Normal Testosterone Levels

What is considered a "normal" testosterone level for a healthy 45 year old man?  I have been suffering from a variety of symptoms consistent with low testosterone: low sex drive, lack of morning erections, less intensity during ejaculation, less hard erections, irritability, etc..  I had my doctor run blood tests and everything came back normal.  Testosterone was 257 on a scale of 241 - 800.  Doctor says this is normal and will not consider hormone treatments.  The only medication I take is a statin, which has lowered my cholestorol to normal levels.  I am not overweight, nor do I feel depressed.  This has become a major quality of life issue, as my wife is feeling somewhat undeisrable and neglected. I'm not ready to give up on a healthy sex life, but now that my doctor has determined thal all is "normal," I'm not sure what my next step is.  I have unable to find a chart that lists normal testosterone levels by age.  I'm hoping that if I could find some evidence of what I suspect (that my testosterone is indeed low) then I might be able to convince my doctor to consider treating me.  Can you help?

[Dr_Veena]

Hi,
      Thanks for writing in. What you may consider normal testosterone levels for
one person, may be different for another. As when you age, your testosterone requirements can change over time. The typical male testosterone level is between 250ng/dl to 850 ng/dl. In a 45 year old man normal testosterone levels are around 600 ng/dl.

Discuss with your doctor regarding the symptoms you have and ask for a hormone replacement therapy.
Best.

[ed1223]

Thank you for your response.  I have discussed this with my doctor and he maintains that my number (257) is normal and that no hrt is necessary.  I was hoping to find a study or a medical reference or a medical chart that listed normal testosterone levels by age so that I could go back to him with that and convince him to treat me.  Any suggestions?

[Dr_Veena]

Hi,
     How are you? I can understand your situation, but I would suggest that you discuss with your doctor regarding, why he does not want HRT for you. In some patient’s with obesity, treating obesity itself resolves the condition, but it takes time and is a safer method. Also, check the link provided below for age related testosterone levels chart and other information.
http://www.mens-hormonal-health.com/normal-testosterone-levels.html

[ed1223]

Thank you.  I will take the chart and talk to him about why is doesn't want to treat me.  I am not overweight, so that isn't the issue.  If he still declines to treat me, what sort of doctor should I see next - a urologist or an endocrinologist?

[James186282]

First, I'm not a doctor so take this as 2 cents worth from a fellow patient.  From what I've read what is normal Testosterone levels and what is considered treatable has changed a bit in the last couple of years.  There are some good references out there that may help you understand what the current thinking is.

Google the AACE Guidelines to Male Hypogonadism.  This is a little bit dated but I think if you want hard technical information on this condition that will be a good reference.  Its not easy reading however.  If you want a book that is geared for the patient I liked "The Testosterone Syndrome" by Dr E. Shrippen.  He writes in an easy to read style that I think you will enjoy.

As to what is normal.  The doctor is correct.  Age plays a factor.  Download the Age vs (Average) Testosterone chart in the Files area.

http://health.groups.yahoo.com/group/supportEDpartners

If you look it over you will see that at your level it would be "normal" but you would need to be over 100 years old!  Not good.  The average normal level at your age is  over 600 ng/dL and the current thinking from the AACE guidelines is that levels under 325 ng/dL are the new treatment (or further diagnosis at least) indicated.  If you have symptoms be sure your doctor knows about them because this is a piece they need to know.

Try to find out if your form of Hypogonadism is primary or secondary.  If you have testicular failure there are a variety of treatments that will work (Androgel, Androderm, Testim, Injectable Testosterone etc)  If the failure is the control signals to the testes they can try a variety of meds to try to kick start them into function but they should try to figure out why these hormone signals are not present.  

Be proactive!  Keep on this and work with your doctor.  Don't be afraid to read up about this and share what you find.  But DO remember that what you read on the Internet in particular may not be medical fact.

- James

[accesstd]

I went through the exact same thing. My test level was 218 and I am 35 years old. Lots of good and accurate advice given so far on this message string. But, one thing you may want to look into that hasn't been mentioned is the possibility of a pituitary tumor. Yes, it is a type of brain tumor, but don't freak out. I found out that I had one and that it was the culprit behind my problems. Get an MRI done. If it comes back clean, then I would start researching the hrt and the possibility of hypogonadism. But, if you do have a tumor, get it removed. There are other complications other than low testosterone that the tumor can do. My surgery was done through the nose, and I was out of the hospital in 5 days. Unfortunately, my tumor caused permanent damage to my pituitary and I ended up having to be on hrt. But, I was lucky enough to save my eyesight. Good luck.

[rafe44]

I know what your going thru. I'm a 44 yr old male. My libdo had gone to nothing and my wife was feeling un loved and i thought i was going crazy. Because i always enjoyed sex. So i got blood tested and my level was 125. So i ask to beput on test. We started with andro gel 10mg for about 3 months and i was tested again . I had not noctice any change and my level was 150. So i ask for the injections and we started at 1cc of 200 mg depo test a month. I did it for two months and just went back this monday for blood work and my testosterone level had dropped to 135! So nw he pu me on 1cc every two weeks. I will make sure i ask them to check my glands out! I know he felt around and looked up my nose and throat,bu no MRI was done. But Ed i know what your going thru, Low test cause alot more problems than just sexual.It seems im tired , with no entergy all the time. But to look at me you'd think im a very healthy guy. Not over weight at all. He thinks my problem may stem from a terrible Motorcycle accident i was in 9-1-04 that has caused me to have over 50 operations . The last being 10-08. So if you've had any serious broken bones or head injuries it could be a thought. Hope this helps.

[christopher47]

Hey Rafe. Please tell me more about this connection between the trauma/accident and the low testosterone levels. I'm 47 and very athletic. In May 2008, while I was hiking, a freak gust of wind blew me off a 60-foot cliff. I almost died. I broke 11 ribs in multiple places, pierced both lungs and both lungs collapsed, I shattered my left shoulderblade, crushed my L1 vertebrae, all my transverse processes on the left side of my thoracic spine were sheared off, and had blunt trauma and a laceration to the head. It's a miracle I survived. I'm mostly recovered and am primarily just dealing with the chronic pain from all that my body went through. Was doing a lot better until about three months ago (May 2009) when I started having a set of symptoms that just debilitated me. I spent half of June in bed with extreme fatigue/exhaustion; difficulty concentrating, focusing and thinking; terrible headaches; nausea and dizziness; and a general feeling of being "unwell." My primary care physician didn't know what was going on, so I switched PCPs. The new guy ordered an MRI of my head to rule out a brain tumor (the results only showed "cerebral atrophy consistent with a 47-year-old male" ... jeez) but he noticed that my thyroid/pituitary readings were out of whack and he couldn't figure out why, so he sent me to an endocrinologist, who I saw yesterday and who re-tested my TSH and T4 and found my thyroid/pituitary readings back to normal. But he also tested my testosterone and my total testosterone was 169 (normal is 175-781, and as one of the guys in this thread pointed out, guys our age should have testosterone readings around 600). We're waiting for my "free" vs. "bound" testosterone reading to come back (it won't be in for another week), but I'm wondering why my testosterone is so low. You and I are both around the same age, with similar test. readings, and we both have the tired/no energy thing going on (even though we look healthy). My interest is in this connection between trauma (your motorcycle accident/operations and my fall off the cliff) and our bodies' low testosterone production. Please keep me informed of anything more you find out about that connection between trauma and low testosterone.

Also, have you been taking a narcotic to treat your pain from the accident and operations? I've been taking oxycodone for over a year now, and I'm wondering if there's a connection between narcotic usage for chronic pain and suppressed testosterone production.

[wilfredtr]

WoW. Guys, I have just one thing to say. GET ANOTHER DOCTOR. Do not let "your doctor" play God in your life. He's someone elses Dr also, so there no reason for you to have him/her as your only Doctor. I had low T, 157 and for TWO YEARS, I got all the blah blah blah that I see in this post. The biggest issue with Low T (under 300 total) is finding the right doctor. DO's rather than MD's seem to know better. Get on this moderated Group and find out the truth.

