Normal testosterone levels in males vary, with a range of 250-1000 ng/dL, and levels naturally decrease with age. Testosterone is responsible for male sexual organ development and masculine characteristics, and is used by the body for muscle growth and sexual function. Too low testosterone can result in hypogonadism, causing depression, erectile dysfunction, and infertility. Testosterone replacement therapy is the main treatment option.
Normal testosterone levels in males vary depending on the person’s natural hormone levels. Most doctors agree that the range for a normal level is between 250 and 1,000 nanograms (ng) per deciliter (dL) of blood. For young males under the age of 30, the normal range is above 600 ng/dL. Normal testosterone levels in males naturally decrease as men age. Men in their 50s usually get tested in the mid-50 ng/dL. Each man’s production of the hormone is different, so the ranges vary according to the individual.
Testosterone is an androgen-type steroid hormone produced by males in the testicles and by females in the ovaries, and is created from cholesterol. The pituitary gland is responsible for signaling the testicles to start or stop producing testosterone. The natural levels of testosterone in males are higher than in females and the hormone is responsible for the development of the sexual organs in men. The hormone is also involved in the development of masculine characteristics, such as hair growth, Adam’s apple and low body fat. Testosterone is used by the body for the growth of organs and muscles, stimulates sexual function and the production of sperm.
Testosterone levels are highest in the early morning or after physical activity. Some people think that the higher the testosterone levels, the better the man will feel and look. Many bodybuilders and men who want to increase testosterone levels take testosterone-containing supplements because the hormone is naturally used by the body when building muscle mass. This can be dangerous unless directed by a doctor and some forms are considered anabolic steroids and have negative side effects. Studies have shown that high testosterone levels can make a man angry, reduce the size of his testicles, and increase the amount of acne on his skin.
Too low testosterone on a consistent basis can be the result of a condition known as hypogonadism, in which the gonads produce hormones in such low quantities that they affect other bodily functions. Many men suffer from depression, erectile dysfunction, low bone mass, infertility and hot flashes. This condition can also occur during fetal development and in young boys, which can lead to other physiological problems from the lack of development of primarily male characteristics and fully developed sex organs. A simple blood test can confirm if a person’s testosterone levels are low, then a doctor may order further tests to confirm the diagnosis. Testosterone replacement therapy is the main type of treatment option for hypogonadism, which will help restore normal testosterone levels in males.
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