Page 3 - TRT Blood Tests

Welcome to DiscountedLabs.com, where you can buy discount lab tests in most cities in the U.S. (except in the states of NY, NJ, AZ, MS, and RI). No doctor visit is required. We invite you to compare our prices with those of other lab companies so that you can see how we are different from the rest. At DiscountedLabs.com we believe that knowledge is power. Educated patients can take charge of their health and discuss health issues more effectively with their physicians. Many people find our prices lower than their insurance co-pays for lab tests. Not having a copay to see a doctor provides additional benefits for the educated patient. These educated patients have also realized that their insurance companies are unwilling to pay for specific tests and/or the required frequency for proper monitoring. That is where DiscountedLabs comes in to provide affordable online blood test access. The order process for discounted labs is simple: use a credit card. Just choose your blood test and order it. You will receive a confirmation email with a lab form that you can take to your closest lab location. This location can be searched in the page tab entitled “Find a location”. Please bring the confirmation receipt email and ID to the local lab of your choice in our network. You will receive your lab results a few days later via email.     HOW DOES DISCOUNTEDLABS.COM WORK?   1-     Go to the "Find a Location" page to make sure we serve your state and that there is a location near you.  2-     Go to "Choose a Test" and add your selection (s) in the shopping cart. You can also save money by buying bundled lab test panels. 3-     If you have a discount coupon code, add it to your cart. 4-     If you don't have an account with us, you will be asked to create one by adding your name, address, gender, and date of birth. 5-     Place your order by using a credit card. 6-     You will receive three emails: an order confirmation & detailed instructions within minutes about how to download your lab requisition form to take to the lab near you. 7-     Print the lab requisition form (PDF file).  8-     Take that form to the lab near you with a picture ID. You can walk in, but we suggest that you make an appointment to cut down on potential waiting (instructions on how to do so are in our "Find a Location" page). Get your blood drawn at the lab.   9-    Your results will be ready within 3-7 business days, depending on the test. Sensitive hormone tests done by liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry LC/MS take 5-7 business days). You will receive them by email as soon as they come in. If you have any questions, please visit our FAQ page or email us at [email protected] Why DiscountedLabs.com? We Have the Best Discount Lab Tests Available in the U.S. No Doctor Visit. Prescription Provided. Most U.S. States. No Hidden Costs. FDA Approved. HIPAA Compliant. We Protect Your Privacy. Order Good for 9 Months. No Appointment Needed. Walk-ins Welcomed. Results Delivered By Email. Hormone Testing Via Sensitive Assays. Discount Coupons Emailed Periodically. Educational Videos Thank you, and tell your friends about us!   At DiscountedLabs.com we pride ourselves on offering the most affordable blood test prices and educational information to help you take charge of your health. You can purchase blood tests and panels online from most cities in the U.S. using your credit card. Our in-house physician provides the required prescription, so no doctor’s visit is needed. Depending on the blood test, you can download your results from your account in 2-7 business days (depending on the blood test) after your blood draw at your local lab. We work with over 1,800 lab locations. No appointment is needed at the lab. Walk-ins welcomed. We provide educational information in our blog and newsletters so that you can make sense of your results. Your order is good for six months, so you can have time to plan. Your order is secure and private. 100% satisfaction guarantee. Patients like you founded us with the intention of facilitating easy access to health self-monitoring.    

A brief introduction to testosterone and its properties and benefits Testosterone is the most important male sex hormone responsible for correctly functioning multiple body processes. This anabolic steroid is directly involved in developing reproductive organs in men and developing secondary male sexual characteristics. Testosterone plays a vital role in the lives of women, too. Inadequate testosterone amounts can lead to numerous health issues, such as low bone density (and susceptibility to fractures), poor sex drive, and lack of concentration. Table of Contents A brief introduction to testosterone and its properties/benefits What is hypogonadism?   Serum testosterone tests (assays) Types of testosterone fractions in the blood Types of testosterone tests How is testosterone level measured? Dr. Wang's analysis of testosterone assays 4 Types Of Testosterone Tests You Can Buy Today Why should you test your testosterone levels? How to get a testosterone test? Normal testosterone levels in men are between 300 ng/dL and 1,000 ng/dL. Normal testosterone levels in women are usually between 15 ng/dL and 70 ng/dL. This number varies depending on various factors such as the moment of the day, mood, diet, exercise level, and more. However, certain men might have low testosterone levels (under 350 ng/dL) and experience symptoms such as fatigue, lack of sexual desire, and developing male breasts (gynecomastia). Testosterone replacement therapy might be helpful for men who have low testosterone blood levels. This treatment will help raise testosterone levels to average values. Inadequate testosterone amounts can also impair muscle development and slow one’s progress in the gym. Men usually have 40 times more testosterone than women, and keeping T levels in the normal range is essential to ensuring proper muscle growth. Declining testosterone levels in men over 45 are typical and often cause erectile dysfunction (ED). Androgen deficiency, or hypogonadism, affects roughly 40% of men aged 45 or older.  Two-thirds of these men present with symptoms. While some symptoms, like ED, indicate a deficiency, additional symptoms can be similar to those of other diseases, such as cardiovascular disease.  What is hypogonadism?   Male hypogonadism is a clinical syndrome that results from the failure of the testes to produce physiological levels of testosterone (androgen deficiency) and an average number of spermatozoa due to disruption of one or more groups of the hypothalamic-pituitary-testicular (HPT) axis. There are three types of hypogonadism: Primary-testicular dysfunction leads to low testosterone levels and high levels of luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH). Secondary dysfunction of the HPT axis results in low testosterone, LH, and FSH levels. Who should be tested for low testosterone? Mixed—manifests a mixture of primary and secondary hypogonadism and can be observed in older men. Very small or shrinking testes. Inability to father children; low or zero sperm count. The more symptoms a patient has, the more likely he is to have low testosterone.    The production of androgens in excess is a defining feature of hyperandrogenism (high testosterone in women), and testosterone levels have an impact on it. The most common clinical manifestation of hyperandrogenism is hirsutism, or excessive hair growth in androgen-dependent body areas. Other clinical manifestations of hyperandrogenism include acne vulgaris, weight gain, menstrual irregularities, and, in some women, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and acanthosis nigricans. Measuring the testosterone level isn’t an easy task. Tests for free, bioavailable, and total testosterone are essential to help diagnose hypogonadism and rule out other conditions. For those who may be candidates for testosterone therapy and those already on treatment, testing can also help assess and monitor testosterone levels.   This hormone can be bound to specific proteins in the body, and measuring it becomes problematic when it’s outside the normal ranges. For example, it’s relatively easy to determine the exact testosterone level of a healthy man, but not that easy if he’s hypogonadal (has low T) and his testosterone levels are dangerously low. More sensitive tests are required to measure low T concentrations in men, women, and prepuberty children. Scientists and medical professionals have created some reliable testosterone-measuring methods. These are called testosterone assays.   Serum testosterone tests (assays) According to the dictionary, the word “assay” refers to testing a particular material, ore, or substance to find its composting ingredients. Serum testosterone assay refers to accurately measuring the testosterone levels in the body of a male or female. Accuracy is essential because it directly impacts the diagnosing a particular disease or health complication. Endocrinology is the discipline responsible for measuring hormone levels in the body. It encompasses a wide variety of assays that help the clinician confirm a diagnosis for a patient. For example, testosterone assays are used to determine whether a male patient has hypogonadism. Hypogonadism consists of reduced gonad activity. Men diagnosed with hypogonadism usually have low testosterone levels and experience different symptoms, such as low sex drive and gynecomastia (man boobs). Testosterone assays are also used to determine if confident boys have delayed puberty onset and to diagnose androgen deficiency. When circulating testosterone levels are very low, the sensitivity of some assays is diminished. That’s why picking the suitable testosterone assay is necessary to determine circulating T levels accurately.   