Testosterone, a major sex hormone produced by the adrenal glands and gonads, plays a critical role in developing and maintaining male characteristics like facial and body hair, muscle mass, and normal brain function.
When testosterone levels rise above the normal range, it can lead to a variety of physical and emotional symptoms, affecting everything from reproductive health to cognitive function and increasing the risk of severe conditions like cardiovascular disease and prostate cancer.
What is testosterone?
Testosterone is a key sex hormone produced in both males and females. Usually, the gonads (testes in men and ovaries in women) produce testosterone, but the adrenal glands in both sexes also produce it and dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) (The Cleveland Clinic).
The brain sends signals to these glands to produce testosterone and DHEA, which the body uses to form additional testosterone and estrogen. Testosterone is essential for sperm production and helps maintain proper hormone balance throughout the body.
When your body produces testosterone appropriately, it supports normal masculinization and contributes to red blood cell production. It also impacts your overall sexual function and body fat distribution while maintaining normal libido and sex drive.
Normal testosterone levels
Testosterone levels vary by age and sex, with peak testosterone production in our late teens during puberty. In males, normal levels range from 300-1,000 ng/dL for adults and 200-700 ng/dL for adolescents (The Cleveland Clinic).
In females, normal testosterone levels are much lower, typically ranging from 15-70 ng/dL in adults and 20-100 ng/dL in adolescents. These measurements typically assess free testosterone levels, which represent the biologically active hormone not bound to sex hormone-binding globulin.
As we age, testosterone levels naturally decline, which can sometimes lead to testosterone deficiency. Likewise, certain medical conditions can cause elevated testosterone levels. Regular blood tests can help determine if levels fall within the normal range or if a hormonal imbalance requires attention.’
Causes and risk factors of high testosterone levels
While a lot of conversation centers around men with low testosterone levels (Low T), high testosterone levels affect both men and women and can lead to a drastic drop in your overall quality of life. There are several conditions that cause high testosterone levels, which present physical challenges for both sexes.
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
PCOS is a hormonal disorder that leads to an excess of androgen hormones, including testosterone. While traditionally found in women, PCOS symptoms may impact males as well, and symptoms could include excess body hair, hair recession, pronounced hypertrichosis, insulin resistance, and biochemical and hormonal abnormalities (National Library of Medicine).
Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia (CAH)
CAH is a disorder affecting the adrenal glands, leading to the overproduction of testosterone. This condition disrupts the proper balance of hormones and can cause excess body hair, oily skin, and other hormone-related issues, including extreme acne, fertility issues, and irregular body development and growth (Mayo Clinic).
Other risk factors
While CAH and PCOS are more serious medical conditions, they are less common than other risk factors, such as:
- Adrenal gland disorders that affect how the body produces testosterone
- Anabolic steroids used for muscle building or performance enhancement
- Pituitary gland disorders that interfere with brain control of hormone production
- Certain medications that may cause testosterone levels to rise
General testosterone imbalances or incorrectly administered testosterone replacement therapy (TRT), can also lead to abnormally high testosterone levels and associated complications.
Effects of high testosterone levels
Abnormally high testosterone levels can impact both physical appearance and cognitive function in different ways. Experiencing any of these effects can signal high testosterone, and if you fall into that category, you should set an appointment with a medical provider for further testing.
Physical effects
Too much testosterone creates obvious evidence in the body’s physical characteristics. You could experience any or all of these symptoms if you have high testosterone:
- Excess facial and body hair
- Oily skin and acne
- Increased muscle mass
- Male pattern baldness
- Deepened voice (in females)
- Weight gain or redistribution of body fat
- Low sperm counts
- Prostate enlargement (in males)
Emotional and behavioral effects
In addition to the physical symptoms, high testosterone can cause a range of emotional and behavioral issues. The brain’s normal function changes when testosterone excess occurs, and may include symptoms like:
- Uncharacteristically aggressive behavior
- Mood swings and irritability
- Increased sex drive and potential sexual promiscuity
- Poor decision-making
- Insomnia and headaches
- Risk-taking behaviors
- Disruption of normal mood
Diagnosis and testing
Blood tests measure free testosterone levels and sex hormone-binding globulin to diagnose hormonal imbalances like high testosterone. Doctors assess levels of testosterone alongside other hormones to identify underlying causes, such as pituitary gland disorders, adrenal gland dysfunction, or PCOS.
Management and treatment
Managing abnormally high testosterone levels requires a comprehensive approach addressing both lifestyle factors and medical interventions. A proper balance of hormones is essential for normal brain function and overall health.
