, their body’s production of testosterone may decrease. As a result, they may experience signs and symptoms of low testosterone, which may present itself similar to other disorders. When diagnosing low testosterone, certain blood tests need to be conducted in addition to a comprehensive medical history and physical exam. Below are a few questions you can ask yourself to help determine if you may be experiencing low testosterone.

Checklist (Yes/No)

1. Have you noticed a change in your testicle’s size or texture?Men with low testosterone often report a decrease in the size, and/or an increase in the softness of their testicles. Responsible for production of testosterone, as testicles atrophy, their production of testosterone may also decrease.2. Do you have trouble getting or keeping an erection?Decreased testosterone can often present as erectile dysfunction. Trouble getting or maintaining an erection for the duration of intercourse could be signs of low testosterone (Low T).

3. Have you noticed a decreased libido?Patients of Low T often report a decreased desire for sexual relations. Barring relationship strife, if you believe you are experiencing lower than usual libido, it could be a sign of Low T.4. Do you feel irritable, depressed or note any emotional changes?Have you noticed changes in your mood recently? Low testosterone levels have been linked with alterations in mood. Often, signs of Low T can be misdiagnosed as depression. If you believe you are feeling depressed, consult your doctor regarding your concerns and ask if Low testosterone could be the cause.5. Do you have trouble concentrating?Changes in testosterone levels can affect the ability to concentrate as well. Displaying signs similar to depression or anxiety, they can affect a person’s ability to concentrate. If you believe you are experiencing decreased concentration, it could be due to low testosterone production.6. Have you noticed a lack of energy or decreased strength and/or stamina?Quite often, we may chalk up not having the energy to do the things we you used to do to the body’s natural aging process. However, frequently the underlying source can be Low T. If you find yourself lacking the vigor you once did, have yourself.

7. Have you noticed a decrease in recent work performance?It could be the culmination from a lack of concentration, decreased stamina and even mild depression. If you’ve noticed, or have been told, that your performance has been decreasing, it might be a sign of Low T.8. Have you notice a decrease in you ability to play sports?Low T can cause decreased muscle mass as well as decreased strength and stamina. This can all result in a gradual deterioration of performance. If you’ve noticed your abilities have been lacking as of late, Low T could be the reason.9. Do you frequently fall asleep after dinner?Falling asleep after dinner or a heavy meal can be signs of low testosterone. As men age, decreasing levels of testosterone can influence energy levels and can significantly decrease over time.

10. Are you losing your body hair or noted any physical changes?In addition to our sexual desire and mood, testosterone effect many other body systems which when in short supply, can manifest with different physical changes. A loss of body hair, decreased bone & muscle mass, changes in fat distribution as well as loss of height can present as signs of low testosterone.If you answered “yes” to questions 1, 2 or 3, or at least three of more of the other questions, consult your doctor regarding the results. Talk with him regarding Low-T and ask if a simple blood test is the appropriate next step in diagnosing a low testosterone level. If you are diagnosed with Low T, discuss different treatment options with your doctor to see which is right for you. With proper diagnosis and treatment, you can soon return to feeling like your old self!