Everyday signs of low testosterone in men as experts warn it is a key link to erectile dysfunction

A doctor has highlighted the major signs of low testosterone to keep an eye out for on a day-to-day basis.

Although the sex hormone is produced by both men and women, testosterone is primarily associated with the development of 'male characteristics' such as facial hair, sperm production and a deepening of the voice.

The hormone also plays a role in developing bone and muscle mass.

So in a nutshell, it's pretty important. Which is why concerns about low levels of testosterone may be a source of anxiety for men.

If this is the case then fear not, as one medical expert has outlined everyday symptoms of low testosterone and how you can amend it.

What is low testosterone, and what are the signs? (Getty Stock Images)

What is low testosterone and how does it occur?

Research from Harvard Health suggests that testosterone levels in men will peak during their latter teenage years (typically around age 17) and will remain at a similar level for the 'two to three decades'.

Some men will begin to experience a gradual decline in testosterone as they age, typically decreasing by one percent a year after the age of 40, while others will experience low testosterone throughout their lives.

Low testosterone can be caused by numerous things, with illness, injuries, stress and genetic conditions all playing a role in how the hormone is produced.

The condition is also referred to as testosterone deficiency or hypogonadism.

Testosterone levels will decrease for most men as they age, while others will experience low levels throughout their life (Getty Stock Images)

What are the signs of low testosterone?

According to Bupa, symptoms of testosterone deficiency can be displayed through a number of day-to-day symptoms, which include:

• fatigue
• a decrease in muscle mass
• symptoms of depression
• decrease in muscle mass as well as body hair growth
• difficulty concentrating
• weight gain, and an increase in breast tissue

Testosterone levels can be checked by doctors via a blood test, with physicians typically recommending lifestyle changes to improve symptoms.

These include cutting back on drinking or smoking, reducing stress and increasing physical activity.

Depending on how low your testosterone is and the causes, doctors can also refer you for testosterone replacement therapy.

Low testosterone has also been linked to erectile dysfunction (Getty Stock Images)

The link between low testosterone and erectile dysfunction

Another reason why you may want to maintain a healthy level of testosterone is due to its link with erectile dysfunction, which impacts up to one in five men in the UK.

Should your performance in the bedroom be a pressing concern for you, then check out five doctor-approved suggestions which could minimise issues around getting it up.