High Testosterone Symptoms in Men - Signs of Excess Testosterone Levels

What is Testosterone?

Testosterone is a hormone that plays a key role in the development of male growth and reproductive tissues. It is part of a class of male hormones called androgens.

In men, testosterone is produced primarily in the testicles. The pituitary gland in the brain regulates testosterone production by signaling the testicles to manufacture more. Women also produce small amounts of testosterone in the ovaries and adrenal glands.

Testosterone levels peak during adolescence and early adulthood. After age 30, they begin to decline naturally by about 1% per year. Factors like chronic disease, medications, lifestyle habits, and genetics influence testosterone concentrations.

Role and Functions of Testosterone

Testosterone performs a variety of important functions in the male body:

• Development of male reproductive tissues like the testes and prostate
• Growth of body hair and facial hair
• Deepening of the voice during puberty
• Building muscle mass and strength
• Production of red blood cells
• Bone mineral density
• Sex drive and sexual function
• Sperm production
• Fat distribution
• Mood and cognitive function

Maintaining adequate testosterone levels is essential for men's health and wellbeing. Declining testosterone can lead to unpleasant symptoms.

High Testosterone Symptoms in Men

While low testosterone is more commonly discussed, there are potential side effects associated with elevated testosterone as well. Here are some key signs of high testosterone in men:

Changes in Appearance

Physical changes that can occur with high testosterone include:

• Increased muscle mass and reduced body fat
• Facial hair growth and body hair
• Male pattern baldness
• Acne outbreaks
• Enlargement of the Adam's apple

Reproductive Changes

High testosterone can lead to the following reproductive changes:

• Elevated libido and frequent erections
• Enlarged prostate gland
• Testicular shrinkage
• Low sperm count
• Breast enlargement (gynecomastia)

Mood and Behavioral Shifts

Psychological and emotional symptoms may include:

• Increased aggression and irritability
• Impulsive decision making
• Mania or hypomania
• Trouble sleeping and restlessness
• Lack of focus and impaired cognition

Other Symptoms

Some other high testosterone symptoms include:

• Rapid heart rate
• Headaches
• Oily skin and acne
• Frequent urination
• Flushing and hot flashes

If you are experiencing these testosterone-related symptoms, see your doctor to get your hormone levels tested. This will determine if high testosterone is to blame.

Causes of High Testosterone in Men

There are several potential causes of elevated testosterone in men:

Testosterone Replacement Therapy

Testosterone replacement therapy involves taking prescription testosterone medications. It is used to treat clinically low testosterone. However, improper dosing can lead to supratherapeutic levels.

Androgen Abuse

Non-medical use of androgenic steroids and testosterone boosters can increase testosterone above normal. This is seen frequently in bodybuilders and athletes.

Adrenal Gland Disorders

Conditions like congenital adrenal hyperplasia that affect the adrenal glands can trigger overproduction of androgens like testosterone.

Testicular Tumors

Testicular tumors like Leydig cell tumors can result in testosterone excess. But these are rare causes.

Hyperthyroidism

An overactive thyroid gland increases metabolism and testosterone production. Around 6% of hyperthyroid patients have elevated testosterone.

Stress

Studies show short-term stress raises testosterone in men. However, chronic stress often leads to low testosterone instead.

High-Intensity Exercise

Intense strength training and heavy weight lifting stimulate temporary spikes in anabolic hormones like testosterone.

See your physician if you suspect any underlying conditions may be leading to your high testosterone levels.

Health Risks of High Testosterone

While some men desire higher testosterone for potential strength and muscle gains, elevated levels carry some health risks:

• Cardiovascular disease
• Polycythemia (increased red blood cell count)
• Prostate enlargement
• Male breast enlargement
• Testicular atrophy
• Acne and oily skin
• Hair loss
• Liver damage
• Aggression and mood disorders

Research also links imbalanced testosterone levels to higher mortality risk. Having your testosterone checked regularly can help identify any unhealthy deviations.

Normal Testosterone Levels in Men

Normal total testosterone levels in men are generally 300-1,000 ng/dL, according to lab reference ranges. However, optimal testosterone for health and vitality is a bit higher in most men.

The table below provides a reference for healthy testosterone levels across different age groups:

Age Group	Normal Total Testosterone Level
19-39 years	400-1200 ng/dL
40-59 years	350-890 ng/dL
Over 60 years	300-720 ng/dL

Testosterone levels above or below the normal range could indicate a potential issue. Testing blood levels is the only way to diagnose high or low testosterone.

Diagnosing High Testosterone

If you suspect excess testosterone based on symptoms, your doctor will check your blood levels. A diagnosis of high testosterone is made if levels are above the normal range.

Your physician may order the following tests:

• Total testosterone - Measures both free and bound testosterone
• Free testosterone - Quantifies unbound testosterone only
• Bioavailable testosterone - Calculated from total and free testosterone
• SHBG - Sex hormone binding globulin level affects free testosterone

Blood is typically drawn in the early morning when testosterone levels are highest. Your doctor will also perform medical exams and ask about symptoms to make an accurate diagnosis.

Treatment for High Testosterone in Men

Treatment approaches will depend on the underlying cause of your elevated testosterone. Potential treatment options include:

• Medication adjustment - Altering testosterone or steroid dosages
• Surgery - To remove testicular or adrenal tumors
• Thyroid medication - Beta-blockers, antithyroid agents
• Prostate medication - 5-alpha reductase inhibitors
• Lifestyle changes - Diet, exercise, stress reduction
• Therapy - For supporting behavioral or emotional issues

Closely monitoring your testosterone levels and staying alert for symptoms allows for early treatment if levels become too high in the future.

Preventing High Testosterone

You can help prevent excessively high testosterone levels by:

• Avoiding testosterone supplements or steroids without medical need
• Getting bloodwork done regularly
• Managing stress
• Exercising moderately vs. overly intense training
• Eating a balanced, nutritious diet
• Maintaining a healthy body weight
• Limiting alcohol intake
• Prioritizing sleep and rest

Talk to your doctor about monitoring your testosterone levels to catch any abnormalities early. Seek prompt medical attention for potential testosterone-related symptoms.

Take Home Message

High testosterone can result in physical, behavioral, and sexual symptoms. Causes include testosterone therapy, adrenal disorders, tumors, hyperthyroidism, stress, and intense training.

Elevated testosterone may increase the risks of cardiovascular disease, prostate issues, liver damage, male breast growth, hair loss, and aggression. Normal levels are age-dependent but ideally around 400-1200 ng/dL for health.

Getting bloodwork done, making lifestyle changes, and promptly treating underlying conditions can help prevent excessively high testosterone.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.