Testosterone is the key male hormone in men. Although linked with sexual functions, testosterone has many other roles to play, and women also produce testosterone but in a lower amount.

Also known as an anabolic steroid or androgen, testosterone functions in developing male characteristics. An optimum testosterone level is a prerequisite for the correct development at the right age in males.

Functions of Testosterone

Testosterone levels spike at puberty and start declining after 30 or so—testosterone functions straight from fetal development. The Y chromosome initiates testosterone production from the testes and is responsible for developing male reproductive organs. Then testosterone functions in increasing the penis, prostate, and testes size once puberty hits. It is also responsible for other male characteristics such as deepening the voice, armpit hair, chest, and pubic hair. At the same time, it also helps in spiking the libido. 

Besides playing a role in male organ development, it also ensures bone health and is responsible for optimal fat distribution. Testosterone also plays a role in regulating sex drive, sperm production, and muscle strength. Other than these, it helps in red blood cell production. 

As the name suggests, the testes produce the hormone Testosterone. The adrenal gland also secretes a smaller amount. The production is controlled by the hypothalamus and pituitary gland in the brain. Hypothalamus passes the message to the pituitary gland about the requirement of the hormones. The pituitary gland then passes the message via other messengers in the bloodstream to the testes. 

In females, testosterone is produced by the ovaries and adrenal glands. 

Testosterone Dysfunctions

High or low testosterone levels can create an upheaval and present different symptoms. 

A Low Level of Testosterone Can Result in: 

• Low Sex Drive
• Erectile Dysfunction
• Low Sperm Count
• Swollen Breasts
• Lower Energy
• Weight Gain
• Moodiness
• Low Self-Esteem
• Less Body Hair
• Weaker Bones

Although testosterone levels decrease naturally with age, some other causes can also result in lower testosterone levels. These can be chronic diseases like diabetes, kidney problems, liver cirrhosis, obesity, AIDS, etc. It could also happen due to chemotherapy, castration, or testicular injury. Other reasons could be infections, medications, and hormonal disorders. 

In women, testosterone levels also decline with age. But the lower levels can produce symptoms like low libido, weaker bones, poor concentration, and depression. 

On the other hand, higher levels of the hormone can also lead to some disturbances. Excess testosterone in younger children, male or female, will result in early set puberty, also known as precocious puberty, and even infertility.

In women, a higher level of testosterone might indicate Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome. It can also lead to acne, excess body hair, balding, and deepening of the voice. It could also happen due to conditions like Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia. Ovarian or testicular tumors could also lead to higher testosterone production.

Irrespective of the reason behind higher levels of testosterone, it is definitely abnormal and should need further investigation. 

A simple blood test can help find the testosterone levels in the body. The normal levels of testosterone hormone range from 280 and 1,100 nanograms per deciliter (ng/dL) for adult males and between 15 and 70 ng/dL for adult females. 

Testosterone and Aging

Testosterone levels slowly decline with age and are totally normal. Although the decline is under control, it can diminish faster and produce symptoms of hypogonadism. It is important to consult a doctor to understand the right level of testosterone for your age. 

Also known as, late-set hypogonadism, it can present symptoms like 

• Erectile Dysfunction
• Low Sex Drive
• Mood Changes
• Poor Concentration
• Fatigue
• Less Body Hair
• Decreased Bone Density
• Increased Fat Deposition in The Abdomen
• Depression

Functions of testosterone differ at different ages. But if you have any such symptoms or do not feel like yourself, you should consult a doctor to find the exact cause. 

Treatment Protocols

Synthetic hormone is available in the market, and a doctor prescribes the hormone in the cases it is required. The artificial hormone can be taken orally via injections, gels, or skin patches. 

Testosterone replacement therapy can lead to certain side effects like increased red blood cell production, acne, difficulty breathing while sleeping, fluid retention, and testicular shrinkage. The side effects may vary, and a doctor will need to study your reaction to the hormone given.

The doctor will weigh the pros and cons of the therapy and advise the best for you.

Bottom Line

Testosterone functions as a vital part of a man’s growth. Various functions of testosterone at various ages have been discussed. Take the supplement only if prescribed by the doctor. Do not fall for products marketed to increase libido and other testosterone products. These are gimmicks and might do more harm than good.