Low testosterone, which is technically called hypogonadism, occurs when the testicles don’t produce enough testosterone. There are many risk factors that can lead to low testosterone. There are steps you can take to reduce your risk, although you can’t eliminate it altogether.
Injury
Injury to the testicles can lead to low testosterone. Wear an athletic supporter, sometimes called a jock strap or cup, when playing sports like baseball, football, or hockey to protect your penis and testicles from injury. Talk to your doctor or coach if you’re not sure when you should wear a protective cup. Make sure it fits properly, because if it's too loose, it won’t provide adequate protection. If you do receive an injury to the testicles, see your doctor for treatment.
HIV
HIV (human immunodeficiency virus), the virus that causes AIDS (acquired immune deficiency syndrome), increases the risk of low testosterone. HIV is transmitted through certain body fluids, including blood and semen. Protect yourself from HIV by using condoms during sexual activity, wearing protective gloves if coming in contact with blood, and never sharing hypodermic needles with anyone else. If you work in the medical field, you should receive training on how to prevent exposure to HIV. Note that HIV is not spread through casual contact, such as shaking hands or drinking out of the same glass as someone with the condition.
Mumps
The mumps virus, named for the swollen facial glands it causes, is a known risk factor for low testosterone. If you were born after 1956, you were probably vaccinated against mumps as a child. If you weren’t vaccinated as a child, though, you can receive the vaccine as an adult. Ask your doctor or pharmacist about it.
Sleep Apnea
Untreated sleep apnea, a condition in which people briefly stop breathing in their sleep, is yet another risk factor for low testosterone. Sleep apnea is most common in obese people, so maintaining a healthy weight can decrease your risk of the condition. If you snore, wake up gasping for air during the night, feel excessively sleepy during the day, wake up in the morning with a very dry mouth or sore throat, or have been observed by another person to stop breathing during sleep, you should ask your doctor about the possibility of sleep apnea. The condition can usually be effectively treated, reducing the risk of low testosterone.