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/hypogonadism2/summary

[jake1977]

To Rafe44 & Christompher47. I know for a FACT that anyone taking opioid narcotic pain medicin for an extended period of time will have an extremely HIGH chance of having Low Test. I have been seeing a pain specialist for over 4 years now. My monthly pain meds include 15x100mg fentanyl + 60 Opana ER 40mg pills(these ar a little over twice the strength of "2" 80mg Oxycotin), 120 Percocets & mucsle relaxer. My Pain doc recently tested my test and it was 164. I am 32 years ol 6ft 3in tall, weigh 220 lbs, played college football, ^& am in decent shape considering I have just started excericising again after 10 years(VERY light exercise). My pain doc told me that ANYONE who has been on pain killers for an extended period of time will more than likely have low T when tested. He has just put me on this med called andro gel. Have not picked up from pharmacy yet and tried though. I had depression (did not know it until i started taking webutrin to stop smoking and just kind of woke up one morning with a little brighter outlook on life), not as strong erections, tired ll of the time, not alot of enjoyment out of life,etc. Still have a decent sexdrive, but not as strong as once before. will keep posted on how gel works.

[rcarbery]

I had my testosterone recently checked and it came back at 236, I am 40 years old.  I have steatohepatitus (according to liver biopsy done in June) enlarged spleen (mri), enlarged lymph nodes (visually noticable), (hiv neg, had test done several times)(hep a,b,c ..ect came back clean).  I have constant diehrea, abdominal pains, NO energy, I get dizzy a lot with any slight movement, I can sleep 10 hrs at night and get up to do things around the house and be ready to go back to bed within 20 minutes of getting up.  I am starting to have really bad depression because of the doctors telling me there is nothing wrong with me out of one side of their mouth then tell me all this other stuff at the same time!!
I told my Family dr that I have been falling down the stairs when I attmept to go downstairs, his comment "well things happen quickly" .. like what the hell is that supposed to mean?  My billiruben was 2.14 in June (had blood work for a life ins policy - which was denied) and then last month it went up to 2.4..  If there is nothing wrong with me, why is it I got denied for a 20k life insurance policy due to my medical history? and why is it that I am so tired all the time? I am wondering what it is they are NOT telling me.  and I applied for SSDI twice and was turned down both times, I am appealing it this time.  I have no clue what to do at this point.

[John_42]

I am a LOT less tired after starting treatments, where my T was tested at 168!!! I now feel like King Kong, and am back to working out and nearing the physical conditioning I had 10 years ago. Life, including my sexual functions, are night and day. I am able to run again, lift weights without fatiguing too easily, and am losing weight.

For anyone who is low on the normal range, I encourage you to look into trying this therapy. Of course you should consult with a proper physician. If you get a 'no' answer, see another. I connected with a urologist after being told I didn't need this by my internal med doctor, and can relate many examples where I had legitimate conditions where doctors swore I had no problem. It took five to find one who could feel my hernias, for example ... three of them. I knew my body, and I knew they were there.

And I agree ... there's a range ... try this and see where it 'feels right'.  

It's changing my life in six months, after feeling like dogcrap for at least 10.

[RANDO88]

Instead of the Andro Gel, I would recommend taking self injections of testosterone. I am no fan of needles, but I found that after taking about 3 injections that it is painless and a fraction of the cost of the gel or testosterone patches. One excellent site to check is  thehiddendisease.com. I especially like the patient interviews. Well worth a look.

[Demosthenes12]

I have been told I have low test levels, I am 24 years old. I still want to have kids, and all so I am thinking of holding off, but my doctor seems set on the gels and from my research do not really wanna go down the gel road. Any advice? Also will I see any growth, or balding or gyno? I figured not because I am just bringing my test levels up to a normal level. One thing though is he hasn't even discussed what may be causing a otherwise healthy 24 yr male to have this problem.

[Jen386]

My husband has had low T since he was 19.  The injections work the best, although he hated the needles so he went to Testim.  There should eventually be a new drug coming called AVEED. This used to be Nebido. My husband was on the clinical trial and I cired when they took him off of it. 1 shot every 3 months. Worked miracles! One thing to remember, if you don't take your medicine, you not only will have no sex drive, but it effects your mood also. Please do not forget your wife!!!  She is suffering right along with you. I can't tell you how many times I cried because my husband isn't "normal"!! Men are supposed to chase their wives for sex and when they don't...we think something is wrong! If my husband even misses 1 dose of his medicine, I can tell. The other thing to remember is, your body is not producing hormones. A normal body would. So, you work out, work hard labor, run, jog, whatever...your body uses that testosterone up. A normal body,  no problem just make more...guys with this problem...not so simple. Then you are a little low.  With my husband being a construction worker this is an issue. He's on 2 tubes of testim a day. 2 boxes of this stuff a month because he works hard labor everyday.  To this day, (he's 27 now) we have no idea why he has this. He went through puberty fine, we had 2 kids and then bam...no tumor just stopped.  He has gotten hairy from the hormones so if body hair is an issue with you, facial hair, you will grow it out. If you want someone to talk to that knows what you're going through, you or your wife, feel free to email us at ***@****, we'd be glad to help!!

[bg43]

Am 22 year old ex College Baseball player, had gotten testicular cancer and underwent removal of one testie and chemo, since then low energy, depression, lack of concentration, no drive for work out, muscle growth basically impossible. Got levels tested and my testosterone was 300 which I think is low for my age. What is best product to boost my levels back up?? injections, creams, HGH??? Any advice??

Thank you

[sundevil55]

I had all of the same symptoms everybody else had . Tired , grumpy no sex drive ,impossible to work out or get into shape because of fatigue . I had my testosterone checked it was 250 . I am 47 . My doctor said it was normal. A friend of my sent me to a Doc that raises tour testosterone  using bio similar  steroids . No side effects supposedly . He put six pellets in my hip .It's been 3 weeks and I feel terrific . I haven't had my blood test to check my testosterone but I suspect it will be in the six hundred range . I suggest to anyone to have your testosterone level raised  with bio similar steroids. Oh by the way it lasts six months .

[anonymiss21]

No ones mentioned zinc here. If your deficient in zinc, that would definately cause low testosterone levels. An easy cheap way to check is the zinc taste test. To sum it, you just mix zinc sulphate and water and drop it on your tongue, then count seconds until you taste it. I've also noticed on one here has mentioned the supplument adt. I was taking ADT'
s but didn't get the results I was looking for until I started supplumenting with zinc. With adt's their are no worries about your body cutting it's own production and when you stop taking them, your body just goes back to normal. They are considered safe, but no long term studies have been done yet though the short studies all look good though they do increase your dht levels as well as the testosterone so many people notice side effects like balding, enlarged pituatary gland, and acne so unless you are working out and trying to gain muscle mass, you should probably just try the zinc test.

[anonymiss21]

not pituatary, they enlarge the prostate gland from the increased dht levels.

[ddg550]

Hi.  I just signed on to make a comment that might help.  Those of you with doctors refusing to bring levels to optimal should really consider seeing another doctor.  Most "Knowledgeable" doc's these days consider anything under 325 or 350 to be too low, and higher than that is typical for younger men and "optimal", not "normal" health.  It's normal to have high cholesterol, too, that doesn't mean it's 'good'.  One thing you might consider looking into....Hormone Pellets.  I know several men AND women taking these in our area, but there are limited practioneers with certification.  Look under Sotto Pelle for info on the internet.  Been used in Europe for years.  Bioidentical hormone pellets (testosterone for men, both testosterone and estrogen avail. for women) injected under the skin produce steady, continuous release of hormone.  Usually lasts 3-6 months depending on person.  Again, limited doc's available, but might be helpful for some of you.  Good luck.

[bstee]

Help...I am very confused.  I've had all of the appearances of being hypothyroid for years (intollerance to cold, absolutely zero excersize ability, can't walk a flight of stairs yet appear healthy 190#'s) yet every year I ask for a thyroid test it comes back the opposite (low TSH, meaning high thyroid) so the docs just tell me not to worry about but my 20 years of fatigue have been exhausting.  Now, at age 42 I got tested as we are trying to have a baby.  Everything checked out on that but they checked my testosterone and it just came back at (44).  It looks like that is a really low number.  Since my count is very good I am confused.  I didn't get checked in the morning, but it still seems like a testosterone number of 44 is  low enough that I should follow up on.  I am searching the boards and don't see anything about guys with a number like this,  Should I do anything about it or just not worry?

