Causes of Low-Level Testosterone

Testosterone is a normal substance produced by the testes and creates the secondary sex characteristics in males. Low-level testosterone can produce numerous problems in the male body. Some symptoms of a lack of this hormone include irritability, fatigue and decreased libido. There are several causes of low testosterone that can be blamed for these symptoms. This is important to know before you can seek treatment.

Medication Side Effects

• Certain medications can cause testosterone levels to decrease as a side effect. They do this by either causing damage to the vascular system, endocrine system or the nerves. Some of these drug types include tranquilizers, antidepressants and anti-hypertensives.

Testicular Dysfunction

• Another primary cause of low testosterone levels is testicular dysfunction. This is typically caused by damage or injury that is inflicted upon the testicles. If this area is damaged, the testicles are likely to stop producing testosterone altogether, which can dramatically reduce the levels in your body as a whole.

Elevated Cortisol Levels

• Cortisol is an adrenal hormone. When the levels of cortisol are elevated in the body, the overall level of testosterone in the body can decrease drastically.

Congenital Problems and Illness

• Sometimes, you can be born with conditions that cause low testosterone. Some of these conditions include malformation of the testicles and a naturally low hormone level. Some surgeries and illnesses can cause this hormonal shift as well such as cancer, certain infections and even head trauma.

Lifestyle Issues

• How you choose to live your life has a bearing on how much testosterone your body produces as well. Alcoholism, smoking, living a sedentary life and eating a diet high in fat and cholesterol can cause damage to your adrenal, pituitary or sexual glands, resulting in a lower testosterone level.