Types of testosterone fractions in the blood As shown in the figure below, about 2 percent of the testosterone in the body is active.  This “free testosterone” is not attached to binding proteins that would prevent it from interacting with its receptor. About 40 percent of the body’s testosterone is attached to albumin. This is a protein that can release the hormone as the need for it arises in the body. Free testosterone and testosterone bound to albumin are “bioavailable testosterone.” In a healthy young male, about 60 percent of his testosterone is attached to sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG). Hormones bound to SHBG can’t be used by the body and lose their anabolic effect.  As males grow older or if an illness is present, SHBG sweeps up more and more testosterone, lowering free testosterone and its benefits. Total testosterone is the sum of bioavailable testosterone and testosterone bound to SHBG. Measuring the total testosterone in the blood may not provide the whole picture and let you know how much “active” or usable testosterone you have. Types of testosterone tests Measuring the testosterone levels in one’s body is not that easy. One way to do that is by using Isotope dilution mass spectrometry. This assay measures total testosterone levels. Laboratories also use direct chemiluminescent immunoassays. However, these assays are less accurate when testosterone concentrations are too low. Liquid chromatography-tandem MS (mass spectrometry) and gas chromatography-MS are also used for more accurate results, mainly when testosterone levels are at the low and high extremes. Measuring free testosterone is done after it has been separated from the protein-bound forms. This can be done using equilibrium dialysis or ultracentrifugation. Equilibrium dialysis is the most common method, and it involves introducing testosterone isotopes into a patient sample. The free testosterone concentration is estimated based on the distribution of isotopes in the dialysis membrane. The bioavailable testosterone can be measured using ammonium sulfate, which influences the testosterone bound to SHBG. Assessing testosterone levels began approximately 30 years ago. Tests were done on small blood samples, but their accuracy could have improved. Current testosterone assays are more sensitive, require a smaller serum sample, and are more affordable. They can be done using nonradioactive methods in reference labs.   How is testosterone level measured? Up to 98% of the testosterone found in the bloodstream is bound to proteins such as albumin and SHBG. Just about 2% is free. Albumin-bound testosterone and free testosterone are known as bioavailable, and tissues can easily use them for androgen action. On the other hand, total testosterone can be measured using nonradioactive immunoassay and chemiluminescent detection. These methods offer accurate results if the male patient has testosterone levels in the normal range, such as 300-1000 ng/dL. However, these assays recorded low testosterone limits of approximately 132 ng/dL, which is not customary in healthy men. Clinicians have wondered why this happens and how they can improve the accuracy of testosterone assays when T concentrations are deficient. Regarding total testosterone assays, the gold standard is a steroid-free serum interacting with gravimetrically-determined amounts of testosterone. Independent measuring methods, such as liquid or gas chromatography with mass spectrometry, are also used. Susceptible tests are necessary for women to determine total and free testosterone levels because women have much lower amounts of testosterone in the bloodstream.   Dr. Wang's analysis of testosterone assays In a paper published in 2004, Dr. Wang and her colleagues compared multiple testosterone immunoassays (both manual and automated ones) with chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. The results were very accurate for the latter option, and the test was performed on serum samples from patients with different testosterone levels (ranging from under 150 ng/dL to 1,500 ng/dL). This means that most of the automated and manual assays were accurate compared to LC-MSMS, but some tests provided inaccurate results. The authors concluded that most manual and automatic testosterone immunoassays are ideal for differentiating eugonadal men from hypogonadal men. Still, they weren't accurate for women or children who haven't reached puberty yet. It’s essential to notice that these automated and manual testosterone immunoassays are compared with gold standards of adult male reference ranges. These ranges are set by individual laboratories and are usually monitored by the College of American Pathologists. That’s why you’ll find several testosterone tests on the market. Getting the right one is essential to obtain the most accurate results.   4 Types Of Testosterone Tests You Can Buy Today There are four different testosterone assays you can choose from to determine the amount of testosterone in your bloodstream accurately.   #1 - TESTOSTERONE Total and Free (Regular) This test is ideal for people with testosterone levels in the normal range. It measures total and free testosterone using direct analog/radioimmunoassay (for free T) and electrochemiluminescence immunoassay (for real T). On the other hand, if you know you have deficient testosterone levels (hypogonadism and testosterone levels below 150 ng/dL) or very high testosterone levels (you are a bodybuilder with T levels over 1500 ng/dL). You might want to use the LC/MS test because it’s more accurate. If your testosterone levels are very high, the test will show above 1500 ng/dL, not the exact number (such as 1,700 or 1,800).   #2 - Testosterone Free and Weakly Bound (Bioavailable Testosterone) Bioavailable testosterone can be used for steroid-receptor interaction. This test measures the amount of free and weakly bound testosterone in the bloodstream. The test doesn’t look at the testosterone bound to SHBG because this type is biologically inactive as it has a high binding affinity. On the other hand, weakly bound testosterone is usually derived from albumin and has a low affinity, which means that it can quickly dissociate and become available for interaction.   #3 - Testosterone, Free, Bioavailable, and Total, LC/MS (No Upper Limit) This test has no upper limit for either type of testosterone, such as free, total, or bioavailable. It uses more complex measuring assays such as liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry to determine testosterone levels accurately. However, this test is more suitable for bodybuilders, who are known to have very high testosterone levels. If you are not into bodybuilding or think you have below-normal testosterone levels, this test is not ideal for you. Other tests are more economical and can be used to determine your testosterone levels more accurately. If you are on testosterone replacement therapy, you might want to choose a test that has no upper limit on total testosterone and up to 50 ng/dL limit on free testosterone. An even more affordable test for people on testosterone replacement therapy has an upper limit of 1,500 ng/dL on total testosterone and a 50 ng/dL limit on free testosterone.   #4 - Testosterone, Total, LC/MS (No Upper Limit) This test measures only total testosterone by liquid chromatography or mass spectrometry. This test is ideal if your testosterone levels are deficient (both men and women). It is also suitable for high testosterone levels due to TRT or bodybuilding.  The test is the most accurate for testosterone concentrations under 150 ng/dL or above 1500 ng/dL for total testosterone.     Why should you test your testosterone levels? Measuring testosterone levels has become increasingly popular nowadays, thanks to direct-to-consumer labs that are affordable and easy to use. Males and females can buy one of the tests described above and determine the actual amounts of testosterone in their bloodstream. But why is this a good idea? First, if you have common testosterone deficiency symptoms such as fatigue or low sex drive, then measuring your testosterone levels is highly recommended. This will help you decide whether a lack of testosterone is the problem and whether you should try testosterone replacement therapy. Testosterone tests give you a broader insight into your hormonal health. Secondly, if you’re on testosterone replacement therapy already, the test results might provide good feedback on your progress. The clinicians who conduct these tests can give you valuable adviceLong-Term, such as how often to take testosterone gels or injections, whether you should reduce or increase the dosage, etc. If you’re a bodybuilder, keeping your testosterone levels in check also helps you monitor your progress. After all, testosterone is vital for muscle development, and if you have sufficient amounts of it, you’ll ensure muscle growth in the long run. Testosterone is essential for women too. This hormone is linked to mental alertness, good mood, and increased sex drive. Testosterone deficiency in women can also lead to low productivity at work and poor physical performance in the gym. Numerous advancements in the medical field coupled with improved testing devices make measuring testosterone levels a more affordable and accurate process.   How to get a testosterone test? Visit Discounted Labs, pick your favorite testosterone blood tests, and you’ll be able to get your results in a few business days. You can also order other blood tests to check your glucose levels, cholesterol, triglycerides, blood count, and more!  

