Is it low testosterone? 5 signs men shouldn’t ignore

Feeling tired, less interested in sex, or frustrated that your workouts are not paying off can be easy to blame on age, stress, or a busy life. And sometimes, that’s exactly what it is.

But for some men, those changes may actually be signs of low testosterone.

“Testosterone helps men feel like themselves,” says Shandra Wilson, MD, a board-certified urologist and medical director of urologic oncology at Intermountain Health. “It affects libido, muscle strength, energy, and even bone health.”

So what should you watch for?

Low testosterone can influence how you feel, how you move, and even how your body responds to exercise. Here are five signs Dr. Wilson says may be worth discussing with your provider.

1. You feel tired all the time

Low energy is one of the most common reasons men ask about testosterone.

This isn't the occasional sluggish day after staying up too late. It's a persistent feeling that your normal drive and motivation are missing.

“Some guys say they feel saggy,” Dr. Wilson says. “They get home from work and don't feel like doing as much.”

Of course, fatigue can have many causes, from poor sleep and stress to thyroid problems and other health conditions. But if low energy has become your new normal, it may be worth looking deeper. 

2 Your sex drive is lower than it used to be

A drop in libido is one of the clearest signs of low testosterone.

Many men notice less interest in sex or find that their desire has changed over time. While relationship challenges, stress, medications, and other health conditions can all affect libido, testosterone plays an important role.

Because the change often happens gradually, some men don't realize how much their interest in sex has shifted until they look back and compare it to how they felt a few years earlier.

3. You have trouble getting or keeping an erection

Erectile dysfunction and low testosterone aren't the same thing, but they can be connected.

“Erections need good blood flow,” Dr. Wilson says. “But if testosterone is really low, that can also be one of the signs.”

Erection problems can have many causes, including diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, and circulation issues. That's one reason providers often look at the bigger picture instead of focusing on a single symptom.

4. Your workouts aren't paying off like they used to

Testosterone helps support muscle strength and muscle growth.

Some men notice they're putting in the same effort at the gym but aren't seeing the same gains. Others find it harder to maintain muscle mass or feel weaker than they used to.

“People tell me they don't get as much out of their workouts,” Dr. Wilson says. “They're going to the gym, but they're not seeing muscle building as quickly.”

The good news is that exercise can work both ways. Dr. Wilson says strength training, particularly heavier resistance training, may help support healthy testosterone levels naturally.

5. Your bones are getting weaker

Bone health may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think about testosterone, but the two are closely connected.

Testosterone helps keep bones strong. When levels are low, the risk of osteoporosis and fractures can increase.

“In older men, sometimes the sign is not what they feel day to day,” Dr. Wilson says. “It may show up as osteoporosis because testosterone helps build bones too.”

For some men, bone loss may be one of the first clues that something is off.

When should you get your testosterone checked?

If several of these symptoms sound familiar, a total testosterone test can help determine whether low testosterone may be contributing to the problem.

The test is a simple blood draw, usually done in the morning when testosterone levels are highest. Your provider will typically start with a total testosterone test. Depending on the results, additional testing may be recommended.

Dr. Wilson's advice is straightforward.

“Get your number,” she says. “Then you know if it's low testosterone or something else.”

Testosterone levels naturally decline with age, but symptoms can show up earlier. Dr. Wilson says she occasionally sees low testosterone in men in their 30s and 40s, especially after a major illness, surgery, or other significant life stressor.

“Sometimes it's gradual, and sometimes it's reactionary,” she says.

Your daily habits affect testosterone levels

Sleep, exercise, stress, weight, and nutrition can all affect hormone levels.

Poor sleep can increase stress hormones, which can interfere with the body's testosterone production. Excess body fat can also affect hormone balance.

“When you have more fat, it can turn testosterone into estrogen,” Dr. Wilson says.

Maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, getting enough sleep, and eating a balanced diet can all help support healthy testosterone levels.

If your testosterone is low, you have options

Treatment depends on your symptoms, overall health, and personal goals.

Some men improve their testosterone levels through lifestyle changes. Others may benefit from testosterone replacement therapy or medications that help the body produce more testosterone naturally.

The right approach depends on the individual, which is why an evaluation is so important.

Don't ignore the 5 signs of low testosterone

Low testosterone can affect many aspects of a man's health, from energy and sexual health to strength and bone health. The good news is that there are ways to identify what's causing your symptoms and, if needed, treatments that can help.

At Intermountain Health, our board-certified urologists provide comprehensive men's health care, including evaluation and treatment for low testosterone, erectile dysfunction, infertility, and other reproductive health concerns. With advanced diagnostics, personalized treatment plans, and convenient access to expert care, we're here to help you feel your best and protect your long-term health.

Whether you're concerned about low testosterone or simply want answers about changes you've noticed, our team can help you understand your options and find the approach that's right for you.

Visit our Urology Services page to learn more or find a provider.