[GXanon]

You guys are way off. The only meaningful measure of testosterone is bioavailable testosterone, i.e. the "free" testosterone that  is unbound to sex steroid binding globulin. All of the above posts speak only of the "total" testosterone, which is a useless figure. You could be oozing with total testosterone and still be deficient if you also have high levels of binding globulin. Normal levels of bioavailable testosterone are 2.00 to 8.60 nmol/L. That's it. Everything else is irrelevant.

[aliveandkicking]

I think most of you guys should consider seeing a sicologist (this people are doctors too, and can help in a field where others can't) and keep your md because he actually cares for you and knows that anything foreign or synthetic to the human body may have side effects I am 40 at 252 and I take care of my wife 3 or more times/week with no problem and as far as energy are you guys eating healthy or do you guys think hamburgers are a good source of energy for a highly efficient machine as your body is.  We all have many things to do that actually make us forget that life goes by quickly and we should enjoy every minute of it as if it's the only life we have, yes just being a little sarcastic, hope it works.  My two cents. Lets try to always see the glass half full and not half empty, if you guys are writing here and there that means you actually have energy and are motivated to try and help your self and others to feeling better at least by socializing, so take the same steps you take on the internet and live life outside your door, believe it,being around people brings out lots of energy.

[sportsreportertx]

I am 38 years old and 3 years ago I went to the doctor complaining of low energy, feeling lethargic, depression. Basically I felt like I had the flu but no sneezing or coughing of fever. My doctor did my blood work and found my test level to be 133. We tried the patches I felt a little better but I sweat a lot and they would fall off during work or while coaching my sons baseball team. I hated the gel because I sleep without a shirt and had to put the gel on at night. I asked my doctor for injections and she didn't feel comfortable prescribing them. She suggested I see an endocrinologist. I put it off for a year and when I could not take it any more I went to a male doctor who is a GP. He is very well studied in HRT and when I asked for injections he prescribed them no questions asked. He told me start at 1cc every other week. I took my first injection and with in hours started feeling better. After a week I could tell I just wasnt there yet. I went to 1cc every week and was tested again. My levels were in the mid 400 range. Seeing as I started working out again I wanted my levels to be on the upper end of the safe scale. I wanted to take advantage of the product I am using and am now taking 1.5 cc every week and my levels are currently in the 900 range and my doctor said that I was fine. The problem with taking Testosterone Ciponate at this level is the water retention and bloating. My blood pressure has always run a little hi and so I am now on blood pressure medicine with a diuretic to loose the water weight. I admit I need to drop some weight and have changed my diet dramatically and can see my new muscle is burning off the fat. I plan on maintaining my current intake of Test and increasing my cardio and reducing my sodium to get my blood pressure down. I would say not to be scared of injections and stay at 1cc a week max. You will feel like a 20 year old again soon and any side effects will be minimal because you a getting back to normal levels. Take advantage of the product you are taking and start a light free weight work out just remember you joints need to catch up to your new found strength.

[jimmyo38]

I was just at the doctors got my blood  test results t levels were 250 , I am in good shape and workout but recently felt lack of energy not going to the gym and was very stressed out not depressed  just couldnt get a grip always worried not sure about what just everything . I too had an injury ,feel through a ceiling a few years ago and screwed  up my lower back went to chiropractor and had accupuncture. Pain is manageable now just couldnt deal with the feeling of dispair and than I started having problems in the bedroom. I am 40 and was not prepared for this so I went to the doctors, he new what was going on and did blood work ,we discussed my options and tomorrow I start my first round of injections, I will keep you posted on my results .Anyone who doesnt like what your doctor is telling you should go get a new one, you have to fight for you self and make sure they help you .Good Luck to all of you .

[James186282]

Just an updated comment.  How you get HRT is not as important as how well it works.   I've done both Androgel and Injections and they both work but they also both needed a number of labs and a sit downs with the doctor to talk over the results before the levels were adjusted so it worked.  Re the 100mg Injections every two weeks?  In my experience thats really really low.  Ask your doctor to get you into range and quit trying to dial you up from zilch.  Weekly injections are a better experience due to the half life of most (US) injectable testosterones.  *In my personal experience.  And start at 100mg or more.  *A week not every other week.

To the poster who said free testosterone is the "only" way to measure.  Most doctors go by Total Testosterone and use the labs normal ranges to decide if you need HRT or not.  One thing that ought to be factored in are your symptoms.  Its also of value to note that the guidelines that suggest what is normal changed a bit due to the 2002 AACE guidelines (USA) In my amateur opinion there is also value in factoring in the age of the patient versus his testosterone levels.

[mgbeach]

I'm 31 years old, male, and have been increasingly fatigued, and finally went to see the doc.  I can hardly stay awake during the day and it has started to affect my job.

I've got pretty severe cervical spine issues (bulging discs, stenosis, arthritis, bone spurs, etc) and have been on opiates for quite some time, which as I've come to understand can have the side effect of lowering testosterone levels (would have been nice if that was ever mentioned by my doctor who prescribed them).

At any rate, I had a blood test on Monday and got the results today that my testosterone is at 72.  From looking at the normal ranges that seems extremely low, so hopefully we've hit on the reason for my symptoms.

I'm going to see the urologist tomorrow and was wondering if there were any questions I should make sure to ask.  Also, from your experience, how quickly does treatment start taking effect? Thanks in advance

[Shawn4789]

Anyone heard of a supplement called SD-200?  Many of your stories are hitting home with me.  I am 45 and my T is at 256, my doctor says its fine; I say no.  Erections are not as hard, its harder for me to build muscle mass and lose body fat (no I am not obese, but I could lose a few).

[LowTs]

I am a 55yoa male who suddenly expieranced extreame fatique and low to no sex drive.  I am a very active male and found myself stuck to the couch. I could walk to the mailbox only to find myself exausted from the short walk. I lost intrest in outdoor activities I loved and lost the sexual desire for my wife that I adored. It was suddenly as if I had a bad case of the flu without the sniffles or fevor. I went to my family MD and explained the symptoms and he drew blood to check levels. On my return visit It was explained to me that my testosterone levels were low..well below 100 ng/dl. So he started treatment with a T replacement Gel. Three months later we checked my levels again. I had seen no and felt very little improvement since my last visit and was concerned for my health. Well....no changes...infact my  T levels were lower. The Doc explained that sometimes it takes time and the gel does not work the same for everybody so we decided to start  with injections in four week intervals. After two injections with no changes we went to injections every two weeks. I finally started feeling like myself with more energy and better sexual performances with my wife. Finally....we were on the right track. It took three more injections every two weeks and my T levels were back in the 600+ levels. I was back and feeling more like myself. It was explained to me that one possible reason for my T level drop was due to pain meds. I have been on a routine of pain meds for the last 12 years due to numerous back issues and surgerys. Opiates can cause your T levels to drop and they did causing hypogonadism. Let me tell you guys......I have never felt so bad and fatigued in my life! I truly thought the worst and thought the Dr was going to find something that was terminal. Believe me....your wife and family suffers as well. With me things happened gradual then...WHAM.....I could not get off of the couch. I lost intrest in hobbies I loved. I was to exausted to play very long with my grand kids.I lost intrest and performance in sex with my soulmate. My wife was so effected that she thought I did not find her appealing or love her as much as I once did. Well...as you might guess all these changes caused mood swings with bouts of depression as well. But.... I am back.....thanks to persistance in me sticking with the seeming slow proccess of finding the right dose...And most of all thanks to the family Dr who listened to my problems and worked hard at exploring new ways of helping solve them. There are different ways in which T levels are percieved and treated. Every one is different and take different methods and ways to treat. Be open with your Dr and explain all your symptoms you are having. And of course.... if you feel that you are not getting the treatment that is helping you....then find a second opinion. It is not only a Drs job to help with your health concerns and problems....it is also your job as well. Good Luck      

[xoman]

I play baseball with a bunch of 20 somethings and I'm 47.  Wanting to compete with them and feeling like I was slowing down, I asked my doctor to check my tes.  It came back low on the normal side.  He prescribed a tes cream I rub on a muscle everyday.  Been using it for a year now and just tested at 828.  I also take DHEA, and several vitamins, but he said I was vitamin D deficient and told me to take 2000ui per day.  I gotta say I feel great.  Started back at the gym taking a pre-workout mix and feel like I did when I was 21.  I highly encourage anyone that is middle aged gaining that waistline weight to get checked.  It will make your quality of life much better.