Table of Contents 1. Biotin Biotin Uses and Supplementation How Biotin Affects Test Results What Are the Lab Tests Which Might Be Affected by Biotin Supplementation? What Supplements Have Biotin? 2. Age 3. Urinary Tract Infection 4. Prostate Procedures 5. Bicycle Riding 6. Obesity or High Body Weight 7. Medications 8. Biological Rhythms 9. Pregnancy 10. Food and Water 11. Caffeine, Alcohol, and Tobacco 12. Exercise Get Your Health Checked Up Today!   According to the World Health Organization, chronic diseases kill millions of people each year. Diabetes alone accounted for nearly 1.6 million deaths in 2015. Deaths caused by neurodegenerative diseases such as dementia doubled since 2000, and this number is expected to grow in the upcoming years. Although these are alarming facts, you might be happy to find out that numerous diseases and injuries, particularly chronic illnesses, can be prevented. To prevent a disease, you first need to be aware of it. To be aware of it, you need to do the right thing and get your health checked periodically. Discovering a predisposition to the disease earlier on gives you a massive advantage. You’ll be able to follow special treatments and minimize its risks or eliminate them. But how to get tested for various diseases which might affect you? Well, one of the simplest and most efficient ways is by using direct-to-consumer labs. These are usually discount labs you can purchase online at affordable prices and have your general health checked in a matter of days. No doctor visit is required so that you can quickly check your blood tests and monitor your health if you are an educated patient. However, you need to keep in mind that there are many factors which can influence the results of your lab tests. In other words, these factors can reduce the accuracy of your results, and that’s why you need to follow up the doctor’s advice before drawing blood for testing. This article is going to offer you a broader understanding when it comes to factors which influence lab tests. Keep reading to learn more about your health and how you can optimize the results of your lab work investigations. 1. Biotin Biotin is also known as vitamin B7 or vitamin H. This is a coenzyme the body needs for different metabolic processes. For example, the body needs biotin to optimize the metabolism of fat, carbohydrates, and protein. At the same time, biotin is also needed for the production of certain hormones. You can find biotin in fish, eggs, meat and certain vegetables such as spinach and broccoli. However, you can also take biotin supplements if needed. Adults need about 30 micrograms of biotin per day. Having more biotin in your system is not a problem, but it might affect some lab tests you make. For example, it can interfere with the results in certain blood tests, which might lead to an incorrect diagnosis of various health ailments. Biotin Uses and Supplementation As mentioned earlier, biotin is present in various pills and supplements you can buy online. For example, biotin can be used for treating alopecia, which is a health condition that makes people lose their hair. Doctors prescribe a dose of 5,000 to 10,000 micrograms of biotin per day to treat such health problems. At the same time, biotin can also be prescribed to pregnant women to support the healthy development of the baby. There are studies performed by researchers at various universities which prescribe large biotin doses to treat various problems with the nervous system. For example, multiple sclerosis might be treated with around 300,000 micrograms of biotin per day. Some people also use biotin to treat nail and skin problems since no studies are suggesting that a high amount of biotin can lead to health complications or injuries. How Biotin Affects Test Results Although supplementing with biotin can be beneficial for the body, this substance can greatly interfere with test results. The FDA (Food and Drug Administration) mentioned that biotin could alter blood test results and cause incorrect diagnosis for certain health conditions. It is recommended that you stop biotin supplementation at least 72 hours before offering a blood or saliva sample. What Are the Lab Tests Which Might Be Affected by Biotin Supplementation? There are many blood tests which can be affected by excessive biotin levels in your bloodstream. Some of these tests include vitamin D tests, any tests which measure the thyroid hormones in your body as well as tests which look at the FSH and LH hormones. Troponin is another type of test commonly used to diagnose heart attacks and other problems related to the cardiovascular system. If you’re planning to do such blood tests in the future, make sure you put your biotin supplementation on hold to ensure you get accurate results. What Supplements Have Biotin? On top of getting biotin from your foods, this substance can also be taken from various vitamins or supplements available in drug stores. For example, most multivitamin pills, B-complex vitamins, and coenzyme R have high amounts of biotin in them. Similarly, supplements with vitamin H and prenatal vitamins might also contain biotin. If you’re taking some supplements for hair growth and skin improvement, chances are that you’re also getting some biotin from those. Look on the labels of the supplements you take and look for “biotin,” “vitamin B7”, “vitamin H,” or “coenzyme R” to see if your pills contain biotin. If you have been instructed to stop biotin supplementation a few days before your blood test but forgot to do so, make sure that you inform your doctor about it. Your health practitioner needs to know this is the case your results show inaccurate or confusing results. 2. Age The advancing age of a patient also significantly influences the results of a particular blood test. In most cases, people of an elderly age tend to receive a higher percentage of incorrect/inaccurate results in comparison with younger adults. That’s because certain hormones and substances in the body are interpreted differently by lab tests as their levels increase or decrease with age. To give you an accurate example, a lipid panel of an older adult is much different than the one of a young person. The levels of triglycerides, good cholesterol, and bad cholesterol tend to increase with age up to about 55-60 years in males and around 65 years in females. Some studies show that triglyceride levels continue to increase in senior females. When this happens, doctors don't use reference values based on age anymore because they are inefficient in people of elderly age. Instead, they test the risk of cardiovascular disease and formulate treatment options based on that because this method is much more efficient. At the same time, there are blood tests which measure the prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels in men. PSA can increase in people of an elderly age as more PSA gets into the bloodstream and interferes with the test results. 3. Urinary Tract Infection Another factor that can influence the results of a PSA test consists of urinary tract infections. Various urinary tract bacteria can drastically alter the test results and lead to inaccurate diagnosis. That’s why it’s a good idea to tell your doctor if you ever had urinary tract infections so he can make a more accurate diagnosis when testing your PSA levels. 4. Prostate Procedures People who have had prostate procedures done are more likely to receive an incorrect diagnosis when doing prostate tests. For example, prostate surgery or biopsy, as well as prostatitis, can cause abnormal levels of PSA in the body. These factors can interfere with test results and cause false diagnosis. The doctor will eventually inform you when it's a good time to have a prostate test after you have had done a prostate surgery or biopsy. 5. Bicycle Riding Some studies have found that riding a bicycle can put a lot of pressure on the prostate, which can increase PSA levels. Therefore, prostate test results can come back with incorrect information, which leads to a false diagnosis. Another thing that can increase PSA levels is ejaculation since it makes more PSA leak into the bloodstream and affects the test results. 6. Obesity or High Body Weight Obesity is another health issue that affects the results of various blood tests. For example, obese men have greater BMI, and they usually have lower PSA concentrations. That's because obese men usually have a larger blood volume where PSA can get diluted. As a result, a prostate test can return false PSA results which affect the diagnosis set by the doctor. Similarly, obesity can also affect the results of rheumatoid arthritis tests. During those tests, various inflammatory markers such as C-reactive protein (CRP) and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) are checked to detect the level of inflammation in the body. Some studies show that obese people tend to have higher levels of ESR and CRP in their bodies, and this can interfere with the results, leading to false diagnosis. Buy a CRP Test Here Another blood test that can be affected by body weight is creatinine (used to assess kidney function). This test result may be artificially elevated in people with higher body weight or lean mass.  Cystatin C may be a better indicator of kidney function in those patients. 7. Medications Any medication that you might take before doing a blood test can significantly influence the results. Make sure that you inform your doctor about the pills you take, so he can take that into account when interpreting the results. If it is possible, you can discontinue certain medication (after you have received doctor’s approval) to make sure that your blood tests are more accurate. There are many types of medications which can influence the results of blood tests, including prostate test, inflammation tests, etc. For example, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen can alter the results of a blood test. Other important ones include blood pressure medication, which is known as thiazide diuretics. Some of the most common medication in this category include hydrochlorothiazide, chlorothiazide, and others. These medications tend to lower PSA levels and lead to a false diagnosis in prostate blood tests. 5-alpha reductase inhibitors also affect PSA levels. These inhibitors are represented by dutasteride and finasteride, which also decrease the PSA levels by almost 50 %. Metformin, a popular diabetes drug that is gaining anti-aging interest, can reduce B vitamin blood levels. This fact needs to be considered when testing for B-12 or other vitamins. 8. Biological Rhythms Various hormones and other substances in the body have significantly different levels at certain moments of the day. For example, you have different cortisol or testosterone levels in the morning compared with those in the evening. That’s why it’s important to do certain tests at specific moments of the day to ensure the accuracy of the test. Your doctor will usually inform you about that and tell you when it’s the best time for a blood test. Testosterone blood levels peak early in the morning, usually between 7 am, and 9 am. This time of the day is when a testosterone blood test should be done. Throughout the day, testosterone levels slowly decrease, and by evening, they are about two times lower than in the morning. The same story goes for cortisol levels as well. The levels of cortisol in your body peak early in the morning, and they gradually decline by 50%-100% until the end of the day. The time of the month or year is also very important when doing health checkups. For example, getting more vitamin D into your body relies on how much you are exposed to the sun. You can also get supplements with vitamin D if necessary, but sun exposure is one of the best and most efficient ways to get vitamin D. The levels of this vitamin in your bloodstream need to be interpreted based on the time of the year. For example, it’s normal to have the lowest levels of vitamin D during winter times since that’s when sun exposure is limited. 