Excess testosterone levels can trigger various symptoms, including increased body hair growth, mood swings, and acne. These elevated levels may stem from certain medical conditions or the use of medications like anabolic steroids.
In males, high testosterone levels can lead to serious issues such as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), characterized by an enlarged prostate gland.
Testosterone plays crucial roles in males, regulating libido, bone and muscle mass, and sperm production. Females also possess testosterone, albeit in lower amounts, contributing to the growth and maintenance of reproductive tissue and bone mass.
While testosterone is vital for men’s health, excessive levels can pose health risks, such as prostate gland enlargement.
In this article, we explore the signs of high testosterone, referred to as hyperandrogenism, specifically in males.
Testosterone Levels in Men
When a man’s testosterone levels are too high, a condition known as hyperandrogenism, there may be few noticeable signs in adults. However, there can be a risk of complications such as liver tumors, jaundice, and an enlarged prostate gland.
Conversely, when a man’s testosterone levels are too low, a condition known as hypogonadism, he may experience various symptoms including:
- Enlarged breasts, known as gynecomastia
- Small testes
- Low sperm count
- Difficulty gaining muscle mass
- Low libido
- Low energy
- Anemia
- Osteoporosis
- Hot flashes (in severe cases)
As men age, testosterone levels tend to naturally decline, which may lead to these symptoms.
Regular exercise can help build muscle mass by stimulating muscle growth and increasing muscle strength. Resistance training, such as weightlifting, is particularly effective in promoting muscle growth and can be beneficial for individuals looking to increase muscle mass.
A normal testosterone level in an adult male is typically considered to be in the range of 450—600 nanograms per deciliter (ng/dL) according to the American Urological Association. If testosterone levels fall below 300 ng/dL, a doctor may diagnose a deficiency and recommend testosterone replacement therapy.
It’s important to note that testosterone levels can vary by age group and may fluctuate throughout the day, with the highest levels typically observed in the early morning.
Signs and Symptoms of High Testosterone
Testosterone, a hormone, is naturally produced in the testes for individuals assigned male at birth and in the ovaries for individuals assigned female at birth. Additionally, the adrenal glands produce dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), a precursor to testosterone.
Synthetic testosterone can also be taken as medication, and the effects of high testosterone levels are typically observed with synthetic sources.
According to a 2017 study involving over 9,000 men in Europe and the United States, the total testosterone range for males aged 19–39 years is 264–916 nanograms per deciliter (ng/dl), with levels above this considered high. The American Urological Association considers 450–600 ng/dl to be within the normal range.
High levels of synthetic testosterone may lead to complications such as hepatic adenoma (liver tumor), cholestatic jaundice, and benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).
A 2021 study noted that males with high levels of dihydrotestosterone (DHT), which works alongside testosterone, may have a higher chance of experiencing acne and hair loss, although this effect was not directly linked to high testosterone levels.
While testosterone itself does not cause prostate cancer, it can contribute to its progression. Reducing testosterone levels may help lower the risk of prostate cancer recurrence or progression, although there may be a connection between testosterone replacement therapy and the development of prostate cancer.
Men with very high testosterone levels may experience various symptoms, including acne, high libido, aggressive or risk-taking behaviors, headaches, increased appetite, heart or liver problems, high blood pressure (hypertension), excessive body hair, infertility, insomnia, low sperm count, mood swings, prostate enlargement leading to difficulty urinating, swelling of the legs and feet, and unexplained weight gain.
What Causes High Testorestone Levels?
High testosterone levels can indicate an underlying health condition that leads to elevated levels of circulating testosterone in the body. Factors that can contribute to increased testosterone levels include:
- Benign or cancerous tumors in the adrenal glands.
- Acromegaly or Cushing syndrome, which affect the pituitary gland.
- Consumption of anabolic steroids.
- Congenital adrenal hyperplasia.
- The use of certain medications, such as fluoxymesterone (Halotestin).
- Testosterone supplementation.
Athletes and bodybuilders may resort to anabolic steroids to enhance athletic performance and increase muscle mass. Conversely, testosterone replacement therapy is utilized to address low testosterone levels.
How Is High Testosterone Diagnosed?
To diagnose high testosterone in males, doctors usually employ the following procedures:
- Physical examination – Doctors conduct a physical examination to look for signs and symptoms indicative of high testosterone levels, such as acne and increased muscle mass. They may inquire about the person’s libido and mood as well.
- Blood tests – Blood tests are ordered by doctors to measure the individual’s testosterone hormone levels. Additionally, they may assess glucose and cholesterol levels, as testosterone levels can influence them.
As testosterone secretion typically peaks in the early morning hours, doctors often schedule blood tests for this time to obtain accurate results.
Treatment Options for High Testosterone
The treatment for high testosterone levels depends on the underlying cause of the imbalance:
Discontinuation of steroid or medication use
If high testosterone levels are due to the use of anabolic steroids or testosterone supplementation, stopping these substances typically resolves the issue. Research shows that most individuals who stop using testosterone supplements regain sperm production within six months.
Tumor treatment
In rare instances, tumors can produce sex hormones, leading to increased testosterone levels. Surgical removal of the tumor may be necessary. If the tumor is cancerous, additional treatments such as surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation therapy may be required.
Medication
Medications can be used to lower high testosterone levels in individuals with underlying conditions. These may include:
- Steroid synthesis inhibitors like ketoconazole (Nizoral) for treating Cushing disease.
- Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) analogs like degarelix (Firmagon) to reduce testosterone levels in individuals undergoing prostate cancer treatment.
- Alpha reductase inhibitors such as finasteride (Proscar) for managing benign prostatic hyperplasia.
Anyone experiencing symptoms while using testosterone replacement therapy should consult a doctor. Regular appointments are typically scheduled for individuals undergoing testosterone replacement therapy to monitor their progress and adjust treatment as necessary.
Conclusions
High testosterone levels in males can lead to various symptoms, such as increased facial and body hair, aggression, and infertility. This condition is often linked to anabolic steroid use or testosterone supplementation.
Individuals experiencing symptoms of high testosterone should seek medical evaluation and treatment. Untreated high testosterone levels may elevate the risk of infertility, cancer, and other health issues.