[popad]

Hellos everyone!
I am 24 yr old male and my testosterone level is 432 on a scale of 280-800. My doctor said it was absolutely fine. However my research online suggests this as low for a 24 yr old. I am very sure i wont be a candidate for any kind of medications to boost this but with these levels they are sure to drop to 200's when I am 40. any suggestions?

[MarkAnthony50]

Its just more then Low T, get a full blood panel work done, if you smoke stop asap, if you are a heavy drinker cut back, if you are over weight get in to the gym.If you take pain meds stop or cut back. Don't rely on these miracle T Shot's. They have some really horrible side effects hence this is (Steriods) Mood swings and I mean rip someones head off and throw it down the road, some people have told me they feel uneasy nervous energy aggressive in a unnatural way.
I got a major attitude of T shots. I got big muscles over night and Im 50 well I been working out since I was 13 however, I turned in to a *******.Changed my whole demeanor not good.
The drug can damage the heart(or if you have a preexisting) heart problem watch out, liver damage, kidney failure among other stressful things to the body.
If you need a hard on pop the blue pill but first get your *** in the gym get some iso vitamins  and hit that gym. Its called WORK its not easy oh I feel tired well fight it do it natural before you think about the so called T shot(Steroid) heart enlargement if it builds your body muscle hello the heart is your primary and only muscle you should worry about.
Try Yohimbe bark and other supplements.
Remember this T shot Shuts your stuff down your natural production of the hormone leaving you will Little if any Balls Sorry however, its true, then not always will you get hard and here you have all this T in you and the desire and your **** says Not today now here comes the Roid rage aspect.
Before anything make sure the T therapy is something you want to jump in to, its not a wonder drug.
Beware and forewarned! It's not for everyone!

[popad]

Yeah totally true!! not at all eager to get on to HRT ! I am sure not everyone wants it...
yes i have been working out for the past 2-3 months... doc did say to get some multivitamins... and you got it right been smoking for the past 6-7 yrs.. quit now!!
how do pain medications affect though??
may be some zinc supplements would help or tribulus terrestris ...  

[MarkAnthony50]

Hey friend, smoking is bad bad bad I know I smoke.However, after the first of the year I am done. So I'm not preaching I am in the same boat.
Diet, working out, drinking a lot of water, I never believed it until I tried it.The more H20 the more sperm count, yep then test will rise. Smoking kills it tho.
Diet, stay away from fried foods, eat more fiber, fruits, salads hey Mcdonalds has a killer salad Southwestern with chicken good stuff!!!
its never to late to get in shape, bed at 10pm up at 7, helps hormone levels, stress will knock it down.
I know I was on test and my persona changed and it bummed me out cause well I looked and felt great, and my gal was happy. However, it revealed its ugly face(T)shots got to me, I started acting different very volatile and that's when I said ok time to give this a rest.
They should make this with out the aggression part, and I do believe that's call HGH, which I am all over getting info on.
Merry Christmas all

[popad]

merry christmas to you too man!! its been a month i quit smoking.. feeling good ...will check my levels again after 4-5 months..with a good healthy lifestyle and hope it improves

[Bravo57]

I am 53 yrs old, I had blood work done 1/07/2011, today I called about my results, my T level is 288, TSH 2.647, and I have all those signs of low T, feeling poorly, just not having the zest for life as one needs, having to make myself get up and do something, feeling tried and weak with, and no sex drive whatsoever.  After reading some of your in puts to this site, I hope my doctor will at least allow me the opportunity to try the injections to see if they resolve my situation.  I also have read that if you take these injections, one needs to take a estrogen blocker, I am open to the facts on this, surely don't want no ***** ****. I look forward to any helpful comments and/or advice...Thanks!

[menshealth99]

There are good natural testosterone replacement creams that do not require  a prescription.  These are all-natural plant-based solutions with no known side effects.  You can read more at:http://www.menshealthcures.com/3461/review-of-natural-radiance-testosterone-cream/

[billw810]

You couldn't be further from the truth. One if the T-shots gave you roid rage then your T-levels must have been within normal range to begin with. As for liver or kidney damage, wrong again. The shots are not processed by either the liver or kidney so you would not have a problem their. Oral steroids however would be processed by either and could cause problems. Some of what you say is true but only for a person who already is producing the normal levels of T and does not need to supplement it. As for it shutting down your testicles and shrinking them, once again it only does this if your body does not really need the treatment. My levels are as follows with the level I should be at in parentheses. SHBG- 23.9 (40.1)nmol/L; Total T- 236 (668) ng/dL; Free T- 5.4 (10.3) ng/dL. You should not speak if you do not know everyone's circumstances, that is called ignorance. I worked out up until about a year ago, I'm 44 and have been doing so for over 20 years. It was like hitting a wall one day I just lost all desire, energy, and went into a depression. If I had not brought this up to my physician I would not know why I have been feeling this way for almost a year now. It has only gotten worse since they put me on anti-depressants, so now I will be going this route after fully studying the pro's and con's of the treatment. Everyone is different in their needs and problems, maybe you were an a-hole to begin with.

[angus1121]

i have the opposite problem, if it is one. my doc wants me to go to an endocrinolist. had all the syptoms (symptoms) of low testosterone so we checked and came back 1405. go figure.cant find any reference to high levels so not sure how bad a problem it is. must be one if i have to go to an endocrinologist. anyone?

[SaxonMike]

I might as well stick in my 2 cents here and tell my story.  I’m 45 years old but have the body of an 80 year old man. I aged 40 years in the past 5 years.  I live in Scottsdale, AZ and see lots of retirees playing tennis and golf all over the valley.  These people are 25 years older than me having the time of their life and here I am in need of a walker or a wheel chair.  My T-test came back at 345.  Now I understand the norm is from 300-1000.  But 345 is perfectly normal for an 81 year old man.  And 1000 is normal for a 21 year old.  And I am not anywhere near the normal.  It all started around 6 years ago.
For 20 years I was in the gym doing the bodybuilding thing natural except for 1 cycle or roids.  Never had a problem ever.  My life was girls, gym, tanning and work.  Not anymore.  Low-T hit me hard and fast.  I was feeling like crap from 2005 to present.  I thought I was maturing or something.  Just wanted to stay home and was always tired.  Erections where ½ way there.  No real desire to do much.  I even left the gym for long periods.  I focused on other things like Real Estate investment.  The past 6 years I knew something was wrong.  I can feel it.  When you are in the working out thing for 20 years with hard dieting you listen to your body.  And my body was screaming for help.
I started to see doctors about 10 months ago in March 2010 after food poisoning from bad Sushi.  I went to the hospital and $3,000 later I had massive tests done.  Thankfully I had insurance and the bill was around $300.  I took my stack of papers from the hospital and seeked doctors.  One doctor after another I asked questions.  Do I have diabetes doctor?  The answer is no.  Now have a nice day and thanx for the $50 co-pay we will charge your insurance the other $200.  Next doctor appointment.  Do I have a blood disease? The answer is no.  Now have a nice day and thanx for the $50 co-pay we will charge your insurance the other $200.  I continued the appointments.  Do I have a STD?  No.  Do I have cancer?  No.  All no no no.  Well then what the hell is wrong with me??  Something is wrong I can feel it.  I feel like someone ran over me with their car.  Daily.  I can’t walk.  I can’t get out from my car without looking like an 80 year old man.  I have no desire to do anything.  I am severely tired.  Worn out.  My body feels bruised 24-7.  OK.  I took matter into my own hands now.  Started to type in my conditions into the computer.  Low-testosterone started to pop-up.  Took the test came back 345.  The doctor padded me on the shoulder and said,” Yer fine and welcome to old age.”  Next took another test with an endocrinologist.  This doctor said the same.  Then I found what I was looking for.  7 years of being sickly.  10 months of near death.  I clicked on blogs like this.  All my questions where answered.  People like us frustrated, yelling, uncertain, confused and royally pissed off.  And lots of doctors will not treat Low-T because they are stuck in the dark ages.  Only we know how we feel, and many doctors are just running scared after being brainwashed in college that testosterone's only use is usually a form of abuse that will land them in malpractice.  I won’t give up and have an appointment with a LOW-T guy who might be the right doctor for me.  I will keep everyone posted.
Here are some good advice for testosterone gels I got from a person I met in in LOW-T BLOGS.