9. Pregnancy A pregnant woman can also have different test results in comparison with one who isn't pregnant. Pregnancy can change the amount of blood in the body, influence liver hormones, renal function, and other metabolic processes. Changes in hormone levels depend on the pregnancy stage, and they are usually compared against reference values. Physicians can give a pregnant woman more information on how to interpret these results and what they should do about them. 10. Food and Water The foods you eat and beverages you drink can influence the results of blood tests. For example, fasting, restricting calories, or being dehydrated can lead to incorrect test results and false diagnosis. To give you an example, a diet rich in protein can lead to increased uric acid levels, and this will be shown in various blood and urine tests. Similarly, a diet which is low in carbohydrates can increase the levels of ketones (ketogenic diet). If a person is a vegan or vegetarian, the levels of vitamin B12 in his/her bloodstream will be low. Some studies have shown that carbohydrates can temporarily decrease testosterone blood levels, so it is important to measure testosterone before breakfast. Fasting is needed before drawing blood for most blood testing. Patients are usually asked to fast for about 8-12 hours before doing a blood test. Fasting is important when checking lipid levels, blood sugar levels, some hormones, and substances in the body. Not fasting before a CMP test, for example, can lead to an incorrect diagnosis of diabetes type 2 since glucose can be elevated, which is a life-threatening condition if not treated properly. The Lipid Panel test (Triglycerides, LDL and HDL cholesterol) also requires fasting.  Failure to do so may cause the triglycerides value to be higher than normal. For more information about which tests require fasting, read: Fasting Blood Tests - Everything You Need to Know Dehydration also plays a vital role when it comes to blood testing. It can increase blood test values by decreasing the water content of the blood. It can be seen as an imbalance in sodium and potassium levels and lead to false diagnosis. For example, dehydration can affect albumin levels, blood lipids, creatinine (kidney), hematocrit, and some hormones in the body. 11. Caffeine, Alcohol, and Tobacco Drinking a lot of caffeine from coffee or green tea can also affect some blood test results. Although more studies are necessary when it comes to caffeine, there is a chance that this substance can alter blood glucose levels and temporarily increase them. Caffeine usually passes through the body in around 5 hours, so its effects are less significant in comparison with other substances. Caffeine can also affect hydration, a factor mentioned above. Last but not least, caffeine can increase blood pressure in some people. The lab technician may be alarmed about your blood pressure before drawing your blood. Alcohol, on the other hand, has a more significant effect on blood tests, depending on how much is consumed and when. For example, this substance might lower serum glucose levels in people of all ages and increase plasma lactate. These changes can happen, especially if alcohol is consumed 2 or 4 hours before drawing blood for testing. At the same time, chronic alcohol consumption can lead to other problems such as elevated triglyceride levels, elevated creatine kinase levels, elevated liver enzymes, and increased uric acid. As a result, blood tests can be affected, and the doctor could subsequently give a false diagnosis. Frequent alcohol consumption can also lead to mineral and vitamin deficiencies, particularly decreasing the B-complex vitamins. This potential B vitamin deficiency is a concerning problem in chronic alcohol abusers since the vitamins in the B complex are responsible for the proper functioning of the brain and nervous system. Patients are asked to cease alcohol consumption at least 24-48 hours before drawing blood for testing. This period should give the body enough time to process the alcohol consumed and prevent blood test levels from being affected. However, liver enzymes and triglycerides may not return to baseline in that short period. Another substance of concern is tobacco, which can also have a profound influence on blood test results. Those who smoke cigarettes have higher levels of nicotine in their bodies. As you probably know, nicotine is a drug which can increase cortisol levels and elevate concentrations of fatty acids in the blood. It may also increase hematocrit (red blood cell proportion, part of the CBC panel) since the body tries to produce more red blood cells to compensate for the lower oxygen level it is getting due to smoke in your lungs. As a result, blood tests can come up with confusing results. Whether cigarette smoking is acute or chronic, it’s detrimental for one’s health, and it can mess up with lab investigations. Cigarettes also contain thousands of toxins and chemicals which are harmful to the body, including arsenic and cadmium. These can increase the biomarkers of inflammation in the blood and show up in blood tests. 12. Exercise Physical exercise is one of the most important factors that influence blood test results. Whether you do resistance training, HIIT, yoga, or go for a bicycle ride, this activity could influence some of your blood tests. For example, after an intense session of exercise, the levels of creatine kinase (CK) in the body are increased. CK can remain elevated for up to a week, and this will be picked up on blood tests. Different types of exercises can also increase or decrease thyroid hormone blood tests. For example, doing anaerobic exercises can elevate the levels of thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) in the body. At the same time, anaerobic exercises can also decrease FT3 levels. It is estimated that thyroid hormone levels can be altered for several hours or even several days, depending on the individual and his fitness level. Marathoners are also highly exposed to have altered hormonal levels before and after completing a run. For example, the levels of glucose, albumin, protein, and bilirubin were measured in professional marathoners 4 hours after a run. All these hormones were increased. Studies performed on professional football players who train regularly also reveal that frequent exercise can boost immune function. One study looked at the white blood cell count in 31 males who didn’t do any exercise as well as 32 males who were playing football for a year. The white blood cell count was significantly higher in football players, and this leads to the conclusion that regular exercise can improve the immune response of a person. In another study performed on marathoners, it has been discovered that regular jogging for long periods can reduce the levels of C-reactive protein (CRP), which is a known marker of inflammation. However, excessive running can increase CRP and other inflammatory markers. When doctors perform an inflammation panel, they test the CRP levels primarily. They want to determine if the inflammation in the body is chronic or acute. Having lower CRP levels as marathoners do helps them avoid chronic inflammatory diseases. On the other hand, some marathoners also had high PSA levels after completing a marathon. PSA stands for prostate-specific antigen, and it’s a marker of prostate disease. 2 out of 21 marathoners had increased PSA levels after running a marathon, which might state a problem with the prostate tissue. However, this can be a false diagnosis since vigorous exercise tends to increase PSA levels in certain people. That’s why doctors recommend performing prostate tests twice if PSA levels are increased as a result of exercise. At the same time, one should wait at least 24 hours after exercise to do a prostate exam to get a more accurate diagnosis. Last but not least, weightlifting has been shown to result in profound increases in liver function tests in healthy men used to moderate physical activity, not including weightlifting. Liver function tests are significantly increased for at least 7 days after weightlifting. It is important to impose relevant restrictions on heavy muscular exercise prior to and during clinical studies.   Get Your Health Checked Up Today! It’s amazing that we live in an era when we can order a blood test online and get the results back in a few days. The whole process is also confidential and super-affordable! You should take advantage of that and order your first blood test today. If you don’t know what to start with, check out the popular tests on DiscountedLabs, and explore the multitude of blood panels available. These tests are inexpensive, and they’ll help you get your health under control!

Essential Guide: How to Read Blood Test Results As patient self-education grows with access to information online, more people are taking charge of their health by buying their own blood tests that they can access online without visiting a doctor. Large blood testing networks located all over the United States make it easy for empowered and educated patients to find a lab location near them where they can have their blood drawn or provide a blood sample, urine sample, or saliva sample. Discounted Labs makes it easy for those consumers to buy and learn how to read blood test results, including the results of conventional blood tests, which can provide valuable insights into human health, including the effects of drugs and environmental contaminants, so that they can have more educated discussions with their physicians. After people buy their own blood tests and receive their results, it is sometimes difficult to make sense of what high or low blood test values mean when compared with the “normal” ranges provided by blood testing companies. Searching on the Internet may only give people a limited explanation of the health consequences of these high or low blood test values. We will attempt to include the most common blood tests, their normal ranges, and the meaning of high or low values, including the lower limits, as well as individual tests or collections of related tests called panels, to help people understand and monitor their ongoing health conditions. It is important to note that when interpreting blood test results, your clinician will likely focus on test trends relative to their normal ranges and not just the numerical results themselves. This means that if you have results for a given test from different labs, your clinician will look at how your results compare to the normal ranges for that specific test, rather than just the numerical values listed on your lab report. Additionally, these normal ranges are based on statistical analyses of tests from a large number of patients, providing a more accurate understanding of what is considered a healthy range for each test. Table of Contents Essential Guide: How to Read Blood Test Results How can one interpret the various values presented in blood test results? Consult Your Health Care Provider to Discuss How to Read Blood Test Results 1. Alanine aminotransferase (ALT, SGPT) 2. Albumin 3. Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) (adults) 4. Androstenedione (adult) 5. Aspartate aminotransferase (AST, SGOT) 6. Bilirubin, direct 7. Bilirubin, total 8. Calcium 9. Carbon dioxide, C02 total 10. Chloride 11. Cholesterol 12. Creatinine 13. Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) Sulfate (Adult) 14. Estradiol (Ultra-Sensitive) 15. Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH) 16. Globulin 17. Glucose, fasting 18. Gamma Glutamyl Transferase (GGT) 19. Growth Hormone, GH (resting) 20. Hemoglobin A1C 21. High-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol, HDL 22. Insulin 23. Lactate Dehydrogenase (LDH) 24. Lipoprotein (a) Low-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol 25. Iron 26. Luteinizing hormone (LH) 27. Magnesium 28. Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin (MCH) 29. Mean Corpuscular Volume (MCV) 28. Phosphorus, inorganic (adult) 29. Potassium 30. Progesterone 31. Prolactin 32. Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) 33. Protein, total 34. Sodium 35. Somatomedin C (insulin-like growth factor I , IGF-1) 36. Testosterone, total 37. Testosterone, Free 38. Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) 39. Thyroxine (T4) and Triiodothyronine (T3) 40. Thyroid Antibodies Sources: How can one interpret the various values presented in blood test results? Interpreting blood test results involves understanding values like cholesterol, blood sugar levels, and white blood cell count. Comparing these to standard ranges helps assess overall health. Consult a healthcare provider for detailed explanations and guidance on how to read blood test results accurately. Consult Your Health Care Provider to Discuss How to Read Blood Test Results Consult your health care provider to get explanations about your blood test results and how he or she uses them to diagnose and treat your condition. The information below is not meant to provide medical advice or guide any treatment decisions, and it is only intended as an educational tool to enable you to have an educated discussion with a health practitioner. In order to accurately interpret your blood test results and determine the cause of fatigue, your healthcare provider will consider numerous factors and disorders, such as anemia, an underactive thyroid, or diabetes, which occurs when there are excessive glucose molecules in the bloodstream, that can contribute to prolonged or chronic fatigue. One important factor that your healthcare provider will look at is the history of glucose levels in your bloodstream, which can be determined through a hemoglobin A1c test. This test measures the percentage of HbA1c present relative to the total amount of hemoglobin, providing a history of glucose levels in the bloodstream over a period of about three months prior to the test. We will review 40 of the most common lab tests that people buy through direct-to-consumer lab testing companies like DiscountedLabs.com. 1. Alanine aminotransferase (ALT, SGPT) Your liver produces the enzyme alanine aminotransferase. It's important to test this substance to determine whether your liver is infected or not. This test is sold as part of a Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP test. Normal AST range: 10-55 U/liter for males 10-55 U/liter for females High ALT, SGPT The liver cells might be seriously damaged, to the point of necrosis It might be a sign of extensive trauma to the liver, left heart failure, cirrhosis, or jaundice It might also be a sign of muscular dystrophy, fatty liver, myocardial infarction, and liver tumors As a result of the breakdown of muscle fibers during exercise, ALT can rise in people who perform regular resistance exercises with weights and machines. Low ALT, SGPT Low values of ALT indicate pyridoxal phosphate deficiency, that can result in various health complications, including epilepsy 2. Albumin Albumin is one of the most important proteins in the human body. It helps to carry nutrients to various tissues and it prevents blood vessels from leaking fluids. Normal albumin range 1–4.3 g/dl for men and women When Albumin blood test is high It might signify severe dehydration. It's not possible to increase albumin levels naturally. The only way albumin concentration might get higher is if plasma water decreases significantly When Albumin blood test is low This is a sign of acute or chronic inflammation Albumin levels might drop if the liver has problems synthesizing this protein properly, so it might indicate liver damage The transportation of bile acids and metal ions might be affected if the albumin levels get too low 3. Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) (adults) Alkaline phosphatase is also known as ALP, and it's found in different tissues in the body. This enzyme is mostly present in the bones and liver. It plays a vital role in bone formation and mineralization. Normal Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP) 45-115 U/liter for males 30-100 U/liter for females When ALP blood test is high It might be a sign of biliary obstruction or liver diseases such as hepatitis or cirrhosis sign of bone disorder or even renal problems In some cases, it might indicate thyroid issues When ALP blood test is low It might signify nutritional deficiencies such as a lack of vitamin D, B12, magnesium or zinc It might be caused by severe anemia 4. Androstenedione (adult) Normal Androstenedione ranges 50-250 ng/dl for men and women This is a precursor to major sex hormones such as testosterone and estrogen. Testing for this hormone is necessary in conjunction with other hormonal tests to determine the levels of testosterone or estrogen in the body. The gonads and adrenal glands are responsible for producing androstenedione. When Androstenedione blood test is high Elevated levels might indicate a gonadal tumor, especially when the levels exceed 500 ng/dl When Androstenedione blood test is low This might signify a dysfunction of the adrenal glands, such as adrenal insufficiency It might signify ovarian or testicular failure if the levels are too low 5. Aspartate aminotransferase (AST, SGOT) Aspartate aminotransferase is an enzyme found in most tissues in the human body, particularly in the liver and the heart. It has multiple functions in the human body and abnormal levels usually indicate a liver problem. Normal AST or SGOT ranges 10–40 U/liter for men 9–25 U/liter for women When AST or SGOT blood test is high This could be a sign of liver cell necrosis or obstructive jaundice It might also signify hepatitis or a liver problem caused by drugs and medications Since this enzyme is found in the muscles, it might be a sign of skeletal muscle, inflammatory disease or even heart failure Exercise that involves resistance may also raise AST or SGOT. Normally, the levels of aspartate aminotransferase should be low. Problems appear when these levels get very high due to organ failure or inflammation. 6. Bilirubin, direct Bilirubin is a yellow substance involved in the process of cleaning organic waste from the body, such as dead red blood cells, etc. It is excreted in the bile and urine, and it consists of direct and total bilirubin, as well as blood urea nitrogen and waste products. When doing a blood test, your results might indicate the levels of direct and total bilirubin, blood urea nitrogen, and waste products, as all of these are important to diagnose certain diseases. Normal direct bilirubin range 0-0.4 mg/dl for men and women When bilirubin blood test is high It might signify biliary tree obstruction, cholestasis, and damage to the hepatic cells The patient might have Dubin-Johnson syndrome, which is characterized by an increase of direct bilirubin in the liver The patient may be taking a liver-toxic medication or herb The patient may have hepatitis A, B, or C When bilirubin blood test is low Low levels of direct bilirubin are usually not a cause of concern. Barbiturates or caffeine consumption may temporarily lower these levels. 7. Bilirubin, total This is the total amount of bilirubin enzymes in your body, including direct and indirect ones. Low levels of total bilirubin are not a problem in most cases. You should see a doctor when these levels are elevated, as they can signify different types of damage to your organs. Normal total bilirubin range 0-1.0 mg/dl for men and women When total bilirubin blood test is high It might be a sign of neonatal physiological jaundice Toxins or inflammation may cause the hepatic cells to suffer damage, which would result in high levels. It might be a sign of biliary tree obstruction See item 4 for more 8. Calcium Calcium is one of the most important minerals in the body. It's directly involved in the mineralization and growth of bones and it ensures that teeth remain in good condition. Normal calcium range 5–10.5 mg/dl for men and women When calcium blood test is high This might be a sign of hyperparathyroidism, bone disorders, malignant disease such as metastatic carcinoma of breast and kidney, etc Your blood might contain too much vitamin D, which leads to intoxication Acromegaly or dehydration When calcium blood test is low It might be a sign of hypoparathyroidism or chronic kidney failure It might be due to a magnesium or vitamin D deficiency. The patient might have acute pancreatitis, anemia or problems with the pituitary gland 9. Carbon dioxide, C02 total Carbon dioxide is a byproduct of the food metabolization process. This gas is released into the bloodstream when cells are broken down in simpler substances. The blood full of carbon dioxide returns to the lungs, where it is eliminated through respiration. Normal carbon dioxide CO2 range 24–30 mmol/liter for men and women When carbon dioxide CO2 blood test is high It might be a sign of respiratory acidosis resulted from poor gas exchange in the body Additionally, metabolic acidosis may be the cause, especially if there are numerous episodes of vomiting. When it's too low It might signify tubular acidosis of the kidneys It might be a sign of loss of alkaline fluids through the intestines or compensated respiratory alkalosis 10. Chloride Chloride forms when the element chlorine gains an electron. This is an important electrolyte that helps to maintain cell homeostasis or balance. Normal chloride blood test range 100–108 mmol/liter for men and women When chloride blood test is high High chloride may be caused by metabolic acidosis, especially when it's accompanied by loss of fluids caused by diarrhea Additionally, severe dehydration or a kidney issue like renal tubular acidosis or acute renal failure can be the cause. Hyperparathyroidism can also cause chloride levels to increase When chloride blood test is low Too much vomiting or prolonged diarrhea episodes could be the cause. Gastric issues like gastric suction or gastric secretion can also be the cause of low levels. Excessive sweating or respiratory acidosis can also make the chloride levels drop significantly 11. Cholesterol Cholesterol is one of the most common substances tested by physicians all over the world. This substance lines up the interior of your blood