Signs Of High Testosterone In A Man

What Is Testosterone?

Testosterone is a sex hormone produced in the testicles among males, which plays a major role in the development of male reproductive tissues.

Testosterone helps to develop bone mass, muscle mass, strength, and regulates sex drive. Additionally, it is involved in sperm production as well.

Normally, the production of testosterone increases during puberty and gradually decreases with age. Even thyroid function can also affect the testosterone level. 

How To Determine Testosterone Level?

The blood test can easily determine the testosterone level in the body. Since its level decreases gradually during the daytime, this blood test is usually performed in the morning time. This blood test can determine the amount of free testosterone (approximately 2% molecules that are not bound to either SHBG or albumin) circulating in the bloodstream.

According to the American Urological Association (AUA) guidelines, the normal level of testosterone in men would range between 300 nanograms per deciliter (ng/dl) and 1000 nanograms per deciliter (ng/dl). 

Levels higher than 1000ng/dl are considered high testosterone levels. 

Causes Of High Testosterone

High levels of testosterone can be caused by underlying health conditions that increase testosterone in the body. These conditions include: 

• Benign or cancerous tumor growth near hormonal glands (such as the adrenal gland or testicles)
• Congenital adrenal hyperplasia (enlarged adrenal glands)
• Cushing syndrome (acromegaly) 

Other causes of high testosterone levels include: 

• Using anabolic steroids to build muscles and/or boost athletic performance
• Taking testosterone boosters or supplements 
• Being on Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT) 

What Are The Signs Of High Testosterone In A Man?

Both the pituitary gland and hypothalamus regulate the production of testosterone in males. The most common cause of high testosterone levels in men is testosterone replacement therapy (TRT). However, certain causes such as thyroid disorder, the occurrence of a testicular or adrenal tumor, or taking steroids can increase the level of testosterone.

If your testosterone levels are between 300 and 1000 nanograms per deciliter of blood (ng/dL), this is considered to be within the normal range. However, if your testosterone level exceeds 1000 ng/dL, it is considered to be high.

Here is the list of 7 signs of high testosterone in men:

1. Acne Development

Elevation in testosterone level can increase the production of sebum in the body, which leads to the development of pimples due to the clogging of excess sebum with dead skin cells followed by its inflammation.

As mentioned already, testosterone level increases during the puberty stage which leads to acne breakouts.

2. Fluctuations In Blood Pressure

High testosterone levels can reduce your blood pressure level, thereby causing dizziness, fatigue, and headache. It may also increase your blood pressure putting you at a high risk of stroke and heart attack.

3. Development Of Body Hair

An increase in testosterone level may increase excess hair growth in the face, chin, or back region. This excess hair growth becomes very dark and coarse as well. Some people may also experience baldness. 

4. Mood Swings

Testosterone plays a vital role in maintaining your mood. An increase or decrease in testosterone level might cause mood swings such as anxiety, irritability, or depression.

5. Reduced Sperm Count

An increase in testosterone level can affect the size of the testicle, which leads to a reduction in sperm count due to the shortage in the follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) required for sperm production.

6. Sleep Apnea

It is a sleep disorder where the individual will stop breathing repeatedly while sleeping. The higher the testosterone level, the greater the chance of undergoing sleep apnea which causes signs such as irritability, loud snoring, morning headache, excessive daytime sleepiness, gasping for air during sleep.

7. Breast Enlargement

Both high and low level testosterone can cause enlargement of one or both breasts. Although breast enlargement can affect anyone, this condition is most common among men aged between 50 and 69.

Are There Any Benefits To High Testosterone?

As mentioned earlier, testosterone levels within the range of 300 to 1000 nanograms per deciliter of blood (ng/dL) is considered normal. Levels exceeding 1000 ng/dL are considered high. However, if your testosterone level is at the higher end of the normal range, you might experience the following benefits:

1. Fat Loss And Increased Muscle Mass 

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Testosterone plays a significant role in increasing muscle mass and strength. Having a higher level of testosterone can potentially help you build and maintain muscle more effectively. You might also see a decrease in fat mass as well. 

2. Stronger Bones 

Testosterone plays a crucial role in bone mineral density. As men age, their testosterone levels decline, which subsequently reduces bone density, potentially increasing the risk of developing osteoporosis.

Having higher testosterone levels can potentially improve bone density and reduce the risk of osteoporosis and fractures. Clinical studies investigating the effects of testosterone on bone density have shown that elevated testosterone levels can lead to improvements in spinal and hip bone density.

3. Improved Cognitive Function 

Testosterone may play a role in cognitive function, including memory and spatial abilities. There is evidence to suggest that higher testosterone levels may be associated with better cognitive performance in verbal memory and processing speed.

4. Improved Sexual Health 

Testosterone is responsible for sexual desire (libido) and sexual function in men. If you are currently undergoing testosterone therapy, you might experience an improvement to your sexual health and performance. 

5. Improved Mood And Wellbeing 

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While the impact of testosterone therapy on mood can vary person to person, some have reported that the higher level of testosterone has led to an improvement in mood, a reduction in fatigue and irritability, and improvement to cognitive function.

When Should You See A Doctor?

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If you are experiencing the above-listed symptoms, it shows that your testosterone level is high. Hence, you should consult the doctor right away.

To start with, the doctors will treat your symptoms to bring down the effect of high testosterone. They will also make you stop the consumption of medications or steroids that might raise your testosterone level.

At the same time, you should make changes in your lifestyle such as eating nutrient-rich foods and getting regular exercise to bring your testosterone level to normal naturally.

In case, the testosterone spike occurs due to a tumor, the doctor might suggest undergoing a tumor removal surgery.

Is It Safe To Take Viagra (Sildenafil) When Testosterone Level Is High?

No. A 2013 research study reported that Viagra (Sildenafil) could be associated with an increase in testosterone level.

The Word From Noah

Make sure to visit the doctor if you are experiencing the above-listed signs of high testosterone. 

Here at Noah, doctors on our platform have the right skills and experience to determine whether testosterone level is high, based on your medical history, laboratory test findings, and concerns. We will be carrying a testosterone test kit to check the level of testosterone. After ascertaining the root cause of your high testosterone level, doctors on our platform will recommend the appropriate treatment.