I guess I'll start by saying that although the free (i.e. non-bound) testosterone test yields the most significant metric with respect to your testosterone levels, your total testosterone level of 325 ng/dl is a fairly good indication that your free testosterone is probably very low for a man your age.  So if you ask me, you absolutely should start replacement therapy immediately to get those total numbers north of 700 and, more importantly, your free numbers in the top of the normal range too.  How to do it?

TestoCreme is the cheapest and overall best option I know for raising Testosterone levels and keeping them there the rest of your life.  It may be covered by Blue Cross/Blue Shield, but even if it isn't (mine isn't covered by my insurance), it probably isn't far from the co-pay for AndroGel.  That's mostly because AndroGel went through extensive testing to become a name brand product (to the tune of tens of millions), so they are trying to recoup that expense before it goes generic, which usually erodes sales.  TestoCreme, on the other hand, never went through this validation nor does it have to because the base components have already been approved by the FDA.  As such TestoCreme can be duplicated by other companies without legal penalty, although at the relative low price they are selling it at Central Avenue Pharmacy, there isn't much incentive.  Central Avenue Pharmacy sells a 60-gram bottle of TestoCreme, enough testosterone to raise your free and total levels to high normal for about 4 to 8 weeks, depending on your particular skin's absorption characteristic, body fat, estrogen conversion rate, etc. for around $70 delivered.  That means you end up paying between $35 to $70 per month to positively achieve a stable testosterone level where you want it in the worst case that your insurance doesn't cover it and a lot less if it does.  AndroGel, on the other hand, will run you a copay per month and cost the insurance company hundreds a month (such a waste).  I also tried, out of pure curiosity since my medical insurance covered it, AndroGel many years ago for a month and found it messy and annoying to apply.  It smells like alcohol--of course it should since alcohol is the gel solvent.  The smell didn't bother me too much (unlike Testim which smells like urine), but I'd rather apply something that almost has no smell except a very slight pleasant one like TestoCreme does.    To be honest, to me TestoCreme has a really fantastic odor like the best smelling stuff ever, but I think I like the smell more than average for some odd reason.  Also because AndroGel is a 1% (rather than 10%) preparation that doesn't absorbs at a rate comparable to Androgel, you need to apply a lot more Androgel (ten times as much), smearing it each day all over you in a couple square foot of skin.  I don't know about you, but I'm not into taking a alcohol gel bath each day.

If you go with TestoCreme, like any transdermal testosterone replacement medication, it'll take from a couple weeks to a few months to bring your T level where you want.  You might initially take more to accelerate the process, depending on the style of your doctor, but eventually you and your doc will get there; it's worth the wait.

[SaxonMike]

I might as well stick in my 2 cents here and tell my story.  I’m 45 years old but have the body of an 80 year old man. I aged 40 years in the past 5 years.  I live in Scottsdale, AZ and see lots of retirees playing tennis and golf all over the valley.  These people are 25 years older than me having the time of their life and here I am in need of a walker or a wheel chair.  My T-test came back at 345.  Now I understand the norm is from 300-1000.  But 345 is perfectly normal for an 81 year old man.  And 1000 is normal for a 21 year old.  And I am not anywhere near the normal.  It all started around 6 years ago.
For 20 years I was in the gym doing the bodybuilding thing natural except for 1 cycle or roids.  Never had a problem ever.  My life was girls, gym, tanning and work.  Not anymore.  Low-T hit me hard and fast.  I was feeling like crap from 2005 to present.  I thought I was maturing or something.  Just wanted to stay home and was always tired.  Erections where ½ way there.  No real desire to do much.  I even left the gym for long periods.  I focused on other things like Real Estate investment.  The past 6 years I knew something was wrong.  I can feel it.  When you are in the working out thing for 20 years with hard dieting you listen to your body.  And my body was screaming for help.
I started to see doctors about 10 months ago in March 2010 after food poisoning from bad Sushi.  I went to the hospital and $3,000 later I had massive tests done.  Thankfully I had insurance and the bill was around $300.  I took my stack of papers from the hospital and seeked doctors.  One doctor after another I asked questions.  Do I have diabetes doctor?  The answer is no.  Now have a nice day and thanx for the $50 co-pay we will charge your insurance the other $200.  Next doctor appointment.  Do I have a blood disease? The answer is no.  Now have a nice day and thanx for the $50 co-pay we will charge your insurance the other $200.  I continued the appointments.  Do I have a STD?  No.  Do I have cancer?  No.  All no no no.  Well then what the hell is wrong with me??  Something is wrong I can feel it.  I feel like someone ran over me with their car.  Daily.  I can’t walk.  I can’t get out from my car without looking like an 80 year old man.  I have no desire to do anything.  I am severely tired.  Worn out.  My body feels bruised 24-7.  OK.  I took matter into my own hands now.  Started to type in my conditions into the computer.  Low-testosterone started to pop-up.  Took the test came back 345.  The doctor padded me on the shoulder and said,” Yer fine and welcome to old age.”  Next took another test with an endocrinologist.  This doctor said the same.  Then I found what I was looking for.  7 years of being sickly.  10 months of near death.  I clicked on blogs like this.  All my questions where answered.  People like us frustrated, yelling, uncertain, confused and royally pissed off.  And lots of doctors will not treat Low-T because they are stuck in the dark ages.  Only we know how we feel, and many doctors are just running scared after being brainwashed in college that testosterone's only use is usually a form of abuse that will land them in malpractice.  I won’t give up and have an appointment with a LOW-T guy who might be the right doctor for me.  I will keep everyone posted.
Here are some good advice for testosterone gels I got from a person I met in in LOW-T BLOGS.

I guess I'll start by saying that although the free (i.e. non-bound) testosterone test yields the most significant metric with respect to your testosterone levels, your total testosterone level of 325 ng/dl is a fairly good indication that your free testosterone is probably very low for a man your age.  So if you ask me, you absolutely should start replacement therapy immediately to get those total numbers north of 700 and, more importantly, your free numbers in the top of the normal range too.  How to do it?

TestoCreme is the cheapest and overall best option I know for raising Testosterone levels and keeping them there the rest of your life.  It may be covered by Blue Cross/Blue Shield, but even if it isn't (mine isn't covered by my insurance), it probably isn't far from the co-pay for AndroGel.  That's mostly because AndroGel went through extensive testing to become a name brand product (to the tune of tens of millions), so they are trying to recoup that expense before it goes generic, which usually erodes sales.  TestoCreme, on the other hand, never went through this validation nor does it have to because the base components have already been approved by the FDA.  As such TestoCreme can be duplicated by other companies without legal penalty, although at the relative low price they are selling it at Central Avenue Pharmacy, there isn't much incentive.  Central Avenue Pharmacy sells a 60-gram bottle of TestoCreme, enough testosterone to raise your free and total levels to high normal for about 4 to 8 weeks, depending on your particular skin's absorption characteristic, body fat, estrogen conversion rate, etc. for around $70 delivered.  That means you end up paying between $35 to $70 per month to positively achieve a stable testosterone level where you want it in the worst case that your insurance doesn't cover it and a lot less if it does.  AndroGel, on the other hand, will run you a copay per month and cost the insurance company hundreds a month (such a waste).  I also tried, out of pure curiosity since my medical insurance covered it, AndroGel many years ago for a month and found it messy and annoying to apply.  It smells like alcohol--of course it should since alcohol is the gel solvent.  The smell didn't bother me too much (unlike Testim which smells like urine), but I'd rather apply something that almost has no smell except a very slight pleasant one like TestoCreme does.    To be honest, to me TestoCreme has a really fantastic odor like the best smelling stuff ever, but I think I like the smell more than average for some odd reason.  Also because AndroGel is a 1% (rather than 10%) preparation that doesn't absorbs at a rate comparable to Androgel, you need to apply a lot more Androgel (ten times as much), smearing it each day all over you in a couple square foot of skin.  I don't know about you, but I'm not into taking a alcohol gel bath each day.