vessels and arteries. It's necessary for making new cells and hormones, but too much of it can be a problem. The liver produces cholesterol, but you can also get it from food. Liver function studies are an important part of a chemistry panel, as they can indicate how well your liver is working and if there are any potential problems with body function. Additionally, within the blood are numerous molecules formed as byproducts of normal biochemical functions that can be measured through a blood test, serving numerous roles in maintaining your overall health. Normal cholesterol ranges The ideal level is less than 200 mg/dl The upper limit is 200–239 mg/dl High is anything above 239 mg/dl When cholesterol blood test is high, It might be a symptom of pancreatic dysfunction, but it can also be due to gout, hypothyroidism, chronic renal failure, or extrahepatic cholestasis. can result from acute intermittent porphyria as well as alcoholism or anorexia nervosa. Might facilitate the development of atherosclerosis, that can lead to various cardiovascular diseases When cholesterol blood test is low This might signify lipoprotein deficiency or the necrosis of liver cells Malnutrition and inadequate nutrient absorption are additional causes of it. It might be associated with mental retardation, rheumatoid arthritis or obstructive lung disease 12. Creatinine The muscles produce creatinine, which is a byproduct of creatine, particularly following a strenuous workout. The kidneys eliminate it from the body through urine. This test is part of the CMP panel. Normal creatinine range 6-1.5 mg/dl for men and women When creatinine blood test is high Too much creatinine in the body might be a sign of renal failure or kidney dysfunction Hyperthyroidism can also be a cause of too much creatinine building up in the body, as well as acromegaly Eating too many meals containing meat can increase the level of creatine in the body Certain supplements, like creatine, can increase creatinine blood levels When creatinine blood test is low This might be a symptom of excessive muscle loss, most likely due to muscular dystrophy. It can also be a sign of liver problems or a lack of protein in your diet 13. Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) Sulfate (Adult) DHEA sulfate is a steroid produced by the adrenal cortex in both males and females. It influences the activity of sex hormones such as testosterone and estrogen. Normal DHEA ranges 10-619 µg/dl for men 12–535 µg/dl for premenopausal women 30-260 µg/dl for postmenopausal women When DHEA blood test is high It might cause anxiety and depression in women during menopause When DHEA blood test is low It might be a sign of psoriasis or hyperlipidemia in men and women 14. Estradiol (Ultra-Sensitive) Estradiol is one of the most common female sex hormones. It's responsible for regulating the menstrual cycle in women and plays an important role in the libido of a man as well. It is responsible for maintaining healthy bone density in men and women. This hormone also starts the development of secondary female sexual characteristics such as breasts, hip enlargement, etc. More information about: the role of estradiol in men Normal estradiol ranges Less than 50 pg/mL in men (however, men with high testosterone may have higher estradiol since 0.4% of T aromatizes to estradiol.) Less than 59 pg/mL in postmenopausal women 50–145 pg/mL in women during the Menstruating Follicular Phase 112-443 pg/mL during the midcycle peak 50–241 pg/mL during the luteal phase When estradiol blood test is high Gynecomastia might appear in men with too much estradiol and low testosterone. This means the development of breast tissue in males For young girls, it might be a sign of early puberty Different types of tumors in the testicles or ovaries could be the cause. Hyperthyroidism for both men and women High testosterone doses may increase estradiol in men. When estradiol blood test is low It might signify the onset of menopause in women It might signify hypopituitarism or hypogonadism in men Usually associated with the Turner syndrome, which happens when the woman has just one X chromosome instead of two Can be caused by polycystic ovarian syndrome, a condition that might lead to infertility in women The overuse of aromatase inhibitors like anastrozole can result in low estradiol. 15. Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH) The anterior pituitary gland is responsible for producing FSH. It's responsible for pubertal maturation, and it works together with the luteinizing hormone to ensure the optimal functioning of the reproductive system. Normal FSH ranges 0–12.0 U/liter for men 0–20.0 U/liter for women during the menstruating follicular phase 0–26.0 U/liter for women during the ovulatory phase 0–12.0 U/liter during the luteal phase 0-153.0 U/liter for postmenopausal women When FSH blood test is high In women, FSH might be a sign of menopause or having the polycystic ovarian syndrome It might also signify a chromosomal abnormality such as Klinefelter's syndrome in men or Turner syndrome in women High levels of FSH in men could also be a sign of damaged testicles from alcohol abuse. In children, excessive FSH might be a sign of starting puberty When FSH blood test is low It might be a sign that a tumor or trauma has harmed the pituitary gland and other crucial hormone control centers in the brain. The woman might not produce eggs and the man might not be able to produce sperm The patient lives a very stressful life, as stress can drastically alter FSH levels Men or women on hormone replacement therapy may have low FSH due to the shutdown of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPGA) axis. 16. Globulin Globulins are a category of proteins produced by the human body. The immune system makes some of them, while the liver produces others to combat various bacteria and viruses. Normal globulin range 6–4.1 g/dl for men and women When globulin blood test is high It might be a sign of cirrhosis, chronic liver disease, or hepatitis When globulin blood test is low This might indicate lymphoproliferative disorder or the onset of various autoimmune diseases 17. Glucose, fasting Glucose is basically the amount of sugar you have in your blood. The entire human body uses glucose as a fuel source, but too much of it can be a problem (diabetes). This test is part of the CMP panel. Normal fasting glucose range 70–110 mg/dl for men and women When glucose blood test is high This might be a sign of diabetes, increased insulin resistance, increased epinephrine, pancreatic disorders or endocrine problems Very high values are commonly associated with acute myocardial infarction, kidney disease or chronic liver disease When glucose blood test is low Although uncommon, a tumor that stimulates the pancreas to produce excessive amounts of insulin may be the cause of low glucose levels. It might also be a sign of serious liver disease or renal disorder 18. Gamma Glutamyl Transferase (GGT) GGT can be found in many tissues in the body, particularly in the liver. This is an enzyme that helps doctors diagnose liver diseases with better accuracy. Normal GGT ranges 1-94 U/liter for males 1-70 U/liter for females When GGT blood test is high High levels are associated with liver diseases such as alcohol-induced liver disorders, inflammation or even cirrhosis Very high levels of GGT might signify post-hepatic obstruction or obstructive liver disease When GGT blood test is low This can be a sign of hypothyroidism or hepatoma It might also indicate prostate or pancreatic cancer 19. Growth Hormone, GH (resting) The growth hormone stimulates cell production and regeneration in the human body. It is produced in a pulsatile fashion and most of it is secreted during periods of deep sleep. Normal growth hormone range 2–5 ng/mL for men and women When GH blood test is high Too much growth hormone can cause gigantism in children or acromegaly in middle-aged adults. Both these conditions are characterized by excessive growth of the bones in the hands and feet. Growth hormone therapy or a pituitary tumor that produces GH can be the cause of it. When GH blood test is low Growth hormone deficiency might be present at birth and caused by a poorly developed pituitary gland Later on in life, too little growth hormone might signify a tumor or serious disorder with the pituitary that prevents it from secreting growth hormone normally 20. Hemoglobin A1C Hemoglobin A1c is also known as glycated hemoglobin, and it measures your average blood sugar levels from the last 2 to 3 months. Although it's not an efficient indicator of diabetes, hemoglobin a1c can be used to monitor its evolution over time. Normal A1C range A normal A1C level is below 5.7%, a level of 5.7% to 6.4% indicates prediabetes, and a level of 6.5% or more indicates diabetes. Within the 5.7% to 6.4% prediabetes range, the higher your A1C, the greater your risk of developing type 2 diabetes. When A1c blood test is high Increased levels of this substance are associated with hyperglycemia in adults Having low levels of hemoglobin a1c is usually not a cause of concern. This can happen if the patient consumes little to no sugar over an extended period of time or fasts for more than 12 to 24 hours. 21. High-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol, HDL HDL cholesterol is also known as "good cholesterol". It is usually calculated and interpreted in combination with either total cholesterol values or LDL cholesterol. Studies indicate that for every 5% decrease in HDL, the risk of coronary artery disease increases by 25%. The HDL test is part of the lipid panel. Normal HDL ranges Over 40 mg/dl for men Over 50 mg/dl for women When HDL blood test is high Although too much HDL is a rare occurrence and shouldn't be a problem, it can increase the risk of serious heart disease in people who already had a heart attack When HDL blood test is low Especially if the triglycerides and LDL cholesterol levels are high, low HDL cholesterol can significantly increase the risk of heart disease such as arrhythmia, myocardial infarction, etc. The use of higher-dose testosterone or anabolic steroids can decrease HDL. Obesity and a sedentary lifestyle are known to contribute to low HDL. Read about how to increase HDL. 22. Insulin The pancreas produces insulin, which aids in controlling blood sugar levels. This substance acts as a "key" that opens up the cells in your body, allowing them to absorb glucose and use it for energy production. Normal fasting insulin  range 2-20 U/ml for men and women When insulin blood test is high, A pancreatic tumor that increases secretion can be the cause of too much insulin. It might also be a sign of insulin resistance syndromes or endogenous hyperinsulinemia When insulin blood test is low, This can be a sign that diabetes type 1 was treated improperly 23. Lactate Dehydrogenase (LDH) LDH is an enzyme found in all living cells and organisms. It can be used as a marker for tissue breakdown. Normal LDH range 110–210 U/liter in men and women When LDH blood test is high It might be a sign of myocardial or pulmonary infarction as well as cellular injury High LDH levels are also associated with nonviral hepatitis, lymphoma, sickle cell disease or hemolytic anemias Very high levels usually signify a host of conditions, such as megaloblastic anemia, hyperthermia, hypoxia, extreme shock or renal diseases Low levels of LDH are rare and usually not a cause of concern. 