What is the Testosterone Level Test?
A testosterone test determines testosterone levels in the blood. Testosterone is the primary gender hormone in males. However, it is present in both genders. Regardless of gender, low or excessive testosterone levels can cause health concerns.
Normal Testosterone Levels: Testosterone levels within a specific range are necessary for the proper functioning of the body.
Health Issues Caused by Imbalance: Whether it's too low or too high, imbalanced testosterone levels can result in various health problems, regardless of gender.
Symptoms that Trigger Testing: If someone shows symptoms that indicate abnormal testosterone levels, a doctor may order a testosterone test to investigate further.
Roles in Males: During male puberty, testosterone plays a vital role in promoting hair and muscle growth, as well as contributing to voice changes. In adults, it helps regulate sex drive, maintain muscle mass, and support sperm production.
Roles in Females: Testosterone is essential for bone and muscle growth, as well as overall organ health in females.
Other names: total testosterone, bioavailable testosterone, serum testosterone, free testosterone.
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Get A Second OpinionWhat are testosterone levels tested for?
A testosterone level test, in combination with another test, may be used to:
- Identify the cause of symptoms that could be caused by either too high or too low testosterone levels.
- To identify the cause of the issue in children and adolescents:
- -Early puberty
- -Delayed puberty
- Testosterone testing can also be used to keep track of your health if you:
- Have previously had an abnormal testosterone test
- Have already had an abnormal testosterone test
- Take testosterone as part of the masculinizing hormone therapy, transgender person (also called gender-affirming hormone therapy)
CD4 count is also used to:
- Track your ongoing medical treatment after an organ transplant: You will need to take medication if you've undergone an organ transplant to stop your immune system from fighting the new organ. Immunosuppressants or "anti-rejection" pharmaceuticals are the names given to these medications. These drugs may potentially be used to treat certain autoimmune illnesses. Low CD4 counts indicate that the treatment is effective.
- Aid in the diagnosis of various lymphoma forms: The sort of immune cells producing lymphoma can be identified using a CD4 count together with additional tests. The test findings aid in selecting the best course of action.
- Aid in identifying DiGeorge syndrome: This is a rare hereditary illness that frequently results in immunological issues and other disorders that manifest at birth.
Why do I need a testosterone level test?
If people show abnormal testosterone levels this test is needed:
The test is mostly used in men who have completed puberty to look for signs of low T levels (testosterone levels that are too low). With age, testosterone levels often decrease. Low T, however, can also be caused by other medical conditions, such as thyroid disorders, chronic sickness, or testicular problems. Common symptoms could appear as follows:
- Infertility
- Lack of face or body hair
- Loss of muscle mass
- Erectile dysfunction
- Enlarged breasts
- Thinning bones or anaemia
The test is used on females who exhibit signs of elevated T levels, such as:
- Acne
- Hair growth on the face or body that is abnormal
- A voice that gets lower
- Infertility (difficulty getting pregnant)
- Hair loss on the head that may be like male-pattern baldness (hair loss at the temples and balding on the top of the head)
- Irregular or no menstrual periods
What happens when testosterone levels are measured?
The best time to collect blood for a testosterone test is between 7 and 10 in the morning, and the testosterone levels are usually at their maximum at this time.
A small needle will be used by a medical professional to draw blood from a vein in the arm. After the needle is inserted, a small amount of blood will be collected in a test tube or vial. The needle may sting somewhat when it enters or exits the body, and usually, this only takes a few minutes.
How do I get ready for the test?
In some cases, individuals may be required to fast (not eat or drink) for many hours before the test. Inquire with the provider about how to prepare for a testosterone level test.
Are there any risks to the test?
A blood test poses relatively little risk. Individuals may experience pain or bruising where the needle was inserted, but most symptoms will resolve quickly.
What do the results mean?
The test results may indicate a range of things based on the test, the age, the symptoms, the results of additional tests, and any other conditions one may have. As a result, it is best to ask the provider to discuss the test results.
A testosterone level test cannot detect any health concerns on its own, but abnormal results combined with symptoms may indicate a problem.
In males, low T levels may be caused by:
- A pituitary gland disorder
- Injury to the testicles
- Alcohol use disorder
- Chronic (long-lasting) diseases such as liver disease or kidney disease
- Benign tumors (not cancer)
- Certain genetic diseases
In females, low T levels are normal, but severely low levels may indicate
- A pituitary gland disorder
- An adrenal gland disorder
- An ovarian disorder
In males, high T levels may be caused by:
- Steroid use
- A tumour in the testicles
- An adrenal gland disorder
In females, high T levels may be caused by:
- Ovarian cancer
- Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
- A disorder of the pituitary gland
- An adrenal gland disorder
If the results are out of the normal, it does not automatically imply that you have a medical issue that requires treatment. It's normal for testosterone levels to fall as individuals become older. Additionally, certain medications can have an impact on the results. Talk with the healthcare provider if you have any questions regarding the outcomes.
Additional information about a testosterone level test
Test-at-home kits for measuring testosterone levels are available without a prescription. The kits include everything you need to obtain a blood or saliva (spit) sample for testing at a lab. If you suspect you require testing, consult with the provider. If you conduct a home test, please share the results with the health provider.
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Book an AppointmentFrequently Asked Questions
Exercise offers numerous health advantages and has been shown to boost plasma testosterone concentrations.
Side effects of medications include chemotherapy, injury to the testicles or malignancy, and issues with the brain's hormone-producing glands (hypothalamus and pituitary).
The cost of a total testosterone test in India varies depending on the city. A testosterone test costs between Rs. 350 and Rs. 800 on average.
A blood sample collected from a vein can be used to evaluate the level of the hormone testosterone in your blood. The doctor performs a testosterone blood test to diagnose diseases caused by too much or too little testosterone in the body.
Eggs, especially nutrient-dense yolks, provide the cholesterol, protein, and vitamin D required for testosterone production. There is no limit to how many eggs one can consume daily, but for most individuals, 1-2 per day is a good place to start.
However, testosterone levels can go incredibly low, and this can weaken the bones and muscle mass, increase sexual problems, and lead to various health problems. If not treated, low testosterone can be dangerous.
An increased intake of vitamin D will most likely have little effect on testosterone concentration in most men, but men with vitamin D insufficiency may consider taking vitamin D supplements to increase testosterone concentration and possibly fertility.
If you notice any unusual symptoms, such as hair loss, weight loss, or acne, especially if you're under 40, you should have your testosterone levels tested. A test can assist in determining whether underlying illnesses, health issues, or lifestyle choices interfere with testosterone production.
Testosterone can raise blood pressure, increasing the chances of having a heart attack or stroke. You may need to discontinue testosterone use or begin using blood pressure medication. To improve athletic performance, testosterone should not be utilized.
Yes! Because of excessive amounts of testosterone, Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) can result in recurrent miscarriages. Insulin resistance caused by PCOS can potentially harm the uterine lining.
