Normal and Average Testosterone Levels for Men

Testosterone is an important factor in men’s health. However, not all are able to make enough of this hormone on their own. Also, over time they begin to lose the hormone naturally as they age. That’s why testosterone replacement therapy can help males with below average levels get back to a normal range.

What is Testosterone?

It is a hormone that serves several key roles in men. First, it helps them to build and maintain muscle mass. Second, it provides the sex drive necessary to have sex. Third, it is important in creating sperm, which is of course needed for reproduction. On average they begin to start losing testosterone after age 30. This can lead to a decreased interest in sex, loss of muscle mass, and weight gain, among other problems. Even depression in males has been linked to hypogonadism, or low-T.

What is an Appropriate Testosterone Range in Men?

Recent research has sought to redefine what is considered an appropriate range for adult males. According to Endocrine.org a study published in The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism examined 9,000 male participants to determine a frame of reference for appropriate hormone ranges. The study concluded that for those from Europe and the United States the range for normal hormone levels was between 264-916 ng/dl. However, those with levels below 264 could benefit from replacement therapy.

What is Testosterone Replacement Therapy?

If the body cannot make enough hormone on its own then it is possible to artificially replace it using medication. There are several ways that the medication can be administered. For example:
Topical gel
A patch that is applied to the skin
Testosterone injections
A patch that can be worn inside the mouth
Using an implant

The benefit of this treatment is that hormone levels return to normal. This can mean an increased quality of life for many who are experiencing low-T levels.

Risks Associated with Testosterone Therapy Treatment

As with many medical treatments there can be side-effects and risks. The main concern is that for those who wish to reproduce is that the treatment can reduce their production of natural hormones. These are necessary if one wishes to father a child. Other potential issues include:

Sleep apnea
Breast enlargement
Skin problems and acne
Deep vein thrombosis, or blood clots

It’s important to know that although low-t treatment can greatly help, it could also cause side-effects too.

What’s the Next Step?

Those who have low-T levels have genuine concerns about their health. However, by taking advantage of testosterone replacement therapy and testosterone treatments they can avoid these problems have a greater quality of life. However, these issues need to be discussed with a physician or testosterone therapy provider who understands the problems of low-T and can provide possible solutions.