Symptoms of Low Testosterone After 40

Testosterone is an essential hormone for men’s health. It significantly affects your energy levels, mood, and overall well-being. But as you age, testosterone levels naturally drop — a process that can bring some frustrating and unexpected changes. 

While this drop is normal, some men experience symptoms that interfere with their daily lives. 

If you’re over 40 and feeling off, low testosterone (low T) might be to blame. Dr. Philip Weintraub and our team at Urology Associates Medical Group are here to help, and we want to highlight a few of the warning signs of low T so you can get treatment quickly.

Why does testosterone drop after 40?

Testosterone levels typically peak in your late teens and early 20s. After 30, most men experience a 1% decrease per year. This slow decline is a natural part of aging, but some experience a drop so severe it leads to noticeable symptoms.  

Certain factors can speed up this decline, such as:

• Chronic stress
• Poor sleep habits
• Lack of exercise
• Excess body fat
• Certain medical conditions, like diabetes or sleep apnea

Recognizing the signs of low T is important because symptoms can sometimes be mistaken for general aging or other health issues. 

If you’re over 40, pay close attention to what your body is trying to tell you. If you notice any of these warning signs, make an appointment with us as soon as possible. 

Low energy and fatigue

Are you feeling constantly drained or struggling to get through your day? It could be a hormone issue. Low T can zap your energy levels, leaving you feeling sluggish even after a full night’s sleep.

Decreased sex drive

A noticeable drop in libido is one of the most common signs of low T. If your interest in sex has faded significantly, it could be linked to declining testosterone levels.

Erectile dysfunction

While testosterone isn’t the only factor involved in achieving an erection, low T can significantly affect your sexual functioning. 

Mood changes

Testosterone helps regulate mood, so low levels may lead to irritability, anxiety, or even depression. Talk to us if you notice changes in your mental and emotional health, and we’ll check for a hormone issue.

Loss of muscle mass

Your muscles need testosterone to stay toned. When testosterone drops, you may notice your strength decreasing, even if you’re sticking to your workout routine.

Increased body fat

As testosterone levels drop, fat distribution can change. Many men with low T develop extra weight around the abdomen, particularly in their abdomen. 

Trouble sleeping

Low T can disrupt your sleep patterns, making it harder to fall and/or stay asleep throughout the night. This can create a frustrating cycle — poor sleep lowers testosterone levels even further.

Brain fog or memory issues

Testosterone also plays a role in cognitive function. If you’re low on testosterone, it can affect focus, memory, and mental clarity.

Decreased bone density

As with your muscles, testosterone helps maintain strong bones. Low levels increase your risk of fractures and osteoporosis, especially as you age.

Hair loss

While genetics is the leading cause of hair loss, low T can contribute to thinning hair or bald spots, particularly on your body or face.

Experiencing one or two of these symptoms doesn’t automatically mean you have low T. But if you’re noticing multiple changes that are affecting your quality of life, it’s time to talk to one of our specialists.

We can evaluate your symptoms and order a simple blood test to check your testosterone levels. We also consider other possible causes, such as thyroid issues, medication side effects, or lifestyle factors.

What can you do about low T?

There are effective treatments for low testosterone. Depending on your symptoms and lab results, we can recommend one or more of the following:

Lifestyle changes

For some men, improving sleep, reducing stress, and following a healthier diet can significantly boost testosterone levels. Strength training and regular exercise are especially effective.

Testosterone replacement therapy

If your testosterone levels are significantly low, we often recommend testosterone replacement therapy, which comes in several forms, including:

• Gels or creams applied directly to the skin
• Injections (given weekly or monthly)
• Patches (worn daily)
• Pellets implanted under the skin for slow-release testosterone

We help you choose the best option for your lifestyle and medical needs.

Treating underlying conditions

Sometimes, addressing other health concerns — like weight gain, sleep apnea, or diabetes — can improve testosterone levels naturally. 

Taking control of your hormonal health

If you’re over 40 and noticing changes in your energy, mood, or overall well-being, don’t brush it off as just getting older. Low testosterone is common, but it’s not something you have to live with.

By recognizing the signs and seeking professional help, you can improve your energy, regain strength, and feel like yourself again. 

If you’re concerned about your testosterone levels, call 818-853-9659 to speak with one of our friendly staff members and schedule an appointment at our Burbank, California, office.