Learn about the various causes of low testosterone in men, including primary issues within the testicles and secondary factors involving the brain. Understanding these factors helps in early diagnosis and treatment to maintain male health and well-being.

Causes and Factors Contributing to Low Testosterone in Men

Testosterone plays a key role in male health, mainly produced by the testicles. It’s responsible for masculine characteristics, muscle and bone strength, facial and body hair, and deepening of the voice. It also affects libido, mood, erections, and sperm production.

What is low testosterone? Often referred to as hypogonadism, low-T occurs when the body does not produce enough testosterone naturally.

While testosterone levels decline gradually with age, dropping about 1% annually after age 30, other factors can contribute to lower levels. Low-T can be categorized as primary or secondary, each with specific causes.

Common causes of reduced testosterone

Primary hypogonadism originates from problems within the testicles, either congenital or acquired over time.

Undescended testicles: During fetal development, testicles form in the abdomen and should descend into the scrotum. Failure to do so can impair testosterone production.

Hemochromatosis: Excess iron buildup can damage testicular tissue or the pituitary gland, reducing testosterone levels.

Klinefelter Syndrome: A genetic disorder causing extra X chromosomes, leading to testicular abnormalities and low testosterone.

Injuries: Trauma to the testes might impair hormone synthesis, although damage to one testicle may not eliminate production entirely.

Cancer treatments: Chemotherapy and radiation therapy can temporarily or permanently suppress testosterone production.

Mumps Orchitis: Mumps-induced inflammation can harm testicular tissue and decrease testosterone output.

Secondary hypogonadism arises due to issues outside the testicles, mainly involving hormonal signals from the brain.

Obesity: Excess body fat, especially with BMI over 30, can reduce testosterone levels.

Kallmann Syndrome: A disorder caused by hypothalamic dysfunction affecting hormone release.

HIV/AIDS: These infections can disrupt brain pathways that regulate testosterone synthesis.

Pituitary disorders: Tumors or damage to the pituitary gland impair hormonal signaling.

Inflammatory diseases: Conditions like tuberculosis and sarcoidosis can interfere with hormone regulation.

Illness and stress: Physical or emotional illness and stress can disrupt hormonal balance, leading to decreased testosterone.