What is the normal testosterone level in men?
Testosterone plays a vital role in male development and reproductive health. Understanding the different testosterone levels at different stages in life is important. If the testosterone level is low (hypogonadism) in men, it may lead to serious health problems, including loss of sex drive, less muscle mass, and reduced energy and sex drive.
The information below covers what testosterone is, what it does, the normal testosterone levels and what to do if your body doesn’t produce sufficient testosterone.
What is testosterone?
Testosterone is the hormone responsible for sexual and physical development in men. Men produce this hormone in the testicles, and those with normal testosterone levels can grow hair on the face, and it affects the development of muscle mass.
Developing naturally elevated testosterone levels is rare, especially for older men, but low testosterone levels are more common.
What are the effects of low testosterone levels?
Different symptoms may be present when testosterone is low, and your doctor may order a testosterone test London to confirm your testosterone levels. The symptoms include:
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Reduction in sex drive
People with low testosterone levels usually lose the urge to engage in sexual activities.
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Less semen
Testosterone is essential in semen production.
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Low energy
People with reduced testosterone levels feel tired easily.
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Hair loss
Hair loss on the face, body and head affects people with low testosterone levels.
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Weight gain
Men who do not produce enough testosterone may gain more weight.
Erectile dysfunction (ED) and low testosterone levels
Testosterone levels do not directly affect erection but stimulate receptors in the brain responsible for triggering arousal.
A study reports low testosterone may have a link to chronic conditions, even in men below 40 years. Another study reported low testosterone levels to have a link to more severe COVID-19 cases.
Having a problem with getting or maintaining erections doesn’t always mean a low testosterone level. Different reasons, including psychological and physiological, may be responsible for erection issues. For example, high blood pressure may lead to ED.
What are the normal testosterone levels for men of different ages?
The measure of testosterone following a testosterone blood test UK is in nanograms per decilitre (ng/dL). Health experts report that the testosterone level in men should be at least 300ng/dL. Any value below this indicates a low testosterone level.
The testosterone level usually peaks in the teenage years, usually 18 – 19 years, then gradually declines. However, the body may start producing testosterone from infancy because the hormone is responsible for male reproductive system development.
The normal testosterone levels for males are:
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Children
In the first few months, the male body produces about 75 – 400ng/dL. By ages 10 – 11, the testosterone level should be 7 – 130ng/dL.
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Early teens
Between ages 12 – 13, the testosterone levels should be 7 – 800ng/dL, but by ages 15 – 16, testosterone levels should be 100 – 1,200.
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Late teens
At ages 17 – 18, the normal testosterone levels are 300 – 1200ng/dL.
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Adults
Adults from 19 and above should have a testosterone level between 240 – 950ng/dL.
The ideal time for testosterone testing is between 7 – 10 am because testosterone levels peak during this period.
Treatment for low testosterone levels in men
Different treatment options are available for low testosterone production, including low testosterone therapy. The treatments are available in different forms, such as gels, pellets, creams, injections and patches.
Ensure you consult your doctor if you experience low testosterone symptoms and need testosterone therapy. A gradual decline in testosterone level as you age is normal, but abnormal testosterone levels may lead to serious health issues.
Natural options to boost testosterone levels
Some natural remedies may help improve your testosterone levels, but they are usually effective if combined with medical treatments like testosterone replacement therapy.
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Exercise regularly
Exercising can prevent the loss of testosterone or raise their levels to the normal range. People engaging in regular physical activities tend to have higher testosterone levels than people who do not exercise.
Research shows a significant difference in testosterone levels between men who have inactive lifestyles and those who exercise regularly. Weight lifting is considered the best exercise to increase testosterone and prevent weight gain.
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Diet change
A diet that aids fat loss can improve testosterone levels. People dealing with low testosterone may consider switching to a weight loss diet. Ensure you eat lots of protein. Paired with high-resistance training, a carbs diet may also be beneficial.
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Reduce stress levels
Stress increases cortisol levels, which reduces testosterone levels. Opt for activities that reduce stress, such as getting enough sleep and a healthy lifestyle.
Getting vitamin D from sunlight can also help boost testosterone levels.
Possible risks of testosterone replacement therapy
Testosterone replacement therapy helps in treating testosterone issues in men but isn’t suitable for some people with certain health issues. Men at risk of some types of cancer, such as prostate cancer, may require alternate treatment for testosterone issues.
Men with severe liver, heart or kidney issues may also need an alternative treatment. This makes consulting a professional healthcare provider to assess your health and determine if you are a good candidate for testosterone replacement therapy.
Why is testosterone testing important?
Doctors recommend testosterone testing for men at age 35 and every five years. If you undergo hormone replacement therapy, close monitoring is necessary to ensure the testosterone level doesn’t get high.
When treatment starts, taking steps to balance the testosterone level is important, so an experienced medical professional should be involved in the treatment.
If you experience symptoms of low testosterone, ensure you book testosterone test at Private Blood Tests London. Call us today on 020 7182 0244 to schedule the appointment.
