Normal Testosterone Levels and Symptoms of an Imbalance

Testosterone Levels By Age: Chart & How to Test

This can lead to a loss of strength and a decrease in overall physical performance. It is important to note that these changes in body composition can also be influenced by other factors such as diet and exercise, but low testosterone can certainly play a role. Approaches for testosterone imbalances typically consist of making healthy lifestyle changes and/or considering male testosterone deficiency symptoms replacement therapy. This therapy may involve the use of gels, injections, skin patches, oral testosterone, subdermal hormone pellets, buccal tablets, or testosterone nasal gels. Tumors, steroid use, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) in women, ovarian cancer, and adrenal or pituitary conditions may contribute to high testosterone levels.

Testosterone is also involved with the production of red blood cells and sperm and can decrease as a man ages. If you are worried about your testosterone levels, there are ways you can check them. This test involves having a sample of your blood drawn and sent to a laboratory for analysis. Your healthcare provider will usually order this test if they suspect you have low testosterone levels based on your symptoms, such as decreased libido, fatigue, or muscle weakness. In conclusion, normal testosterone levels vary based on age, sex, and individual health. For men, the normal range is typically between 300 to 1,000 ng/dL, whereas women generally have levels between 15 to 70 ng/dL.

Then, talk to your doctor about testosterone replacement therapy if you learn that your testosterone is low. Treatment is typically available in the form of a gel, patch, muscular injection, or edible tablet. For more tips from our Medical co-author, including how to know if you are at risk for low testosterone, scroll down.

Again, stand in front of a mirror, take off your shirt and focus on the chest area. Do you have toned pecks or have the size and shape of the breast area started to change? Answer this question honestly, test your testosterone level, and you’ll have more insight into it. Remember, with regular exercise you can tone your body, including the chest area, and enhance testosterone production. What‘s more, they might find that they are feeling less energetic throughout their day.

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle can also support optimal testosterone levels. Remember, collaboration with a healthcare professional is essential in developing an appropriate monitoring schedule and treatment plan. If an individual is experiencing symptoms of low testosterone, it is recommended to consult with a healthcare professional who specializes in hormone therapy or endocrinology.

Hone-affiliated medical practices are independently owned and operated by licensed physicians who provide services using the Hone telehealth platform. For more information about the relationship between Hone and the medical practices, click here. Dr. James R. Staheli is the Medical Director for Broad Health, Hone Health’s affiliated medical practice and a family medicine doctor in Atlanta, Georgia. We source research from peer-reviewed medical journals, top government agencies, leading academic institutions, and respected advocacy groups. We also go beyond the research, interviewing top experts in their fields to bring you the most informed insights. Every article is rigorously reviewed by medical experts to ensure accuracy.

Mood changes, such as irritability, depression, or a decrease in motivation, may also indicate low testosterone levels. Testosterone affects brain function and plays a role in mood regulation, so individuals with low testosterone levels may experience changes in their emotional well-being. If someone is experiencing persistent mood changes that are affecting their quality of life, it may be worth getting their testosterone levels checked. In addition to blood tests, saliva tests and urine tests are other methods used to measure testosterone levels. Saliva tests are a non-invasive alternative to blood tests and involve collecting saliva samples for analysis.

It is best to consult with a healthcare professional to determine how often you should have your testosterone levels checked based on your specific situation. Low testosterone, also known as hypogonadism, can cause a variety of symptoms. In men, common symptoms of low testosterone include low sex drive, erectile dysfunction, fatigue, depression, increased body fat, and decreased muscle mass.