Understanding Testosterone Deficiency in Men: Symptoms & Causes

Testosterone is the primary male hormone. In part it is responsible for the development of male traits and for a male's sex drive and performance. Testosterone deficiency can be congenital or can develop during or after puberty.

Hair

• Testosterone deficiency can manifest as diminished growth or loss of body hair, most commonly affecting the beard.

Sex Functions

• Waning libido, erectile dysfunction and infertility can all result from testosterone deficiency.

Gynecomastia

• Testosterone deficiency can cause gynecomastia, or the over-development of breast tissue in men.

Muscles

• Testosterone plays an important role in maintaining muscle mass. Testosterone deficiency often causes muscles to shrink.

Osteoporosis

• Testosterone is also important to the health of bones. A deficiency will frequently lead to a loss in bone density and eventually osteoporosis.

Mood

• Testosterone deficiency can affect various aspects of mood. Symptoms may include fatigue, trouble concentrating, mood swings or depression.