If you go with TestoCreme, like any transdermal testosterone replacement medication, it'll take from a couple weeks to a few months to bring your T level where you want.  You might initially take more to accelerate the process, depending on the style of your doctor, but eventually you and your doc will get there; it's worth the wait.

[toplabels]

I Read a few of the posts and the problem i see is that the guy that had his testosterone in the 200 range was going to the wrong mechanic. It is clear that your doctor does not understand low testosterone and its effects on the male body. Visit with a clinic who specializes in HRT and then you can make your decision, I personally had my T at 350 and was suffering from chronic pain. only two months of HRT and my pains are gone. Sex drive well how can i put it excellent and my mood is great because before it was really bad.

[Ronin6]

Test Name                       Result   Units Reference Range
Testosterone                        252    ng/dL 250-1100
Testosterone Free                      40.8 Low pg/mL 46.0-224.0
Testosterone Free+ Weakly Bound  80.4 Low  ng/dL 110.0-575.0
Sex Hormone Binding Globulin      24    nmol/L 8-48
Albumin                                      4.3    gm/dL 3.6-5.1

Ok, above is the test results from my last blood draw. I am a 38 y/o male that is active (to a point). I have had a vasectamy, deployed 5 times in 5 years, being treated for PTSD, insomia, anger issues and cluster migraines. I see my doctor next week and I would like to walk in there and be able to speak smartly about this, but I am totally confused. I've visited a few websites and it just gets worse. Can someone please point me in the right direction.

Thanks

Ronin

[RANDO88]

The best site that I have found dealing with low testosterone is by Dr. E. Barry Gordon @ www.thehiddendisease.com. Well worth a look. Thank you Ronin for your service and best wishes!!

[Tom3260]

I'm 51, 186, 5'11" and here's what i take:

ovamid 25mg
HCG .15ml

results as of 4-26-11

testosterone level - 1186

BTW, GF is 29.

[Mykel352003]

I'm a 43 yr old male veteran and I have been experiencing severe fatigue from which I believe is from low levels of testosterone. I had a lab done about a year ago that showed it to be 241, I brought this to my doctor's attention recently as the symptoms have been getting extremely worse lately. She had a new lab drawn and they came back at 148.00! The VA however says that this is within their normal range which they use 132-813 as "normal." How can that possibly be when everything I read says if you are below 250 and showing the symptoms and even below 350, especially at my age, that you should seek treatment asap? I am mentally foggy, constantly tired and falling asleep sitting up in a well lighted office, and my sex drive is in the tank!  Any suggestions?

[Jarhed01]

I am 28 year old male.  My T count came back at 288.  My Doc says its in the normal range.  She said Normal is from 170 or so to 700.  Since I’m only 28 shouldn’t my count be higher?  I asked it the normal range was for my age group and she said no there are no age groups, everyone is in the same group.  I don’t think its fair that a 28 year old mail is in the same group as an 80 year old man.

Any suggestions?

[Real_Truth]

Look guys, let's be realistic.  How is it that most of us in our mid-40's have T levels around 300 +/-?  Could it be because that is normal?  I could argue such.  The functions of the human body are well known and us guys do peak hormonally in our early 20's because that is generally the age we would reproduce based on evolution.  Society has changed now that but evolution hasn't caught up yet.  If we decide we need to flood our system with testosterone again, that will bring its own set of issues.  It is psychologically and physically addictive.  Who wants to quit and feel castrated while waiting on the testes to start up again, and at a potentially lower rate of testosterone production than before?  Yes, there will be roid rage episodes, count on it, the emotions do not function normally when on test, period.  Yes, hair will thin and balls will shrink, among other less than desirable side effects.  The face will look different, and not better.  More muscle and less fat is perhaps the only silver lining I can come up with.  This synthetic drug wreaks havoc on our body and the placebo affect might be the only real reason we think we need it.  

I for one have given up alcohol and everything mind-altering, including caffeine.  I use my mind to control my diet and exercise.  I'm not against growth hormone on occasion.  I feel incredible and it shows in my actions.  I get involved in life and work hard, travel and I feel incredible.  I've been tempted to take this easy route of testosterone injections to get higher.  But, the same could be said for Xanax or Jack Daniels.  I know from past experience that the results will be the same, an addiction that takes over and destroys my life and I ain't having it.  Good luck, all.  I came to present a different opinion, hope it sinks in.  

[LordsKnight]

There is no way that in our 40's the 300 range is normal. The reason so many men are experiencing Low T is because of all the foods now using Soy beans, oil, etc... Soy has a a lot of Estrogen in it and too much estrogen for men decreases Testosterone as well as increases the risk of Testicular and breast cancer in men. Soy products are extremely difficult to avoid these days. If your doctor won't consider therapy it may be due to other factors in your case. Otherwise get a different doctor. Some doctors think they are God or in charge of your body and health. We are all different and respond differently. Try it for 6 months and see if it works for you. Be sure and follow up regularly with lab work. Get your Mojo back and feel great again!

[chuck1725]

In my early 20,s I lost my sex drive,no morning erections. My Dr, check
T. level. it was 444,,was taking shots, which helped,later started the blue  pill,Some improvements,But had very little desire, Tried the patches,some improvement, didnt like the side effects,last year I started the patches.
Current my level is over 900,now I still has no sex drive. Could it be low free T.level? Iam now 47 years old.

[PCharlie]

HI Chuck:

My name is Charlie> I have done hormone therapy for the past six years. I am a life coach by training and I would suggest that there are deeper emotional issues going on than a hormone issue. Your testosterone level is off the charts so I would not think this is the issue. My guess would be stress related or relational. That by the way, doesn't mean that this automatically means a divorce.

[tman509]

hey now, these people have every reason to be concerned. i am 34 had a t level of 284, i used to brag like you about 3 times a week, but it took 4-6 hours to get off cuz the erection would go soft alot. now im taking t shots, and feeling good, and its 2 or more times a day now that i take care of my wife. and it only takes 10-15 minutes instead of hours. maybe ur the one who needs a psychologist. ppp

[ggkr]

if you are anywhere near East TN, there is a excellent Dr who treats male hormone issues.  Dr. Tom Rogers Kingsport, TN  [phone] www.performancemedicine.net

[SEE1965]

I am looking for the same information as Ed1223, but for women.  Since the range for females is even smaller, my doctor and I disagree as to whether my results for testosterone levels is normal or too low.  I am not finding much online to help, other than fluff websites.  If you have found charts showing ranges for women by age, please post these links.

By the way guys, if it makes you feel any better, I am glad to see that it isn't just women who are gettng older who face this issue.  

[hankscott]

Two comments:  I continue to be amazed how doctors don't want to talk about or deal with male sexual issues. I told my new GP about a diagnosis by two earlier GPs of abnormally low testosterone and then discovered that the routine bloodwork he did didn't include a testosterone measure!

Second:  I strongly recommend Testopel.  Every four months a doctor injects eight small testosterone pellets under my skin (on my butt).  Advantage: I have a good and stable T level, not the weekly or biweekly rise and fall that comes with shots.  And I don't have to use that stinky and sticky cream.  Google Testopel and email the manufacturer for a list of doctors trained to do these injections. My insurance (Aetna) covers it.

[mike5698]

Hello...

