Our bodies are amazing machines, and all men should learn about their testosterone levels as they continue to age.
We have all kinds of hormones that enable us to function and survive at our highest capacity. Testosterone is one of those hormones, and men and women alike need it to survive. At what age do we need different amounts of Testosterone?
There are many aspects of this hormone, such as the roles it plays in our survival, and a breakdown of Testosterone levels by age. We are talking all about it here, so stay tuned.
Testosterone Explained
Everyone needs Testosterone. This hormone is often termed the “King of Male Hormones,” and for good reason. It is responsible for a slew of processes in the male body. When men do not have enough of this hormone, issues and problems can arise. Such is true with the opposite. When high levels of Testosterone are detected, problems and issues can also arise.
How Does Testosterone Work?
Testosterone belongs to the group of hormones in the body that are termed “Androgens.” This means that hormones that belong in this category are responsible for building and growth. In males, Testosterone is responsible for the deepening of the voice, hair growth, development of penis and testes, muscle and bone growth, increase in sexual libido, regulation of sperm production, and increased energy.
Where Is It Made?
Like other hormones, Testosterone is regulated by a system in the body called a feedback loop. Generally, this means that the body can sense when there is “too much” Testosterone and will stop production of the hormone. This ties into those individuals who may seek out Testosterone Therapy or medications when the treatment is not needed. They can end up with too much Testosterone in the body, which in turn signals their own processing systems to stop making it themselves. This can lead to negative outcomes when the treatment is stopped and the body no longer makes Testosterone itself, since it detected the surplus already in the blood.
Leydig cells in the testes produce Testosterone as follows:
- The Hypothalamus secretes GnRH (Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone) in spurts, which controls Testosterone secretion.
- These spurts trigger the Pituitary Gland to make LH (Luteinizing Hormone).
- LH causes cholesterol to be converted to Testosterone in the Leydig cells.
When Do Testosterone Levels Start to Change?
When males are adolescents start puberty, Testosterone levels grow substantially. By the time they are 50 or older, their levels of Testosterone have declined. The levels of Testosterone are then decreased by 20-50% up until age 80. The American Urology Association (AUA) has stated that a Testosterone level of at least 300 Nanograms is considered normal in men. If the levels of this hormone are less than 300, it is considered to be a condition known as Low Testosterone, or Low T.
Age and Testosterone Levels
Testosterone levels in the body can change with age as soon as puberty starts. Throughout a male’s lifetime, there are ages where this hormone can fluctuate, as shown below.
Age 0-12: Normal T Levels. Testosterone is needed for normal fetal development and crucial to growth and development in early years.
Age 12-18: T Levels have a large increase in number and will become the highest count they will ever be in the male’s lifetime. (300-1200 Nanograms per deciliter)
Age 18-30: T Levels remain at an increased volume
Age 30-50 T Levels start to decline 1% per year at age 30
Age 50+ T Levels continue to gradually decline as age progresses.
What Can I Do If I Think I Have Low T?
If you suspect you may have low Testosterone, you can start by taking our free questionnaire. A sample of questions you will see on the test are as follows: Answer in a yes or no format.
- I have a reduced desire for sex that is not ok with me.
- I have Erectile Dysfunction.
- I have a lack of drive and motivation that affects my productivity.
- I lack energy and am always tired.
- Life is less enjoyable than it used to be.
- Fun activities are less fun, or take too much effort.
- I often feel irritable and grumpy.
- I have noticed a loss of tone in my muscles.
- Weight seems to settle stubbornly in certain areas of my body, and remains there despite weight loss.
- My workout results do not match my efforts.
To complete the full test and submit your answers online, click here. Once submitted, a staff member will be in contact to discuss your results.
Treatment Options for Low T
There are a few treatment options for individuals who need extra therapy to help boost their levels of Testosterone. TRT or Testosterone Replacement Therapy is one option, and there are a few ways to do it. Injections are a process usually marked by a few appointments in office to teach patients how to use the medication. You can choose to receive all injections in the office, or choose to start your therapy in the office, and then finish the remaining shots or treatments in the comfort of your own home. If this option does not sound appealing, you can also choose to use a topical cream or gel. This is a quick-drying prescription gel that you apply to your skin daily. Testosterone is absorbed through the bloodstream once applied. You may also choose to go other routes for treatment, which are patches, pellets, or other oral medications.
Visit Genesys Men’s Health for Your Testosterone Needs
At Genesys Men’s Health, we value your unique experience and treat you with respect and care. We have a team of doctors who are ready to assist you in whatever condition you may be experiencing. If you are questioning your Testosterone levels, let us help you get to the root of the answers you seek. We specialize in Testosterone Therapy and are skilled in our treatment options we provide. Our office is located in Sandy, Utah. Come by and chat with our friendly staff, or give us a call at (801)-671-7456. Contact us today!