Tired all the time? Your testosterone might be the reason.
Testosterone is the primary male sex hormone responsible for muscle mass, bone density, sex drive, and mood regulation. Low testosterone affects 40% of men over 45, causing fatigue, reduced libido, and muscle loss. A total testosterone blood test is the most important test for diagnosing testosterone deficiency.
Why Test Your Testosterone
- Energy, libido, muscle mass, mood, bone health
- Low T symptoms overlap with depression, thyroid issues, and sleep disorders
- Only a blood test can confirm whether testosterone is the cause
- Track your levels over time to spot trends before they become problems
Symptoms of Low Testosterone
- Persistent fatigue and low energy
- Reduced sex drive and erectile difficulty
- Unexplained weight gain, especially belly fat
- Brain fog, poor concentration, and irritability
- Depressed mood and loss of motivation
- Loss of muscle mass and decreased strength
What's a Normal Testosterone Level?
Normal total testosterone ranges from 300 to 1,000 ng/dL, but optimal levels vary by age.
| Age | Optimal Range (ng/dL) |
|---|---|
| 20s | 600–900 |
| 30s | 500–800 |
| 40s | 450–700 |
| 50s | 400–650 |
| 60s+ | 350–600 |
Understanding Your Results
Total testosterone measures all testosterone in your blood. Free testosterone measures only the unbound portion your body can use. That's roughly 2–3% of your total. Both matter for an accurate assessment.
Your results should always be read alongside free testosterone and SHBG, or sex hormone-binding globulin, for a clear reading.
How to Improve Testosterone
- Lift heavy weights and prioritize compound exercises
- Sleep 7–9 hours per night in a cool, dark room
- Reduce body fat, especially visceral belly fat
- Manage chronic stress and lower cortisol
- Get regular sunlight exposure
- Eat adequate protein, zinc, and vitamin D
These changes can increase testosterone 20–50% in men with low levels.
Next Steps After Testing
If your testosterone stays below 300 ng/dL and lifestyle changes have not helped, talk to a physician who specializes in hormone therapy. They can help you decide if testosterone replacement therapy is right for you.
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Testosterone Testing FAQ
Low testosterone results from aging, obesity, chronic stress, poor sleep, certain medications, and medical conditions. Levels drop 1-2% per year after age 30. Lifestyle factors cause most cases in men under 50.
Normal total testosterone ranges from 300 to 1,000 ng/dL. Optimal ranges vary by age, from 600-900 in your 20s down to 350-600 in your 60s. Individual symptoms matter more than numbers alone.
A total testosterone blood test is the most important initial test for diagnosing testosterone deficiency. Free testosterone and SHBG provide additional context. All are included in the Rite Aid panel.
Fasting is not required specifically for testosterone, but the full panel includes glucose and lipids that do require fasting. Plan for 8-12 hours without food.
Test testosterone in the morning, ideally before 10am. Levels peak upon waking and decline throughout the day by up to 30%. Morning testing gives the most accurate reading.
Total testosterone measures all testosterone in your blood. Free testosterone measures only the unbound portion your body can use, roughly 2-3% of total. Both matter for an accurate assessment.
Yes. Low testosterone promotes fat storage, especially belly fat, and reduces muscle mass. This creates a cycle where excess fat further lowers testosterone by converting it to estrogen.
Lift heavy weights, prioritize 7-9 hours of sleep, reduce body fat, manage stress, get sunlight, and eat adequate protein, zinc, and vitamin D. These changes can increase testosterone 20-50% in men with low levels.
Consider TRT when total testosterone stays below 300 ng/dL and lifestyle changes have not helped. It may be right for you if symptoms are affecting your quality of life. Work with a physician who specializes in hormone therapy.
No prescription needed with Rite Aid. Our partner physicians authorize the test. You receive your results with physician interpretation, which you can share with your doctor if TRT is appropriate.
Still got questions?
Our team is here to help. Call us at 863-270-9911 or email [email protected]