I am a 31 yo male and am very athletic...and appear healthy as well.   I have never really had a super high sex drive... but I have noticed a major drop in the last few years.   Its hard for me to keep an erection without the help of cialis or viagra and I basically have no sex drive.   I only do it... because I feel like I "should."  Pathetic huh?

Well I had my levels tested....

In my last test (no pun intended)
Free test: 66.5  (range 46-224)
Total test: 520 (range 250-1100ng/dl)
Bioavailable test 133  (range 110-575)

Not terribly low... but I have been experiencing all the common symptoms...  low energy, non existent libido (as mentioned above).  

My doc says, "all your levels are normal," which is extremely frustrating.   I really appreciate if you can answer any of these questions....

- do you consider my values low? and if so... are my symptoms consistent with these levels?

- is it advisable to go on HRT at a fairly young age of 32?

- will this adversely effect my ability to have kids within the next few years?  (ive read testosterone supplementing drops the sperm count drastically)

- If this is true...  how long are sperm good at a sperm freezing place?    or if I went off the testosterone would my sperm count come back?

I REALLY REALLY appreciate any answers... my doctor has been very unhelpful and I am considering trying someone new.  

Thanks again, in advance.

Mike

[mike5698]

Hello...

I am a 31 yo male and am very athletic...and appear healthy as well.   I have never really had a super high sex drive... but I have noticed a major drop in the last few years.   Its hard for me to keep an erection without the help of cialis or viagra and I basically have no sex drive.   I only do it... because I feel like I "should."  Pathetic huh?

Well I had my levels tested....

In my last test (no pun intended)
Free test: 66.5  (range 46-224)
Total test: 520 (range 250-1100ng/dl)
Bioavailable test 133  (range 110-575)

Not terribly low... but I have been experiencing all the common symptoms...  low energy, non existent libido (as mentioned above).  

My doc says, "all your levels are normal," which is extremely frustrating.   I really appreciate if you can answer any of these questions....

- do you consider my values low? and if so... are my symptoms consistent with these levels?

- is it advisable to go on HRT at a fairly young age of 32?

- will this adversely effect my ability to have kids within the next few years?  (ive read testosterone supplementing drops the sperm count drastically)

- If this is true...  how long are sperm good at a sperm freezing place?    or if I went off the testosterone would my sperm count come back?

I REALLY REALLY appreciate any answers... my doctor has been very unhelpful and I am considering trying someone new.  

Thanks again, in advance.

Mike

[mike5698]

(adding to the above message)

Does anyone have any doctor recomendations in the Orange county/ LA california area?

Thank you sincerely.

[sebuc3]

I went to see my ANP at the V.A.I complained of ,low energy, sweats, low sex drive, dizziness,and Depression .I told him i thought my testosterone levels were off. My test came back with t levels of 100 ,so he has prescribed Injectibles,and  I am now waiting for delivery of the testosterone and syringes. hope like hell it works i have been miserable. I'm a  50 year old white male,and felt like my life was over.

[Brewmaster66]

257 is normal if you are 100 years old.

Here is info on levels by age, maybe this is help explain it.

http://www.mens-hormonal-health.com/normal-testosterone-levels.html

[mr37212]

I am 46 and I had low energy and libido issues from about age 38. I noticed the drop off after using hgh and exercise for weight loss of about 30 lbs. This was at the age of 38. I weighed 190 and I am 6 foot tall. I finally got tested for low T at 45 and it was a low 87 at this time I was 290 6 foot. I began taking injections of Testosterone and it helped a bunch. At about 60 days my body began to produce the enzyme Aromatase my body was converting the my testosterone into estrogen.(which sux mentally and physically) The solution that I found and has worked for me is the trifecta solution. every 5 days I take .25 mg 1.5 Arimidex, 500IU hgh injection, and 1/3 ml of testosterone injection, here is the link to where I found this solution. I'm not a doc or med guy check this out if it helps you great. http://www.********************.com/testosterone-therapy.html
My question is how long should I keep this up? I hear about cycling. but I am confused if that's for heavy use body builders or do I need to cycle off as well, and if so what durations?

[garymichael]

Are you not just lucky.

[garymichael]

Are you not just lucky.

[Sin_City]

Look on the internet and find a mens clinic as I did.  They will run lab work and if your levels are low they will treat you.  I go in once a week for my shot and it is starting to make a difference.  Don't expect things to change overnight but they will.  My treatment is covered by my insurance with applicable copays.

[SEOINAGE]

I'm 30 years old and feel like I have been falling apart for the last three years, and my sex drive has gone to nothing.  Test levels were at 418 on my blood test.  Of course doctor says this is normal, I am sick of how I feel and all the problems I have been having.  I have tried contacting endocrinologists, but at the same time i am not sure if HRT is the right thing for me.  I want to do something about it though, I have things that have crept up I have done physical therapy for to bring back to useable, but then problems now with my hip that really are troubling me. I am an active person, and am fairly strong, but am constantly pushing through pain.  I lack desire to do a lot of things I used to, and don't get the joy out of life I used to.  I used to be the one that would always want to skii and wake board, and now I am perfectly fine just sitting on the boat, or sitting at home. I just don't know what to do, I've been losing weight hoping that would make my body feel better, but I felt better being heavier actually.

[oona01]

I was thrilled to hear about this from a women's point of view. My husband and I aren't exactly sure when his started to drop but we know it has for a long time, possibly 10 to 15 years. It was ruining our marriage. I thought he was depressed and found me unattractive which really effected me and my quality of life as well as his. I am a nurse and came across a patient who was talking to me about his low T. Everyting this man was telling me was spot on and also the feelings his wife was having. They told me to ask our Dr "specifically" for the test and we found my husbands level to be 97 ( he just turned 50). 3 weeks later when other testing was completed and there was a replacement plan in place he was an 88!!!!!!! I've known for years that there was a problem and my family kept telling me he was just a lazy jerk and I should leave him. We did separate a couple of times but always got back together because we love each other. I just couldn't figure out why all the antidepressants etc....weren't helping AND NOW WE KNOW! Thank God! This is such a simple blood test and has saved my marriage and returned parts of my husband to me after only one week of the 5mg patches. We are so blessed. Thank you for this forum, it has been very helpful.

[CubanH2O]

I am in denial to think that something is wrong with me, I was very sexually active, but day by day I am loosing that desires as well as energy. Im 45 yrs males, very active live, cycling more than 100 miles on my weekends, working out couple days at the gym. But Iam not having the morning wood I used to have anymore, or any sexual desire at all. Is there anywhere where can I get help to fix this?. I am very much in love but without sex that is not working too good. I need help please

[shelly1209]

ok very frustrated........have noticed a marked change in my husband for over the last year or so.....he has had kidney stones; and suffering now from tendonitis of the elbow for which he had surgery when he was a teenager, but it has flared up again and they will not operate until he has tried 3 months of pain killers, and then if that doesn't work 3 month of therapy, and only then will they operate.  He has been on motrin, oxycodone, vicodin, for years for pain in his knees, and back, and now on some nerve blocking med for the last month on top of everything else for the elbow.  The pain keeps him up at night, so he lacks a good deep sleep. Occassionally, he takes zolpidem to help him sleep. Over the last year, I have noticed a huge decrease in sex drive, ability to get or hold an erection, extremely irritable, very fatigued, no energy, loss of muscle mass, weight gain around midsection....it has taken a terrible affect on our relationship because I feel unattractive, unloved, and he is argumentative about everything and anything. All we do is fight. I know there is such a thing as "man"opause....so I had him get a blood test at his dr.  (internal med) and it came back at 300.   He is 49 yrs old.  I asked my dr. about it, and my dr. feels that is on the low side for his age, and he is displaying every single symptom of low testosterone.  His dr. said he feels its within normal range and won't treat him with testosterone gel because it can cause testicle cancer.  I am at my wits end.  Things cannot go on like this, and I just want him to get treated so he can feel better, and we can have a quality of life back again.   I have done a lot of research on line, and know that long term use of pain meds can cause t levels to be lowered.  I also read it can cause osteopathic problems, which could that be why the elbow pain has flared up again recently?   HELP!  

