High Testosterone: Symptoms & Testing Guide
If you’re experiencing unexplained symptoms like severe acne, hair loss, or mood swings, a high testosterone test might provide answers. High testosterone affects both men and women, though it’s less common than low testosterone. When testosterone levels rise above normal ranges, it can signal underlying health conditions that need attention.
Quick Facts
- What it is: Testosterone levels above the normal range for your age and sex
- Key tests: Total testosterone, free testosterone, SHBG
- Who should test: People with unexplained mood changes, hair loss, or fertility issues
- Cost: $49-$69 for basic testosterone testing
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Understanding High Testosterone
Elevated testosterone isn’t always a problem, but it can indicate serious underlying conditions. Men with high testosterone might have testicular tumors or be using anabolic steroids. Women with elevated levels often have polycystic ovary syndrome affecting 6-12% of reproductive-age women or adrenal disorders.
Normal testosterone ranges vary significantly by age and sex. For adult men, levels typically range from 280-1,100 ng/dL depending on age. Women’s levels are much lower, usually between 8-60 ng/dL. These ranges can vary between laboratories, but consistently elevated results warrant investigation.
Several factors can artificially raise testosterone levels. Testosterone replacement therapy, anabolic steroids, and certain supplements can all cause elevated readings. Some medications and even intense exercise right before testing can temporarily spike levels.
Unlike low testosterone, which affects approximately 2-4 million American men, truly elevated testosterone is relatively uncommon. Most cases occur in women with PCOS or in men using performance-enhancing substances.
Symptoms to Watch For
- Excessive hair growth on face and body (especially in women)
- Severe acne or oily skin
- Irregular or absent menstrual periods (women)
- Male pattern baldness or hair thinning
- Mood swings, aggression, or irritability
- Deepening voice (particularly noticeable in women)
- Unexplained weight gain or difficulty losing weight
- Sleep problems or increased snoring
These symptoms often develop gradually. Women may notice facial hair growth or voice changes first. Men might experience increased aggression or sleep disturbances before other symptoms become apparent.
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Recommended Tests
A comprehensive high testosterone evaluation typically starts with total testosterone measurement. However, this alone doesn’t tell the whole story. Free testosterone and sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) provide a clearer picture of hormone activity in your body.
Your doctor might also recommend additional tests based on your symptoms. These could include luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), or tests for specific conditions like PCOS or thyroid disorders.
Timing matters for accurate results. Testosterone levels peak between 7-10 AM in most people, which is why early morning collection gives the most reliable readings.
Best Testing Services
Several reliable testing services offer testosterone panels without requiring a doctor’s visit first. HealthLabs provides comprehensive testing starting at $49, while Quest Health and Labcorp OnDemand offer similar services with quick turnaround times.
Understanding Your Results
Testosterone test results show your levels in nanograms per deciliter (ng/dL). What’s considered “high” depends on your age, sex, and the specific lab doing the testing. Most labs flag results that fall outside their reference ranges.
A single high reading doesn’t necessarily mean you have a problem. Testosterone levels naturally fluctuate throughout the day and can be affected by stress, illness, medications, and even the time of day you take the test.
If your results come back elevated, your healthcare provider will likely want to repeat the test and possibly order additional blood work. They’ll also consider your symptoms and medical history before making any treatment decisions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes testosterone levels to be too high?
Common causes include PCOS in women, testicular or adrenal tumors, thyroid problems, and use of testosterone supplements or anabolic steroids. Sometimes, certain medications or even intense exercise before testing can temporarily elevate levels.
Can high testosterone affect fertility?
Yes, elevated testosterone can impact fertility in both men and women. In women, it often disrupts ovulation and menstrual cycles. Men with very high levels may actually experience suppressed sperm production through feedback mechanisms in the body.
How accurate are at-home testosterone tests for detecting high levels?
At-home tests using saliva or blood spots can detect elevated testosterone, but they’re generally less precise than lab-drawn blood tests. For suspected high testosterone, most doctors prefer traditional blood draws for the most accurate results.
Should I stop taking supplements before testing?
You should discuss any supplements, medications, or testosterone replacement therapy with your healthcare provider before testing. Some substances can significantly affect your results and may need to be temporarily discontinued for accurate measurement.
How quickly can high testosterone levels be treated?
Treatment timeline depends on the underlying cause. PCOS management may take several months to show results, while stopping testosterone supplements can normalize levels within weeks. Your doctor will monitor progress through follow-up testing.
This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment.
Ready to get tested? Order your test online → — no prescription needed.