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Testosterone is often synonymous with the “manly man’s” hormone. This means that high levels of testosterone are often associated with chiseled muscles, thick patches of body and facial hair, and a deep, resonant voice, among other inherently male traits.
And, for the most part, this assumption holds some degree of truth to it. Testosterone is responsible for regulating these sexual characteristics. Some forms of media would even go as far as to look up to people with such traits.
That said, having testosterone levels far beyond the normal threshold isn’t as glorious as it’s made out to be. In fact, having high testosterone can actually lead to troubling consequences and a slew of health symptoms.
Developing high testosterone in men is less prevalent than developing low testosterone. However, for men taking anabolic steroids from testosterone replacement therapy, and for men who have a history of testicular tumors, this problem can present itself in more ways than one.
Without further ado, let’s explore some signs of high testosterone, what it means to a man’s overall health, and ways patients can restore testosterone levels back to its baseline level.
What is the Function of Testosterone in the Body?
Testosterone governs a myriad of biological processes, and its impact reaches far beyond the sexual characteristics it’s famous for.
To cut it short, testosterone is the backbone of male health, shaping both the physical and emotional facets of masculinity.
Here are some functions that testosterone plays a role in:
- Muscle growth and strength
- Fat distribution
- Bone density
- Sperm production
- Libido (sexual drive)
- Facial and body hair growth
- Voice deepening
- Mood regulation
While optimal levels of this hormone ensure balanced growth and emotional stability, abnormal testosterone levels can disrupt this equilibrium.
This is why it’s critical to get proper screening through a blood test to ensure that you’re not unknowingly harboring a massive health risk.
What Causes High Testosterone in Men?
High testosterone can be attributed to a variety of causes.
Here are some of the most common causes of this phenomenon:
- Genetics: As much as 70% of men’s serum testosterone levels are attributed to genetics. If you have a family history of high testosterone, chances are, you may contract it too.
- Presence of tumors: Benign and cancerous tumors—particularly from the adrenal and testicular glands—can cause a testosterone imbalance and spike up testosterone levels.
- Steroid abuse: Men who use more than the prescribed amount of steroids are at risk of developing high testosterone—and suffering a slew of symptoms as a consequence.
- Thyroid disorder: Men with hyperthyroidism have elevated SHBG and testosterone levels, far beyond the normal threshold.
Regardless of the source, having elevated high testosterone can be harmful. It’s important to seek medical guidance to prevent harmful developments from occurring.
The Quintessential Signs of High Testosterone
Determining whether or not you have high testosterone can be difficult at first since its symptoms may overlap with other common health conditions.
Thus, the best way to know whether you have low or high T levels is by checking in with a local medical professional specializing in men’s health.
Regardless, here are some signs that you may be facing high testosterone:
- Excessive body and facial hair growth
- Oily skin and acne
- Enlarged Adam’s apple
- A deeper voice than usual
- Increased muscle mass
- Aggressive behavior
- Rapid mood swings
- Reduced testicle size
- Sleep disturbances or insomnia
- Increased libido
- Difficulty in concentration or focus
- Balding or hair thinning on the scalp
- Fatigue or constant tiredness
If you have any of these symptoms, contact a doctor so that they can prescribe you the proper testosterone therapy for your case.
Potential Risks of Elevated Testosterone Levels: What High Testosterone Does in Men
The signs of high testosterone listed above might not seem immediately alarming, but don’t be misled: having elevated testosterone can lead to potentially life-threatening conditions.
In summary, these risks include:
- Increased cardiovascular risk
- Increased risk of blood clot-related diseases
- Increased risk of liver damage
- Aggressive behavior
First, elevated levels can increase the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases, including hypertension and heart attacks. This is because testosterone enlarges muscles, and the heart is a muscle. This can block the flow of blood.
Men with high testosterone are also at an increased risk of developing pulmonary embolism and deep vein thrombosis due to blood clots.
Secondly, anabolic abuse can cause long-term liver damage in men, rendering it more inefficient as time passes on.
Lastly, high testosterone can also have negative implications on mood. This is because men with high testosterone tend to be more aggressive than men with normal levels of it. This, in turn, can cause damage in relationships where community and collaboration are valued.
Addressing High Testosterone: How to Achieve Normal Testosterone Levels
If you suspect you have high testosterone, it’s essential to find a healthcare professional to talk to immediately.
They are equipped with the right tools and knowledge to provide a proper diagnosis of your sex hormone dysfunction.
Besides anti-androgen therapy or surgery—which are two of the most proven ways to restore high testosterone levels—there are natural ways you can boost testosterone levels too.
These include:
- Eating nuts, soy, and testosterone-reducing foods
- Treating tumors and potential causes of high testosterone
- Adjusting TRT and reducing its frequency
- Stopping the abuse of steroids
By doing the above activities, alongside taking adequate treatment, you can live a healthy life and achieve healthy sexual function.
Restore Stable Testosterone Production with the Best Male Health Doctors in Atlanta
As detailed above, too much testosterone is not as good as it’s played out to be in the media. It can cause a variety of physical, mental, and sexual symptoms that can debilitate your life severely.
That said, if you’re suffering from this condition and need a lead to cure it, look no further.
Atlanta’s top men’s health specialists at Priority Men’s Medical Center offer treatment for abnormal testosterone levels, among a slew of other male health issues. This includes ED treatment, PE treatment, RestoreWave therapy, and customized healthy living programs.
Interested to take the chance to improve your vitality? Contact us today to learn more about your testosterone levels, your initial consultation and first treatment are completely free.