[fehsmiley]

Well men my t count this week was 80! I'm 57 weigh 213 lbs increased from 168 10 years ago. I gained the bulk of it the last 2 years. I feel 1/2 dead at this point. I've been on 160 ml oxycontin per day for the last 10 yrs. Due to severe pain from final cord surgery. Uhgh. :) about to start treatment but strongly consider. Natural route . May not be possible at this point I'm soooo damned tired!!!!

[WMH63368]

My T levels were about the same as your husband's.  I'm 51 years old and have been on HRT for about a year.  I started with the Androgel and the results weren't very good.  I had my Doctor recommend and Endocrinologist and they also at first suggested Androgel unti they looked at my blood work and saw that the levels had not improved.  I went on intramuscular injections of Testosteron Cypronate (200mg ml)  At first, I was on 1 ml every 3 weeks then progressed to 1 ml  every week.  Levels are now mid 700's and life is awesome.  Sex drive is through the roof, attitude is a 180 degree opposite of where it was.  I know it's hard to believe something as easy as an injection can make that dramatic of a change but it's true.  Oh, also I feel like I'm about 35 again.  Muscle mass is back and increasing. Another odd result has been a reduction in my back pain and I've been on Oxycodone and Oxycontin for years.  My Doctor also informed me that Testosterone will dramatically strengthen bones.  

[Hs1234]

Hi Ed,
I just saw this old discussion. Ask your doctor to check your prolactin. In cas of pituitary tumor (my case) , ask him if you could be treated with cabergoline ( my case again). It worked really well for me. All the best.

[Aliflint77]

I have just got my blood test result back and the dock said they are 14 and and should be between 14 and 30 ?

[Christopher1955]

I have an interesting story. I was 43 and listless, and multiple tests revealed that my testosterone had fallen to around 237 (normal 650). Docs put me on the patch, which constantly fell off because of perspiration, then Andogel. I was divorced and single at the time, and rather depressed. Anyway, I eventually met a sexy gal, and we became lovers. I told her about my problem, and that I had to shower off all the androgel before having sex with her, because product warnings said that if it gets transferred to a gal she could grow a moustache, amongst other hormonal changes. Because it was such a hassle and a menace to her health, I stopped using the Androgel completely. And amazingly, my sexual performance didn't degrade. Many months after stopping any testosterone treatment, I had my blood tested, and my testosterone level was up to the 700 range. The doc had a theory. Since I didn't have a desirable woman in my life that I wanted and could have sex with, my body just didn't manufacture testosterone. When I had a sexy gal in my life, my body made plenty. I'm betting that some of these mid-life guys with low testosterone would see their levels skyrocket if they came home every night to a naked Keira Knightly (or Rosie O'Donnel, or whomever is your type). All I am saying is that the body is a complex machine, and mind and body work together. Hormone replacement is one approach. A more natural approach that might also work for you is mental stimulation - finding a new and exciting sex partner, or a variety of sex partners, or maybe even better porn. But the best medicine I ever got was a hot babe that turned me on.  -Chris Durant

[jacksaid]

Hey Guys, there are more than one way that the little boy walked to school..
Just because you are unable to go to high gear, doesn't mean you can't please
your lady..Think about it...The "G" spot is not inside...Let your finger's
do the walking and lot's of other ideas and method's I use , but cannot
go into here..So, just because you don't have the normal equipment ,presently,
does not mean you shouldn't suggest other method's to keep your lady happy..

[LSZ1968]

What was the concentration of your dose?  Was it Cip 200/cc Per week and eventually 1.5 cc?  Which would be 300/wk?

How many weeks did it take for you to be "full flight"

Thanks

[Sneekee]

I am 39, very fit, and have always been extremly active, until 3 years ago.I was an avid outdoorsman who loved hiking fishing and hunting. One day I got tired, real tired.I got so tired it was all i could do to make it through the work day. And the thought of having to work overtime was like beeing hit in the gut. When i got home i sat on the couch and did nothing till it was time to go to sleep. It got so bad i was thinking i had no  choice but to quit my job.My co-workers who did the same job as me were all 10 to 20 years older than me and had no problem keeping up. After several doctors told me i was depressed, (AND I KNEW I WASNT) I finaly had a doctor check my T levels.They came back low, so he started me on T shots as well as B12 shots. 2 days after the first treatment it was like a light came on, i came alive again.After 2 years of setting on the couch, wanting to live life but not having the energy to do so, I am back at it again. I feel like my old self again, and wheni get tired now it is a "normal tired" feeling. Now I ask to work overtime, all i can get. If your tired of beeing tired and you know you are not depressed, check your T level, if its low keep going to docs untill one gets you on the T replacement, it changed my life.

[Gary3243]

Please check out a vericolces

[Gary3243]

Low testosterone has been linked to varicoceles.  20% of all men have these.  Getting these corrected will likley increase your test level.  Its outpatient surgery that takes less than an hour.  Recent study shows that after undergoing microsurgical varicocelectomy, 70% of men saw a significiant increase in test levels, with a mean increase of 178ng.  Im having mine corrected next week. As a result, your body itself is increasing test production.  Im in the low 300 range.  Im hoping to get my t level up to the 500 range via results of this procedure.  Google low testosterone and varicoceles.

[ncowife]

Hello ALL!!

After reading a lot of good advise and some so so advise I thought I would share my story.. I am the wife of a 42yr old man who is suffering like the rest of you, for years now he has been so tired its not even funny, works out all the time with little to no change in body, low sex drive but has never had any sort of erectile dysfunction, and depression. After doing research on his own he came across Low T levels and made an appointment to have them checked, had his levels checked a year ago was told he was borderline (whatever that is) mind you they tested him in the afternoon (it should be done fist thing in the morning) nothing was done he went on his way. 3 weeks ago after another year of being frustrated and beyond tired he made another appointment this time he had it done at 7:30am, results were very low I believe 235. He sees an Endocrinologist very very important  to see and Endo in regards to hormone levels THIS is their field of study. With that being said he recommended he have an MRI to check his pituitary gland seeing as this is where hormones in males and females come from, the MRI was to check and make sure there was no abnormalities going on. His results came back clean thank God. The Doctor (Endo) is starting him on Clomid NOT shots or creams Clomid will make the pituitary gland work the way it should and bump his T levels naturally he will have his levels checked in 4 months, they would like him in the 400 range and when they reach a healthy level he will come off because his pituitary gland will be producing Testosterone again the way it should.. Sorry this is so long my point is IF you men are taking shots, patches and or creams your body is NOT going to produce it naturally they bi-pass  your pituitary gland an shut it down there is now no need for it to work anymore to produce T  because your body is getting it from an outside source. He hasn't starting taking it yet waiting for it to arrive via mail seeing as they do NOT carry it in most if any Pharmacies... Point  Men go see an Endo and make sure you have the test done 1st thing in the morning..     Good Luck and I wish you ALL Health and Happiness there is a light at the end of the tunnel just be proactive and do your research..  Start my looking up Low Testosterone and Endocrinology and or Low Testosterone and Pituitary Gland...  

[Gary3243]

Thanks for your input.  It depends on whether the pit/hypo are working well.  The problem may be with the teste.  My LH and FSH were normal/high, so my pit and hypo are working fine, but one of my testes has a varicocele that impedes t production.  Im having it reparied tomorrow, so I have a problem with a teste.  If the surgery doesnt work then I'll need TRT.

[shilly1986]

I am 25years leady, i have hairing problem, i have lots of hair in lower face and breast. I am already consult a Endocrinologist under super vision I am test Testosterone level which is 20.41ng/dl and the reference range is fir adult female is 6-82, but I am over wait, my height is 5.3 and weight is 73, my doctor always told me to reduce my wait. Please suggest, this level of testosterone is ok for me, and what else you suggest me.

Thank You

[Gary3243]

Had my varicocele repaired on Friday.  Little pain.  We'll see if it effects my t levels.  Have a follow p with doc on 2/14.

[MikeKeat]

Hi there, thanks for your post. I am considering TRT as my count has dropped below the 300 mark. My biggest fear is testicle shrinkage which may make me sound vain but it's not like I started with big boys to begin with. May I ask if you have seen any changes in this area?