The image of low testosterone evokes expected symptoms like sexual dysfunction, decreased strength and depression. However, low testosterone may also present with symptoms not normally associated with a hormonal imbalance.

Low T is exactly as the name describes – a lower than normal amount of testosterone is present in the body. It can happen for a variety of reasons including but not limited to obesity, diabetes and chronic medical conditions. Well-known symptoms of Low T are sexual dysfunction, libido decrease, hair loss and loss of muscle mass.

However, as researchers continue to explore the relationship between testosterone and male physiology, they are finding that the hormone plays a critical role in factors outside of sexual function. The following are lesser-known symptoms of low testosterone:

1. Disordered Sleeping – Low T is known to cause any number of sleep disturbances ranging from sleep apnea or insomnia. Research has shown that the majority of testosterone is produced during REM sleep. If the sleep cycle is interrupted, the testosterone production is also interrupted. The net result is the production of less testosterone. It’s not unusual for Low T sufferers to also suffer from sleep apnea.

2. Hot Flashes – . . . Aren’t just for women? Those nights of waking up with soaked sheets or fighting with a spouse because 75 degrees now feels inhumane are likely liked to Low T. A drop in testosterone can be linked to normal aging or receiving treatment for prostate cancer called Androgen Deprivation Therapy. Most men experience an extremely slow decline in testosterone after the age of 40 but men with more rapid decreases may experience symptoms akin to menopause.

3. Difficulty Concentrating – Having trouble finishing that report? Is your memory slipping? Low T is linked to cognitive impairment. The exact relationship between Low T and cognitive ability hasn’t yet been determined but evidence is showing a positive correlation between the two. Hormones play an incredibly important role in cognition, memory and spatial relationships. As is the case with much of the human body, it’s a complicated process and if one of the pieces is deficient, function is impaired.
Physicians can determine if you’re (or someone you know) is suffering from Low T with a simple blood test. The most common form of treatment is testosterone replacement in the form of skin patches, gel or injections.

It’s not the easiest subject to broach with your doctor. Sexual dysfunction issues are embarrassing but opting not to discuss it with your doctor just prolongs a possible diagnosis and treatment. Today’s social health culture is heavily reliant on social media and media awareness campaigns. While that doesn’t necessarily make it easier to discuss private issues, there is less of a stigma with such sensitive concerns.

A little planning and preparation can make the entire process a little easier. Keep the following tips in mind when you talk to your doctor about low testosterone:

1. Write down your symptoms and concerns beforehand. Because your time is limited, it’s easier if you have the information readily available in front of you. When time is of the essence, memory often fails.
2. Make sure your physician is comfortable treating Low T and if not, ask for a referral for a physician who specializes in sexual health.
3. Take notes. It’s incredibly common to walk out of a patient room only to find that you’ve forgotten everything that was discussed by the time you reach your car.
4. Take a list of current prescriptions with you for your doctor to review as possible contributors to your symptoms. Preparing a list beforehand eliminates having to remember dosages and drug strength.
5. Ask your physician to explain the available treatments and associated risks for Low T.
6. If you’re seeing your primary care physician, make a specific appointment to discuss your hormonal concerns. Typically, yearly physical appointments only allot so much time for a general overview. You’ll have more time to discuss symptoms and treatment options with a dedicated appointment.
7. Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Invariably, you’ll think of questions after your appointment. Ask your doctor during your appointment the best way to address those questions that crop up later.
8. Remember that you don’t have to agree to treatment immediately. Take time to think about it, do your own research and/or consult with your partner.
9. If your physician doesn’t already have your health history, bring it with you. There are a number of health issues (namely cardiovascular issues and Type II diabetes) that carry a higher risk of Low T.

If you think you might be suffering from low testosterone, don’t wait to address it. Testosterone affects mood, weight, energy levels and libido. All of these contribute to a higher quality of life and overall health.