Content Health Encyclopedia University of Rochester Medical Center
Testosterone: Functions, deficiencies, and supplements
Men naturally need some estrogen, one of the main sex hormones that women have, in the body for bone health and other body functions. But too much estrogen can cause conditions such as gynecomastia (male breast tissue). Excess estrogen can also cause sleep apnea, edema (swelling), and acne. In some men, testosterone levels remain high throughout life, but in most they begin to decline at about age 40.
Some testosterone supplements have been shown to cause health conditions such as erectile dysfunction and kidney failure. If you experience any of these symptoms, you might start addressing the issue by asking your doctor, “What is a good testosterone level for a man my age? ” They can provide the figure and order a blood test to check your testosterone level. All TRT treatments are determined on an individual basis, based on your hormone levels and your doctor’s recommendations. Your clinician will determine the optimal dosages from the perceived benefits from the therapy and on the symptoms you’re experiencing.
By age 70, the average man’s testosterone is 30% below its peak, but it’s usually still within the normal range. That’s why many men in their 70s and beyond can father children. A synthetic testosterone for women is only licensed in Australia. In other countries, testosterone is given to women off-label, usually at one-tenth the dose given to men. Women who’ve taken testosterone usually report an increase in sexual desire. There don’t seem to be any benefits for women as far as energy, mood, or bone health. Meanwhile, men who are really hypogonad should receive testosterone, but other men should not.
Testicular or adrenal tumors can cause excess testosterone production. It also plays a significant role in red blood cell production. This helps to maintain healthy bone density, whilst regulating fat distribution and enhancing fat burn during physical activity. Like any medication, testosterone therapy has some risks, so you should only use it under a doctor’s care.
As mentioned above, one of the most common causes of high testosterone levels is testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) [2]. Testosterone therapy is typically only used for those living with hypogonadism, a condition where the body doesn’t produce enough testosterone. It’s rare for men to naturally have high testosterone, however. If they do, it’s usually due to testicular tumors or adrenal gland conditions.
It’s critical to be open and honest about your health history and medications. Some drugs, like bupropion (an antidepressant), insulin (for diabetes), and warfarin (a blood thinner used to reduce the formation of blood clots) can interact with oral testosterone. Your health information will help your doctor determine whether the oral route is best for you or if any adjustments need to be made. If you are concerned about low-T symptoms, or if you’ve tried therapies that didn’t work, talk with your primary care doctor or urologist. Feeling better starts with a conversation about your needs, goals, and lifestyle.
Low testosterone is diagnosed with a blood test to measure the amount of testosterone in the blood. It may take several measurements to determine if a patient has low testosterone as levels normally fluctuate throughout the day. The highest levels of testosterone are generally in the morning, near 8 a.m. As a man ages, the amount of testosterone produced in his body gradually drops. This natural decline starts after age 30 and continues at a rate of about 1% per year throughout his life.
Testosterone plays a number of important roles in your body. Low or high testosterone levels can have a significant impact on your well-being and longevity. It’s important to maintain balanced testosterone levels in order to live a long rpr dx w refl titer and confirmatory testing, keijikai.or.jp, healthy life.
The NowPatient virtual care platform provides you with access to trusted health information, affordable treatments, management of chronic health conditions and continuous monitoring for health risks. NowPatient can be accessed by downloading the App or using your web browser. They involve intramuscular injections, typically administered once a week. Some patients may opt for twice-weekly injections to maintain more stable testosterone levels.
