Before we go any further, we need to first explain what testosterone is.
Testosterone is known as the primary male sex hormone that is produced by men through their testes that is responsible for the development of masculine physical, sexual, and mental characteristics. However, testosterone is also produced by women in low concentrations through their ovaries.
It goes without saying that men produce higher concentrations of this hormone compared to women. It is also responsible for many of the sexual characteristics in men like facial hair and a deeper voice.
It also directly contributes to a healthy libido, muscle building, and maintaining your energy levels.
The problems that are connected with high levels of testosterone are rare in middle-aged and elderly men who are not receiving steroids or testosterone treatments. When the levels of the testosterone get out of balanced it normally becomes too low than too high.
Symptoms of low levels of testosterone
The decrease in the amount of testosterone in men normally happens because of age. It decreases by 1% to 2% every year.
Some men may not notice the decrease however for others they may experience significant changes that start from their 30’s up to their 60’s. This drop in the levels of their testosterone is called hypogonadism or most commonly known as male menopause.
The decline in testosterone levels may affect the following;
- Physical energy
- Strength
- Stamina
- Mental aggressiveness or alertness
- Increase in aches and pains in their bones or joints
- Weight gain
- A decrease in libido and erections
- Osteoporosis
Normal levels of testosterone
The normal range for male testosterone levels in general range between 270-1070 ng/dl with a standard level of 679 ng/dl. A normal level of testosterone for men usually peaks at the age of 20 and then it slowly begins to decline.
Any amount of testosterone that falls below or above the normal range is considered to be out of balance by many. Some researchers have suggested that the optimal amount of testosterone should be between 400-600 ng/dl.
Benefits of higher testosterone levels
Modest examples of benefits for men who have higher testosterone levels include;
- Normalized blood pressure
- Decreased chances of obesity and heart failures
Disadvantages of higher testosterone levels
The drawbacks from having high levels of testosterone are;
- Increase in alcohol consumption
- Men are most likely to engage in smoking
- Higher chances of getting injured
- Higher chances of taking up risky behaviors.
Anabolic steroids and its effect
Both men and women who use anabolic steroids to increase their athletic performance, or to increase their muscle mass may experience complications due to the high levels of testosterone such as:
- Hypertension
- Liver disease
- Aggression
- Polycythemia or a high count of red blood cells
- Skin infections
- Infertility
- Alteration of the sexual organ
Treatment for low testosterone
There is a readily available treatment for low levels of testosterone that your doctor or physician may recommend. These medications or treatments include the following:
- Injections
- Patches
- Gels
- Topical creams
Men that shouldn’t undergo testosterone therapy
Not every single man can be candidates or should undergo testosterone replacement therapy such as:
- Testosterone shouldn’t be used by men who are suspected of having prostate cancer or breast cancer.
- Men who have liver or kidney problems due to the increase in the risk of complications from these diseases.
Before you undergo any kind of testosterone treatment you should discuss with your doctor for them to determine if treatment is needed and if it is, what the right course of action would be.
Can testosterone therapy promote youth and vitality?
Men suffering from hypogonadism may benefit from receiving testosterone replacement therapy, but the jury is still out on whether testosterone replacement therapy can benefit otherwise healthy older men.
While some men feel they are more energetic, vigorous, and youthful by taking testosterone-boosting medications, there is little evidence that supports its use in healthy men.
Based on the guidance of the American College of Physicians, testosterone therapies may improve sexual function and performance in some ways for some men, but there is little evidence that supports the claim that it can improve other testosterone-related functions. Your mileage may vary.
How often should you check your testosterone levels?
Probably more often than you are currently doing. Some doctors recommend monitoring and checking your levels of testosterone every 5 years as soon as you hit 35 years old. This is a reasonable plan to follow.
If the levels of the testosterone are too low and the patient shows signs of any of the symptoms mentioned above, then testosterone therapy can be seriously considered.
But when the therapy has started the levels of your testosterone should be closely monitored for you to be sure that the levels of testosterone doesn’t get too high because when the testosterone levels get too high you may encounter more, although different complications.
Discuss this with your physician for you to be able to take the appropriate action required – he or she will help you determine the best way to treat your low testosterone levels.
There’s nothing to worry about discussing your concerns with your doctor – more men who are suffering from its symptoms have nothing to lose and everything to gain by getting a consultation from a qualified medical health professional.
