Testosterone is a hormone that plays a vital role in the physiological functions of both men and women. In men, it is produced in the testicles and helps to regulate muscle and bone mass, sexual drive, and sperm production. In women, about half of testosterone is synthesized in the ovaries and adrenal glands, and it is instrumental in regulating mood, energy levels, bone strength, and sex drive.
The healthy testosterone levels in males should range between 300 and 1,000 nanograms per deciliter of blood. Having an excess amount of testosterone is relatively rare in men, but a deficiency, also known as testosterone deficiency syndrome or low testosterone (low-T), is more common.
Symptoms of low-T can manifest in several ways, such as erectile dysfunction, fatigue, reduced lean muscle mass, low sexual drive, mood swings that include depression, and thinning of bones.
In women, the typical testosterone levels should range from 15 to 70 nanograms per deciliter. Unlike in men, high testosterone levels are more common in women. One such condition associated with elevated testosterone levels is polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), where cysts develop on the ovaries.
Symptoms of PCOS include acne, excess body hair growth, hair thinning or loss, infertility, irregular or absent menstrual periods, and pelvic pain.
Women can also experience low testosterone levels, often resulting from menopause, problems in specific endocrine glands, or the removal of the ovaries.
Various factors can influence testosterone levels. Certain prescription medications, health conditions, or injuries can potentially affect a person’s testosterone levels. For instance, low testosterone might be linked to chronic diseases like Type 2 diabetes, particularly when not adequately managed, obesity or extreme weight loss, issues with the hypothalamus, pituitary gland, and thyroid which all impact hormone function, and obstructive sleep apnea or other sleep problems.
On the other hand, high testosterone levels might be caused by androgen insensitivity syndrome, a condition where a person biologically male is resistant to male hormones, ovarian tumors, and testicular tumors.
If you suspect you may have abnormal testosterone levels, it is vital to seek professional help. An endocrinologist can conduct blood tests to accurately measure your testosterone levels and provide a precise diagnosis.
They will consider the root cause of the hormonal imbalance and any symptoms causing distress before crafting a personalized treatment plan. For instance, testosterone replacement therapy can help raise low testosterone levels.
Birth control pills can assist in reducing testosterone and control other symptoms associated with high testosterone, such as irregular periods.
In addition to medical interventions, certain lifestyle modifications can contribute to the regulation of testosterone production. These include maintaining a balanced diet, regular exercise, ensuring seven to nine hours of high-quality sleep each night, getting adequate vitamin D from sunlight or supplements, maintaining a healthy weight, and reducing stress.
Testosterone plays a vital role in the physiological functions of both men and women. Abnormalities in its levels can significantly impact an individual’s quality of life and may signal more serious health conditions. Understanding the symptoms and risk factors associated with testosterone abnormalities is critical in identifying potential problems and seeking timely intervention. Treatment options, in conjunction with healthy lifestyle practices, can effectively manage these conditions and support individuals in maintaining their overall health and well-being.
1st Floor, Millennium Square,
Lumbini Avenue, Gachibowli,
Hyderabad, Telangana 500032
