Serum Testosterone Level: What It Means, Symptoms of Imbalance, Diagnosis, and Treatment

What is Serum Testosterone Level?

Serum testosterone level is the amount of testosterone found in your blood. Testosterone is a hormone made mainly in the testicles in men and in smaller amounts in women’s ovaries. Doctors often check serum testosterone level with a simple blood test. This test helps find out if your hormone levels are normal or if there is an imbalance.

Why is Serum Testosterone Important?

Testosterone plays a key role in your body. For example, it helps build muscle, supports bone strength, and affects mood. In men, it is important for sperm production and sex drive. In women, it helps with bone health and energy. Because of these roles, a healthy serum testosterone level is important for overall well-being.

Symptoms of Low or High Serum Testosterone

Sometimes, your serum testosterone level can be too low or too high. Both can cause health problems. However, symptoms may differ between men and women. Below are some common signs:

Low testosterone symptoms: Tiredness, low sex drive, mood changes, trouble building muscle, weight gain, and hair loss.

High testosterone symptoms: Acne, oily skin, mood swings, more body hair, and in women, deeper voice or irregular periods.

Because these symptoms can have other causes, it is important to talk to a doctor if you notice changes.

Causes of Abnormal Serum Testosterone Levels

Many factors can affect your serum testosterone level. For instance, age is a common cause. As people get older, testosterone levels often drop. Other causes include:

Chronic illnesses, such as diabetes or kidney disease

Obesity

Injury to the testicles or ovaries

Certain medicines, like steroids or chemotherapy drugs

Genetic conditions

Stress or poor sleep

Because these causes vary, a doctor can help find the reason for your imbalance.

How Serum Testosterone is Diagnosed

Doctors use a testosterone blood test to check your serum testosterone level. Usually, the test is done in the morning when levels are highest. Your doctor may ask you to fast before the test. After the blood is drawn, results are compared to normal ranges for your age and sex. Sometimes, more tests are needed to find the cause of an imbalance.

Treatment Options for Imbalanced Serum Testosterone

Treatment depends on whether your serum testosterone level is too low or too high. For low levels, doctors may suggest:

Testosterone replacement therapy (gels, patches, or injections)

Treating underlying health problems

Changing medicines that affect hormones

For high levels, treatment may include:

Stopping or changing certain medicines

Treating hormone-producing tumors

Other therapies as needed

Because every person is different, your doctor will choose the best plan for you.

Lifestyle Tips for Healthy Testosterone Levels

Healthy habits can help keep your serum testosterone level in balance. For example, you can:

Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and lean protein

Exercise regularly, including both strength and cardio workouts

Get enough sleep each night

Manage stress through relaxation or hobbies

Avoid smoking and limit alcohol

With these steps, you can support your hormone health and overall well-being.

Prevention and When to See a Doctor

“While you cannot prevent all causes of testosterone imbalance, healthy choices can lower your risk. However, if you notice symptoms like tiredness, mood changes, or changes in sex drive, see a doctor. Early testing and treatment can help prevent problems. If you have questions about your serum testosterone level, a healthcare professional can guide you.

Consult a healthcare professional at Chouhan Diagnostic Centre for personalized advice on serum testosterone levels.”