Testosterone is a hormone that plays a key role in both male and female health. In men, it helps regulate bone mass, muscle strength, sex drive, and sperm production. In women, the production of this hormone is a lot less compared to that of men, but testosterone still plays an important role in sexual arousal, libido, and bone health for females.
Although testosterone is vital to men’s health, behavior and characteristics, having an overly high T-level can have detrimental health implications.
High T-Levels: Common Causes
It’s not unusual to hear that men, especially those over 40, start suffering from low testosterone levels with symptoms like fatigue and erectile dysfunction. Usually, this drop in testosterone is a common consequence of the aging process, and can also be affected by alcohol consumption and other unhealthy lifestyle habits. It is not as likely to hear from men suffering from high testosterone levels, and on the contrary elevated T-levels are often associated with very “manly” men. However, as with many things in life, balance is key.
Some men can have naturally high testosterone levels but they are still within a healthy range of this hormone and will not develop symptoms. Some other males can have their T-levels increase due to more complicated disorders like pituitary tumors and will require treatment or surgery. All this being said, it’s important to note that the most common cause of excessive testosterone levels in men is the use of anabolic steroids in the fitness industry and professional sports.
High T-Levels Can Lead To Severe Health Issues
As we’ve discussed earlier in this article, balance is key. Having low testosterone levels can be detrimental to a man’s general health, energy levels, and bedroom performance. But similarly, when a man has too much testosterone he can start developing problems such as:
- Liver disease
- Acne
- Low sperm count
- Shrinking of testicles
- Prostate enlargement that makes urination difficult
- High blood pressure
- Irritability
- Insomnia
Anabolic steroid users, usually athletes in professional sports or fitness and bodybuilding competitors, might experience these symptoms while using these performance-enhancing drugs. Getting tested regularly and speaking to your doctor about your results is imperative for a safe treatment, preventing further chronic conditions arising from suboptimal drug use practices.
Practices To Keep Your T-Levels in Optimal Range
The best way to optimize your natural hormone levels is by leading an active and healthy lifestyle. Working out 4-6 times per week which prioritizes strength training, eating a nutritious diet, and getting a good quality sleep every night will work wonders for your hormonal health.
If you decide to use anabolic steroids to increase your muscle mass and performance, ensure that you do so under the surveillance of a professional with appropriate testing frequency (at least every 3 months). Do not ignore unusual symptoms, since we’ve explained that although testosterone is the most important hormone for men, there is such a thing as too much T.
If your testosterone is too high, your doctor will modify the dosage of your treatment or prescribe you other medications to help bring your T-levels to an optimal range.
In Sum
If you are concerned about your testosterone levels and want to lower them, get your blood tested and speak with your doctor about your results. The first step is to identify the underlying cause of high testosterone levels in men and treat it accordingly. If this does not work, or if you have a condition that requires long-term therapy with medications that reduce testosterone production, your doctor will guide you through further testing and procedures appropriately.
Key Takeaways
- Excess testosterone is a lot less common than low testosterone in men.
- Although testosterone is an important male hormone, having T-levels over the optimal range also poses health risks.
- The use of anabolic steroids is the most common cause for elevated testosterone levels.
- Getting tested regularly (every three months) and following a professional’s advice while using anabolic steroids is the safest way to ensure best health.