Lifestyle changes
Making specific daily adjustments can help regulate testosterone levels naturally:
- Healthy weight management to reduce body fat
- Regular exercise without excessive strength training
- A balanced diet low in substances that boost testosterone
- Stress reduction techniques to normalize hormones
- Adequate sleep to support proper hormonal cycles
Consistency with these changes can help restore everyday mood and reduce physical symptoms of testosterone excess.
Medications
Medical interventions may be necessary when lifestyle changes aren’t sufficient:
- Hormonal birth control to regulate androgen hormones in females with irregular periods
- Anti-androgen medications to block testosterone’s effects in both males and females
- Adjustments to existing testosterone therapy for those experiencing side effects
- Medications targeting specific conditions like congenital adrenal hyperplasia
- Treatments addressing pituitary gland disorders that control hormone production
The right testosterone treatment plan should be customized based on blood test results and monitored regularly for effectiveness.
Complications and related conditions
High testosterone levels can lead to numerous health complications beyond the immediate symptoms, affecting multiple body systems and long-term well-being. These potential complications will help guide proper diagnosis and management.
Prostate cancer
Cancer research suggests that high testosterone levels have a link to an increased risk of prostate cancer and prostate gland abnormalities. In fact, men with the highest free testosterone levels are 18% more likely to develop prostate cancer (National Cancer Research Institute). Regular check-ups and screenings help detect early warning signs and ensure the prostate remains healthy despite hormonal fluctuations.
Cardiovascular issues
Abnormally high testosterone levels also contribute to high blood pressure and increase the risk of heart attack. Too much testosterone may lead to blood clots and cardiovascular complications, especially in those using anabolic steroids or improper testosterone replacement therapy. Elevated testosterone as a result of short-term testosterone therapy may increase CVD in adults over 65 years old (National Library of Medicine).
Reproductive complications
Testosterone excess disrupts normal reproductive health and leads to low sperm counts and fertility challenges. When testosterone levels rise too high, they can interfere with the proper balance of sex hormones, potentially causing testicular shrinkage and disrupting sexual function.
Developmental concerns
In adolescents, abnormally high testosterone leads to stunted growth due to premature bone maturation. Doctors should evaluate young people experiencing uncharacteristically aggressive behavior, early pubic hair development, or other signs of precocious puberty for potential hormone imbalances (Mayo Clinic).
Metabolic effects
High testosterone can impact body fat distribution and potentially lead to metabolic disorders. The relationship between testosterone and weight gain is complex, as the hormone affects how the body processes nutrients and maintains energy balance (National Library of Medicine).
Cognitive and emotional disturbances
Excess testosterone can negatively affect cognitive function, causing mood swings and potentially leading to poor decision-making. Some individuals may experience changes in sex drive, insomnia, headaches, and behavior patterns that differ from their normal mood and temperament (National Library of Medicine).
Conclusion and next steps
High testosterone levels can impact both physical and mental well-being, leading to various symptoms and health risks. Identifying underlying causes and seeking proper treatment can help manage these effects effectively.
If you’re concerned about your testosterone levels, professional hormone testing is the first step toward understanding your health. Huddle Men’s Health offers comprehensive testosterone testing and expert consultations to help you determine whether your hormone levels are in balance.
Take control of your health—Schedule a free testosterone consultation today!
FAQs
What are the signs of high testosterone in men?
Men with abnormally high testosterone levels may experience increased muscle mass, excess body hair, oily skin, and acne. Some may also notice mood swings, uncharacteristically aggressive behavior, or heightened sex drive. In severe cases, high testosterone can contribute to low sperm counts, prostate enlargement, and an increased risk of heart attack or blood clots.
Can too much testosterone be harmful?
Yes, too much testosterone can lead to adverse health effects, including high blood pressure, blood clots, and an increased risk of prostate cancer. It can also impact cognitive function, causing irritability, mood swings, and poor decision-making. In adolescents, excess testosterone may lead to stunted growth due to premature bone maturation.
What causes high testosterone levels?
High testosterone can be a result of adrenal gland disorders, pituitary gland dysfunction, or the use of anabolic steroids. Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) can also lead to testosterone excess in women. In some cases, testosterone levels rise naturally due to genetic factors, while others may experience abnormal hormone production due to underlying health conditions.
How does high testosterone affect reproductive health?
While testosterone plays a critical role in sperm production and sexual function, excessively high levels can disrupt proper balance and lead to low sperm counts and infertility. In men, testosterone excess can also cause testicular shrinkage and negatively impact normal libido and sexual performance.
How can high testosterone be diagnosed and treated?
A blood test measures free testosterone levels and sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) to determine if testosterone levels are above the normal range. Treatment depends on the cause and may include testosterone therapy adjustments, lifestyle changes, or medications to regulate hormone production. Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) is typically used for low testosterone and is not ideal for testosterone excess unless medically necessary.
