Recognizing the Correlation Between Sleep Deprivation and Low T
Identifying and Treating Symptoms of Low Testosterone
There are many notable symptoms of low testosterone, and recognizing the signs early ensures quicker and more effective treatments. Also, treating low T in the beginning stages means men can avoid several undesirable complications down the road.
Sleep deprivation is one issue men must confront promptly, as it has a significant impact on normal hormone production.
Sleep and Low T: A Vicious Cycle
All men experience times of fatigue and an inability to concentrate. Sometimes, all that’s needed is more sleep. In other situations, low testosterone could be the culprit.
It is imperative for men to determine which issue they need to address because there is, unfortunately, a correlation between sleep deprivation and low T.
It turns out that a lack of sleep can be both an indicator of low testosterone and a cause. Fewer hours of rest can impede normal hormone production, while a decrease in testosterone can make it difficult to sleep.
If you are having trouble sleeping at night or wake up feeling fatigued, contact our Low T Medical Clinic experts today. We’ll identify the source of the problem and determine if you need to treat a sleep disorder or low testosterone.
How Sleep Deprivation Causes Low Testosterone
A study conducted by the University of Chicago Medical Center and published in the Journal of the American Medical Association revealed just how significant the impact of sleep deprivation is on hormone production.
Ten healthy men, with an average age of 24, were restricted to less than five hours of sleep for just one week. Upon review, researchers found testosterone levels had dropped 10-15%, or the equivalent of aging 10-15 years.
In addition to lower hormone levels, study participants were also reporting a noticeable drop in libido. These men had diminished energy, poor concentration, decreased strength and were fatigued.
Sleep deprivation isn’t the only cause of low testosterone; sleep disturbances cause problems too.
Sleep apnea is a common sleep disorder. This chronic condition is caused by brief pauses in breathing. Pauses can last from a few seconds to a minute, with as many as 30 pauses happening in an hour. Breathing resumes normally after these pauses, but the short disturbances cause a long-lasting effect.
Sleep apnea is a leading cause of low testosterone. One study found men with sleep apnea are 50% more likely to also have low testosterone than men who have restful sleep habits.
Rowena A. DeSouza, MD, interpreted study findings with the following observation: healthy testosterone production is dependent on restful, undisturbed sleep. She also pointed out, “Over time, sleep disturbance can cause an increase in the stress hormone cortisone. High cortisone levels also can cause low testosterone.”
Tips for Improving Sleep Habits
If you’d like to improve your sleep habits to reduce the odds of low testosterone or what to minimize the effects of already depleted hormone levels, there are several suggested ways to obtain a more restful night’s sleep.
- Make a conscious effort to receive seven to nine hours of sleep every night.
- Create a sleeping routine. Go to bed at the same time every night and wake at the same predetermined time. Maintain this schedule, even through the weekends.
- Check your bedroom’s ambiance. The room should be quiet and dark. Also, set the thermometer for a comfortable temperature.
- Limit distractions while in bed. Don’t read, watch TV, or use electronic devices.
- Use the bed for just two things: sleeping and sex.
- Limit food intake in the hours prior to sleep. Eating a large meal can impede restful sleep.
Is it Time to Get Help?
If you suffer from fatigue, struggle to fall and stay asleep, or lack concentration, contact Low T Medical Clinic today. We’ll help you determine the best course of treatment and create a lifestyle that encourages optimal hormone health.