Testosterone Test: Free & SHBG, High vs Low vs. Normal Levels 7 Ways You Can Test Testosterone Level without Seeing a Doctor This can lead to a loss of strength and a decrease in overall physical performance. It is important to note that these changes in body composition can also be influenced by other factors such as diet and exercise, but low testosterone can certainly play a role. Approaches for testosterone imbalances typically consist of making healthy lifestyle changes and/or considering testosterone replacement therapy. This therapy may involve the use of gels, injections, skin patches, oral testosterone, subdermal hormone pellets, buccal tablets, or testosterone nasal gels. Tumors, steroid use, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) in women, ovarian cancer, and adrenal or pituitary conditions may contribute to high testosterone levels. As men age, their testosterone levels naturally decrease, which can lead to a variety of symptoms such as fatigue, decreased libido, and reduced muscle mass. The frequency of testosterone level checks may vary depending on individual circumstances. In general, it is recommended to have testosterone levels checked if you are experiencing symptoms of low testosterone, such as fatigue, decreased libido, or muscle weakness. Additionally, monitoring testosterone levels may be necessary for individuals undergoing testosterone replacement therapy. It’s important to note that the interpretation of testosterone level results should be done by a healthcare professional. They can help determine the underlying cause of abnormal testosterone levels and provide guidance on potential treatment options. Getting tested for testosterone levels can help you understand the hormone levels in your body and identify any potential issues that may be affecting your overall health and well-being. It is important to consult with a healthcare professional who can interpret the test results and provide appropriate guidance and treatment options. Abnormal testosterone levels can affect overall health, mood, and physical capabilities when left unaddressed. If you are experiencing any symptoms as described above, you should definitely get your hormone levels checked. Most men focus on total testosterone levels when they’re trying to figure out if they have low T, but free testosterone levels matter, too. “Many studies [that look at testosterone levels] take an amount of people across these ages and test them for their T levels,” says McDevitt. The researchers don’t factor in pre-existing conditions or peoples’ lifestyles, which can skew the results, she notes. Identifying symptoms of low testosterone in men over 40 through a serum testosterone test can help differentiate between normal aging and a medical condition that requires intervention. Research shows that men who exercise regularly have higher T than those who don’t (10). In particular, resistance training, high-intensity interval training (HIIT), and walking have been shown to positively affect testosterone levels. Just like it can be too low, your testosterone can also be too high, and that’s equally problematic (8). When your testosterone levels are getting into the 1,000 up to the 1,500 ng/dL range—and staying up there—that’s too high, says McDevitt. I gave you the hormones to become an adult and to reproduce’ and