24. Lipoprotein (a) Low-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol Lipoprotein (a) has been called a powerful predictor of premature atherosclerotic vascular disease. Extra Lp(a) levels are linked to a higher risk of cardiac death in people with acute coronary syndromes and who have restenosis after angioplasty (PTCA) and coronary bypass procedures. This is because they are an independent risk factor for early coronary artery disease. In general, concentrations greater than or equal to 75 nmol/L of Lp(a) in serum are associated with a two- to sixfold increase in risk, depending on the presence of other risk factors. Lp(a) test is an independent risk factor for coronary artery disease and cerebral infarction (in white populations) equal to high LDL cholesterol. Serum concentrations are genetically determined. Fifteen percent to 20% of the white population have Lp(a) levels ≥75 nmol/L and are presumed to be at risk. Race-dependent differences in Lp (a) concentrations are known. The significance of high Lp (a) in nonwhite populations must be evaluated with caution. The Lp(a) levels in different ethnic populations can vary widely. Africans, or people of African descent, generally have Lp(a) levels higher than Caucasians and Asians, while Native Americans generally have levels lower than Caucasians. This variability of Lp(a) levels by ethnic population requires careful interpretation of results based on knowledge of the patient and other cardiac risk factors that may be present. Normal Lipoprotein a ranges Risk: nmol/L Optimal | <75 Moderate: 75-125 High: >125 When lipoprotein a is high It might be a sign of premature coronary heart disease as well as hyperlipoproteinemia  It might lead to hypothyroidism, anorexia nervosa, hepatic obstruction or Cushing’s syndrome When lipoprotein a blood test is low Very low levels of LDL cholesterol occur rarely, but they might signify cancer or hemorrhagic stroke. Very high statin doses can also be the cause of it. 25. Iron Iron is an important element in the human body. It helps with the production of red blood cells and prevents the onset of anemia, a condition characterized by permanent fatigue and lack of energy. Iron also helps transport oxygen to the various cells and tissues in the body. Normal iron range 45–180 ug/dL for men and women When iron blood test is high This might indicate conditions such as hemolytic anemias, poisoning with lead, acute leukemia, hepatitis or a deficiency of vitamin B6 Too much iron can also be associated with hemochromatosis and nephritis Taking higher doses of iron supplements can also cause high iron When iron blood test is low This can signify severe anemia, acute or chronic infection in the body, carcinoma or hypothyroidism Low amounts of iron in the blood are also associated with nephrosis, shortness of breath, paleness, and heart palpitations Other causes of low iron are frequent blood donations or internal bleeding. 26. Luteinizing hormone (LH) The luteinizing hormone (LH) plays a vital role in the reproductive organs for both men and women. It affects the menstruation cycle of a woman and for men, the luteinizing hormone binds to the Leydig cells in the testes to produce testosterone. Normal LH ranges 0-12.0 in men 0–15.0 for the follicular phase of a menstruating female 22–105 for the ovulatory phase 6-19 for the luteal phase 16-64 for postmenopausal women When LH blood test is high In men, too much LH in the bloodstream might be a sign of testicular dysfunction or an LH-producing adenoma. In women, this can indicate ovarian failure or ovarian dysfunction. When LH blood test is low Very low levels of LH might indicate dysfunction of the pituitary gland in both men and women Hormone replacement therapy is another factor that can contribute to low LH in both men and women. 27. Magnesium Magnesium is an important element in the human body. It helps to process glucose in the bloodstream, it supports the immune system, it keeps neurological system function well, it keeps bones strong, and it also ensures a steady heartbeat. Normal magnesium range 4–2.0 meq/liter for men and women When magnesium blood test is high This can be a sign of uncontrolled diabetes mellitus as well as renal insufficiency or dehydration Too much magnesium can also be associated with Addison's disease, hypothyroidism or autoimmune diseases such as lupus When magnesium blood test is low A magnesium deficiency can be characterized by muscle cramps, excessive fatigue, and osteoporosis, among other conditions. Conditions and medications that increase the risk of magnesium deficiency include gastrointestinal (GI) diseases, advanced age, type 2 diabetes, use of loop diuretics (such as Lasix), treatment with certain chemotherapies, and alcohol dependence. 28. Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin (MCH) Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin (MCH) and MCH Concentration (MCHC): the amount or concentration, respectively, of hemoglobin in an average red blood cell. Mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH) is a calculation of the amount of oxygen-carrying hemoglobin inside your red blood cells (RBCs). A high MCHC indicates an increased level of hemoglobin in your RBCs, which can be further evaluated through a red blood cell count. These results are typically included in a complete blood count panel, which is crucial for monitoring overall health and detecting potential medical conditions. Normal MCH range 27.5 and 33.2 picograms (pg) per cell When MCH blood test is high A high MCH indicates an increased level of hemoglobin, the oxygen-carrying protein, in your RBCs. Increases can be associated with anemia. Often, increased MCH occurs in conjunction with a high mean corpuscular volume—or large red blood cells-which suggest macrocytic anemia. High MCH can also be linked to low blood levels of B-12 or folate, indicating a potential health condition. When MCH blood test is low A low MCH indicates that you have a decreased level of oxygen-carrying protein in your red blood cells, also known as anemia. This can result from either lower than normal levels of red blood cells or a decrease in the quantity or quality of hemoglobin, the protein that allows these cells to transport oxygen. Decreases can be associated with certain types of anemia, including chronic fatigue syndrome. Often, decreases occur in conjunction with low mean corpuscular volume—or small RBCs—which suggest microcytic anemia. Hypochromic anemia, resulting from hemoglobin deficiency, can be a possibility as well. Understanding your MCH levels is crucial to interpreting your blood test results and identifying any potential issues with your normal levels of red blood cells. Different ways of studying blood and interpreting results can also affect the reference range, making it important to consult with a healthcare professional for accurate analysis. 29. Mean Corpuscular Volume (MCV) Mean Corpuscular Volume (MCV) is the average size, or volume, of individual red blood cells. Normal MCV range 80–100 femtoliters When MCV blood test is high A high MCV indicates large, or macrocytic, RBCs. A high MCV is associated with specific varieties of anemia and can indicate a deficiency in vitamin B12 or folic acid. It can also be elevated in patients with sleep apnea. When MCV blood test is low A low MCV indicates small, or microcytic, red blood cells. A low MCV is associated with anemia and can indicate an iron deficiency, chronic illness, hereditary disease, or thalassemia. 28. Phosphorus, inorganic (adult) Phosphorus is the second-most common mineral in the body. It makes up for about 1% of a person's weight and its main role is to help in the formation of bones and teeth. The highest levels of phosphorus in the bloodstream usually occur in the morning and they gradually drop to lower levels in the evening. Normal phosphorus range 6-4.5 mg/dl for men and women When phosphorus blood test is high This can be a sign of intoxication with vitamin D, bone tumors or even leukemia Too much phosphorus might also be a sign that some bones are healing inside the body, as well as hypoparathyroidism or renal failure In some cases, it can be associated with respiratory acidosis or pulmonary embolism When phosphorus blood test is low You might experience severe fatigue, muscle weakness, and lack of energy It might contribute to the development of joint pain or bone disorders 29. Potassium Potassium is one of the most important electrolytes in the body. Electrolytes help to transport electrical impulses to and from organs and tissues. Potassium is not produced in the body, so it must be taken from various foods such as bananas, nuts, beans, whole grains, and lean meats. Normal potassium range 4–4.8 mmol/liter for men and women When potassium blood test is high This is also known as hyperkalemia and it's usually associated with a poor excretion of potassium through the kidneys It can also be a sign of anorexia nervosa, dehydration, tissue damage or hemolysis The most common cause of high potassium is kidney disease. Some blood pressure medications can increase serum potassium Uncontrolled diabetes Injuries that cause severe bleeding Some rare diseases can cause high potassium levels. When potassium blood test is low This might be a sign of an adrenal disorder such as Cushing syndrome Low potassium (hypokalemia) has many causes. The most common cause is excessive potassium loss in urine due to prescription medications that increase urination. Also known as water pills or diuretics, these types of medications are often prescribed for people who have high blood pressure or heart disease. 30. Progesterone Progesterone is produced in the ovary and it plays a vital role in maintaining a pregnancy. It also plays an important role in brain function in men and women and it can be used as a medication to treat different hormonal disorders. It's important to note that the levels of progesterone in a woman's body vary throughout the month, depending on her ovulation phase. The progesterone levels skyrocket if the woman is pregnant. Normal progesterone ranges Less than 1 ng/mL for men More than 1 ng/mL for a female during the follicular phase 3-20 ng/mL during the mid-luteal phase When progesterone blood test is high If the woman is not pregnant, this can be a sign of an ovarian problem, such as an ovarian cyst or ovarian cancer. If the woman is pregnant, high levels are normal Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can also be the cause of high progesterone. When progesterone blood test is low Low progesterone levels in women are usually associated with infertility problems and might lead to poor ovarian function testosterone or the use of anabolic steroids may be the cause of low progesterone levels in men. It can be linked to sleep issues and anxiety. 