Testosterone is often associated with sex drive and sexual performance, but this important hormone affects much more than just libido. Testosterone plays a vital role in many aspects of male health, from building muscle mass to supporting emotional well-being. For those experiencing symptoms, a testosterone test can help identify if low testosterone could be the cause.
What does testosterone do?
Testosterone is an androgen hormone, or a reproductive growth hormone, produced mainly in the testicles. Testosterone plays a pivotal role in men's overall health, and contributes to a wide array of essential bodily functions, including the maintenance of muscle mass and bone density, the regulation of red blood cell production, and the promotion of a healthy sex drive. Beyond these physical attributes, testosterone also effects mood, cognitive abilities and energy levels.
Stop guessing. Purchase a Testosterone Test today.
Signs your testosterone may be low
If you’ve noticed any of the following physical or emotional changes, low testosterone could be the cause:
- Decreased muscle mass and strength
- Increased body fat and reduced bone density
- Loss of body and facial hair
- Development of breast tissue (gynecomastia)
- Low sex drive, erectile dysfunction, infertility
- Fatigue, depressed mood
Causes of low testosterone
A variety of factors can contribute to low testosterone levels, including:
- Age: Testosterone naturally decreases with age typically declining about 1% per year after age 30
- Obesity: Carrying excess weight, especially abdominal fat, is associated with lower testosterone. Losing weight may help boost levels
- Medications: Opioids, steroids and certain blood pressure medications may affect testosterone production
- Chronic illness: Certain diseases like Type 2 diabetes, HIV/AIDS, kidney failure and autoimmune disorders can impact hormone levels, especially if you have more than one chronic condition
- Injury or infection - Testicular trauma, cancer or inflammation can reduce testosterone
- Stress and poor sleep: High stress levels and sleep deprivation are both known to disrupt testosterone production
- Nutrient deficiencies: Low vitamin D, zinc and magnesium levels can affect hormone levels including testosterone
Normal testosterone levels? What you can learn from testing
If you’re experiencing any symptoms of low testosterone, getting a simple test like Labcorp OnDemand’s Testosterone Test can help you determine if your levels are lower than normal. Knowing your testosterone levels empowers you to make informed decisions about your health.
You can purchase a testosterone test online through Labcorp without needing to go into a doctor’s office. Talk to your healthcare provider about your test results; if your testosterone is low, they can work with you to identify potential underlying causes and discuss treatment options like lifestyle changes, medications or testosterone replacement therapy.
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Take charge of your health
There are steps you can take to optimize your testosterone levels and improve your overall health and well-being. Start by testing your testosterone and purchase your testosterone test today.
Note: The Labcorp OnDemand Testosterone Test is only clinically appropriate for those assigned male at birth.
