Testosterone is the primary male sex hormone. It plays a vital role in sexual development, muscle mass, bone density, red blood cell production, fat distribution and more.
Testosterone levels peak during adolescence and early adulthood when men experience puberty and rapid growth. After age 30, testosterone levels slowly decline by approximately 1%-2% per year. While this natural decline in testosterone levels is a normal part of aging, levels that are too high or too low can contribute to symptoms that impact quality of life. Monitoring your status with a testosterone level test can provide useful insights into your health.
What causes testosterone levels to change with age?
Testosterone levels naturally decline as men get older. This typically occurs slowly over time and is considered a normal part of aging.
These age-related changes naturally occur because the Leydig cells in the testicles (which make testosterone) produce less testosterone with advancing age. If, however, testosterone levels are lower than expected, it could be a sign of problems with testosterone production or other hormones that interact with testosterone.
Certain health conditions, medications and lifestyle factors can also influence testosterone levels.
Normal testosterone ranges by age
Normal testosterone levels vary throughout the day, from person to person and throughout life. There are various scientific perspectives on what should be considered a normal testosterone level for men in various stages of life. One research study showed that normal ranges based on age in adult men may look something like this:
- Age 40-49: 252-916 ng/dL
- Age 50-59: 215-878 ng/dL
- Age 60-69: 196-859 ng/dL
- Age 70-79: 156-819 ng/dL
Symptoms of low testosterone in men
Some common symptoms of low testosterone include:
- Reduced sex drive and/or erectile dysfunction
- Low sperm counts and potential male infertility
- Increased body fat, often including breast enlargement
- Decrease in testicle size
- Loss of muscle mass and strength
- Decreased endurance
- Depressed mood
- Difficulty concentrating
- Reduced bone density
Low testosterone levels can also complicate and sometimes play a role in serious health conditions like heart disease, diabetes and osteoporosis.
Should I get my testosterone levels checked?
The Endocrine Society recommends men get testosterone testing if they have symptoms associated with low testosterone. Ideally, testosterone testing is done in the morning after fasting overnight. If the result is lower than expected, the testing is typically repeated. Healthcare providers will also consider testing for men with certain chronic health conditions such as diabetes, HIV/AIDS or chronic narcotic use.
With a simple testosterone blood test, you can check your hormone levels and determine whether your results are reassuringly normal or if perhaps a discussion with your healthcare provider might be helpful to further investigate and potentially address your symptoms.
Healthy lifestyle choices to support testosterone
Leading a healthy lifestyle is important to maintain normal testosterone levels and potentially even offset the natural decline that occurs with aging. Some healthy habits that can help support your testosterone levels include:
- Exercising regularly
- Eating a healthy diet
- Maintaining a healthy weight
- Limiting stress
- Optimizing sleep quality
- Avoiding excessive alcohol and drug use
What about testosterone replacement therapy?
If lifestyle changes don't relieve low testosterone symptoms, testosterone replacement therapy may be an option under the care of a healthcare provider. Potential benefits include increases in energy, libido, sexual function, muscle mass and bone density.
However, testosterone therapy can also be associated with potential health risks like worsening of sleep apnea, acne, prostate problems and heart failure. Be sure to talk to your provider about whether a trial of treatment with testosterone replacement therapy makes sense for your symptoms.
Take charge of your health
Changes in testosterone levels are an inevitable part of aging. Still, you know your body better than anyone; if you sense that something is off, consider testing your testosterone levels, step up your healthy lifestyle choices and talk to your healthcare provider about further evaluation and treatment options if needed.
