Testosterone is one of the most powerful hormones in your body, influencing everything from sexual wellbeing to muscle recovery and mental clarity. But like so many vital hormones, its levels can decline over time – and when that happens, you’ll feel it. A sluggish mood, poor sleep and low libido are just a few of the tell-tale signs.
However, if you’re not sure whether the symptoms you’re experiencing are really down to low T-levels, we’re here to help. The signs of low testosterone can overlap with those of other deficiencies, making it difficult to pinpoint the cause. Below, we’ve broken down six common low testosterone symptoms to look out for, plus an at-home blood test that gives you a clear, comprehensive picture of your health…
What are the signs of low testosterone?
1. Chronic fatigue or low energy
We all go through busy periods where we might expect to feel tired – maybe even burnt out – but if you’re dealing with chronic, unexplained fatigue, this could be a sign of low testosterone. The hormone plays a role in regulating your energy metabolism, so when your levels are down, it’s harder for your body to generate enough energy.
2. Low libido or sexual dysfunction
Testosterone is the primary sex hormone in men, so when T-levels are low, this can lead to a loss of libido and problems such as erectile dysfunction. But this common symptom doesn’t only affect men; while estrogen is the dominant sex hormone for women, testosterone still plays a crucial role in sexual arousal and wellbeing.
3. Difficulty building muscle mass
Protein synthesis – the process that repairs and builds muscle tissue – is partly fuelled by testosterone. So, when your T-levels are low, it’s harder for your body to gain muscle mass. This also affects your ability to recover from exercise, leading to longer-term injuries and discomfort.
4. Mood changes and irritability
Testosterone interacts with the ‘happy hormones’, dopamine and serotonin, which both send signals to your brain as a way of regulating your mood. When you have insufficient T-levels, you may not be getting the dopamine and serotonin hits you want. Meanwhile, your stress levels may increase, resulting in mood swings, irritability, and even depression.
5. Disrupted sleep
Serotonin and dopamine aren’t only responsible for feelings of happiness; they regulate your mood overall, including your ability to relax. Without the influence of testosterone, these neurotransmitters struggle to send calming signals to your brain, making it harder to fall or stay asleep, even when you’re tired.
6. Brain fog and lack of motivation
The link between T-levels and neurotransmitters can trigger another common problem: brain fog. When dopamine and serotonin activity drops, your mental clarity can also decline. Poor sleep, low mood and reduced energy further impact your cognitive function and ability to focus, leaving you feeling sluggish, tired, and lacking in motivation.
How do I tell if my testosterone is too low?
Many of the signs of low testosterone can also be linked to nutritional deficiencies. For example, if you’re not getting enough iron, fatigue, low mood and brain fog are all common side effects. So, in order to be sure if it’s low T-levels affecting how you feel, it’s important to get medical advice. At Cannaray, we offer at-home testosterone tests to help you get a full picture of what’s happening inside your body.
You have two options: the Men’s Health Essential Test and Men’s Health Complete Test both look at your testosterone levels. So, if this is your main focus, you can choose either test to suit your needs. But if you want a more comprehensive assessment that also checks your kidney, liver and thyroid function, as well as your ferritin, B12, folate and vitamin D levels, we recommend ordering the Men’s Health Complete Test.
The blood tests are quick, easy and painless, and once you’ve collected your sample, you can post it back to us in the prepaid packaging, ready for our team of doctors to review. They’ll then send your results, along with advice on next steps based on your body’s needs. If your testosterone levels are low, they may suggest, and go on to prescribe, testosterone replacement therapy (TRT).
How do I test my testosterone levels at home?
The Cannaray process is simple. Follow these steps:
1. Order the Men’s Health Essential Test or, for a more comprehensive health assessment, the Men’s Health Complete Test.
2. When your testosterone test kit arrives, follow the instructions on how to use it. At the click of a button, our quick, convenient device draws blood painlessly.
3. Post your blood sample to our labs with the prepaid packaging that comes with your kit.
4. Our doctors will test and assess your blood sample. You’ll receive an email when your results are ready.
5. If your testosterone levels are low, you may be invited for a consultation, during which you can request a prescription for testosterone replacement therapy.
Your Cannaray doctor will ensure you’re getting the right dosage for your needs, and monitor your progress on the medication.
How do I fix my low testosterone?
Testosterone replacement therapy is one of the most effective ways to improve T-levels, and it’s available in a range of formats, from injections to gels to tablets. Patients have reported noticeable changes in their overall wellbeing when taking TRT, with improved libido, boosted energy, and sharper focus being just some of the potential benefits.
But, because TRT is a medicine, it’s important that you seek advice from medical professionals. They can assess whether you’re eligible for treatment, prescribe the right dosage for your needs, and monitor how well you’re responding to therapy. Cannaray is with you every step of the way, with a team of doctors to help you get the right treatment for you.
Your journey starts with the Testosterone Tests. If you’re eligible for TRT, we’ll invite you for a medical consultation to begin your treatment plan.
