Hypogonadism: Signs & Symptoms
Hypogonadism is a condition where the gonadal organs (the testes in men and the ovaries in women), don't function properly. The main function of the testes is to produce sperm, while the ovaries produce eggs. Both male and female gonadal organs produce the sex hormones that differentiate between men and women (testosterone and estrogen). Hypogonadism occurs when the body doesn't produce any or enough of these sex hormones.
Testosterone is responsible for a man's growth and development. A man may be born with hypogonadism, or it may be diagnosed in puberty or adulthood. Some common causes of hypogonadism are injury or disease to the testicles, pituitary gland or hypothalamus. Hypogonadism is thought to be one of the main fertility problems in men.
Dr. Richard Bebb, an endocrinologist active in the Men's Health Initiative of BC, provides the following signs and symptoms of hypogonadism in men:
- Fatigue and drop in energy
- Muscle weakness and sometimes muscle pain
- Drop in libido or interest in sex; decrease in sexual function
- Tendency to gain weight, particularly central body weight, which can increase a man's chance of developing diabetes, and have an adverse affect on cholesterol
If you recognize signs or symptoms of hypogonadism, contact a men's health provider near you.
Since testosterone impacts so many of the body’s functions, there are many symptoms associated with hypogonadism. These symptoms are divided into three categories: sexual symptoms, physical symptoms and psychological symptoms. All three categories of symptoms are listed below.
Sexual symptoms of hypogonadism include:
- reduced sex drive
- difficulty obtaining an erection
- difficulty maintaining an erection
- delayed orgasm
- reduced ejaculate volume
- low sperm count
- infertility
Physical symptoms may include:
- reduced muscle mass, power, and strength
- weakness
- muscle and joint aches
- increased fat or obesity
- enlarged, swollen, or tender breasts
- reduced facial, body and/or pubic hair
- decreased bone density, bone fractures or osteoporosis
- loss of height
- sleep apnea
- night sweats or hot flushes
- fatigue
Note: The physical symptoms of hypogonadism appear slowly and may take years to be noticeable. If you’re concerned that you may have any of these symptoms talk to your doctor.
Psychological symptoms of low testosterone may include:
- feeling irritable, sad, or depressed
- trouble with concentration and memory
These symptoms may be indications of other health problems other than hypogonadism. Loss of energy, sexual and otherwise, can result from many and multiple factors, like undiagnosed depression, worries about children, spouse or aging parents, chronic illness, substance abuse, financial worries, or work pressures. Take the time to find out what is causing your symptoms - the remedy may be easier than you think.