31. Prolactin The pituitary gland is responsible for producing the hormone prolactin. It influences the lactation process, but it also plays an important role in the functioning of the immune system. In some cases, it can also influence the behavior of the individual. Normal prolactin ranges 0–15 ng/mL for men 0–20 ng/mL for premenopausal women 0–15 ng/mL for postmenopausal women When prolactin blood test is high, In men, too much prolactin might lead to impotence, galactorrhea, low libido, and even infertility. Pituitary adenomas (tumors) can be the cause of it. High prolactin levels can decrease testosterone production and cause erectile dysfunction. It can also cause nipple discharge in some men. Caution: Blocking prolactin may cause heart issues. In women, too much prolactin might interfere with the ovulation process and reduce the secretion of estrogen and progesterone When prolactin blood test is low Although very rare, this might reduce the production of milk in women who just gave birth. It might also be a sign of a poorly functioning pituitary gland Higher doses of cabergoline or other prolactin antagonists can cause low prolactin levels in men. 32. Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) Both healthy and unhealthy prostate tissue produce the prostate-specific antigen, a type of protein. It acts as a marker for detecting prostate cancer as well as monitoring the recurrence of prostate-related diseases like prostatitis. It is suggested that you follow these recommendations to prepare for a PSA test. Normal PSA range 0-2.0 ng/ml for men under 40 years of age 0-4.0 ng/ml for 40-year-old men or older When PSA blood test is high It might be a sign of prostatitis or benign prostatic hyperplasia, so high PSA may not be prostate cancer. Strong exercise or surgery may also be the cause of a high PSA level. In some cases, high PSA levels are associated with prostate cancer When PSA blood test is low It might indicate prostate tumors, but usually more tests are required to confirm the diagnosis 33. Protein, total Protein is one of the most important nutrients in the human body, as it directly impacts cell regeneration and repair. Different types of proteins can be used as fuel and they help with the development of muscle tissue and new human cells. Normal protein range 0-8.0 g/dl for men and women When protein blood test is high Too much protein in the bloodstream might be associated with anabolic steroid use High serum protein can also be a sign of insulin progesterone, epinephrine or corticosteroids preparations When protein blood test is low This can signify malnutrition, malabsorption syndrome or a chronic liver disease 34. Sodium Sodium is another important electrolyte in the body. It helps to keep the cell fluid balance at normal levels and it performs other important body functions. Normal sodium range 135–145 mmol/liter for men and women When sodium blood test is high This can be a sign of Cushing's syndrome Too much sodium might also be a sign of increased renal sodium retention in hyperaldosteronism When sodium blood test is low Also known as hyponatremia, too little sodium in the blood might signify diuretic abuse, salt-losing nephropathy or excessive sweating Low sodium might also be caused by excessive vomiting or diarrhea 35. Somatomedin C (insulin-like growth factor I , IGF-1) IGF-1 plays a vital role during childhood and it can have anabolic effects in adults. This hormone acts like insulin as it helps control the blood sugar level. It's produced by the liver and it can be influenced by growth hormone. It increases with hunger as Ghrelin is produced by the stomach. Normal IGF-1 ranges 182–780 ng/mL for people between 16 and 24 years 114–492 ng/mL for people between 25 and 39 years 90-360 ng/mL for people between 40 and 54 years 71-290 ng/mL for people older than 54 years When it's too high This might be a sign of acromegaly, especially if the growth hormone levels are also high. A pituitary tumor might be the cause of this. High growth hormone therapy doses may be the cause of high IGF-1. Hypothyroidism, liver disease, or uncontrolled diabetes are possible causes of low IGF-1. It can slow down height in children. 36. Testosterone, total Testosterone is the most important male sex hormone. It starts the development of primary and secondary sex characteristics in pubertal boys and it helps to produce sperm in adult men. It is linked to libido, lean body mass, and motivation in men and women. You can find a cheap testosterone test on discountedlabs.com Normal testosterone ranges (depending on laboratory) 270–1070 ng/dl for men 6-86 ng/dl for women When testosterone blood test is high, This can be a sign of high testosterone doses. High testosterone doses or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) in women can be the cause of it. When testosterone blood test is low, It can lead to hypogonadism and low sex drive in men It may result from illness, head trauma, the use of opiates or anabolic steroids, exposure to environmental toxins, high prolactin from pituitary adenomas, testicular dysfunction, malnutrition, specific medications, or low LH produced by the pituitary gland. Low testosterone in women can result from a variety of causes, including illness, ovarian or adrenal dysfunction, the use of opiates or anabolic steroids, excessive exercise, and other factors. 37. Testosterone, Free Free or unbound testosterone makes up for about 1% to 2% of the total testosterone people have in their bodies. This type of testosterone is not bound to proteins such as albumin or sex hormone-binding globulin. It is responsible for most of the functions attributed to testosterone (libido, mood, etc.) Normal free testosterone ranges 0–40.0 pg/mL for males between 20 and 40 years 0–35.0 pg/mL for males between 41 and 60 years 0–28.0 pg/mL for males between 61 and 80 years 6–3.1 pg/mL for females between 20 and 40 years 4–2.5 pg/mL for females between 41 and 60 years 2–2.0 pg/mL for females between 61 and 80 years When free testosterone blood test is low, It's usually associated with hypogonadal symptoms in men and women. Low free testosterone is usually caused by low total testosterone or by high sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG). When free testosterone blood test is high High free testosterone is usually caused by high total testosterone (high TRT doses), anabolic steroid use, or low SHBG. 38. Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) The pituitary gland is responsible for producing TSH. It directly stimulates the thyroid and makes it secrete different types of thyroid hormones that are involved in energy production and other metabolic processes. Normal TSH range 5–5.0 U/ml for men and women (some physicians treat based on a range of 0.5–2.5) When TSH blood test is high High TSH levels can mean your thyroid is not making enough thyroid hormones, a condition called hypothyroidism, especially when it's associated with fatigue, depression, and constipation Iodine supplementation can also result in high TSH. When TSH blood test is low It might be a sign of an overly active thyroid or hyperthyroidism. Muscle weakness, nervousness, and irregular heartbeats can accompany it. Thyroid hormone replacement can result in low TSH. 39. Thyroxine (T4) and Triiodothyronine (T3) Hormonal production of the thyroid gland is composed of thyroxine or T4 (80%), and triiodothyronine, or T3 (20%). In the circulation, whole T4 originates from thyroid secretion but most of T3 (80%) is produced outside the thyroid from T4 deiodination. Different factors may affect the conversion of T4 to T3, and circulating T3 is a less reliable indicator of thyroid hormone production than T4. In the blood, most of T4 and T3 are bound to binding proteins and only 0.02% of T4 and 0.3% of T3 are free. Because of their higher diagnostic performance, free T4 (FT4) and free T3 (FT3) measurements have superseded total (free + bound) hormone determination. Free T3 measures the free T3 hormone levels. This test can be really useful for finding out what amount of active thyroid hormones are available for the thyroid receptor sites. Free T3 blood test are high in hyperthyroid conditions and low in hypothyroid conditions. May also be high in thyroid toxicosis. The thyroid function panel also measures the levels of these hormones to assess thyroid-related health, including the levels of these hormones. Free T4 is used to measure the amount of free or active T4 in the blood. High with hyperthyroidism, low with hypothyroidism. The drug Heparin can also cause elevated free T4 levels, as can some acute illness. It’s also high in an overdose of thyroid hormone. Normal total T4 range 5–10.9 g/dl for men and women When T4 blood test is high Too much thyroxine is commonly associated with hyperthyroidism When T4 blood test is low This can be a sign of a poorly functioning thyroid gland or hypothyroidism 40. Thyroid Antibodies When these antibodies are present, it means that your immune system is attacking your own tissue. When your body produces thyroid autoantibodies, it could create a hypo- or hyper-thyroid state. They may also be elevated if there is thyroid cancer. Some antibodies can attach to TSH receptors, but they don’t cause a response in the thyroid. These people will complain of low thyroid symptoms, but the TSH might not change at all. In other cases, the antibodies bind to receptor sites and cause the thyroid to be overactive. Here you will see high T4, low TSH and high antibodies. There are 3 autoantibodies that are tested. The first 2 are the most common: Thyroid Peroxidase Antibody (TPO Ab): This antibody is the one that is usually high in autoimmune thyroid conditions like Hashimoto’s. It is also known as microsomal antibody. Thyroglobulin antibodies (TgAb): These aren’t seen as often as TPO Ab. They are usually ordered when thyroid lab results seem strange because these antibodies can interfere with thyroid hormone production. TgAb is also used to monitor progress after surgery for removing the thyroid in thyroid cancer. You can buy thyroid tests on discountedlabs.com Sources: Troponin Test Basic Metabolic Panel (BMP) Lab Tests Thyroid Tests Journal Article on HIV-Associated Cancers and Related Diseases Lactate Dehydrogenase (LDH) Test Perspectives on Diagnostic Strategies for Excessive Daytime Sleepiness Research Article on Severe Diarrhea and Malnutrition How to Read Your Laboratory Report Fatigue - Merck Manuals Professional Edition Complete Blood Count (CBC) Diagnosing Anemia    

  Since abnormally high hematocrit values can pose serious health problems, this article will analyze the correlation between testosterone therapy and high hematocrit. TRT, sleep apnea and smoking are contributing factors that can cause high hematocrit, which can increase cardiovascular risks if not properly managed. This article explains the basics of how to manage high hematocrit while using testosterone. High hematocrit: Why it is important? The red cells are some of the most important components of a person’s blood. The term hematocrit refers to the percentage of red blood cells in a human’s body. For women, normal hematocrit values should be around 42% and for men, it should be around 47%. A complete blood count test will show the number of red blood cells in the blood as well as the hemoglobin values, white blood cells, and platelets. When the hematocrit is too high, meaning that there are too many red blood cells, this condition is known as polycythemia. When the hematocrit values are too low, this condition is known as anemia. Abnormal hematocrit values can put one’s life in danger if not treated promptly. Since abnormally high hematocrit values can pose serious health problems, this article will analyze the correlation between red blood cell count and various medical conditions such as obstructive sleep apnea syndrome, erythrocytosis caused by testosterone replacement therapy and why people should be careful when donating blood more than once a year. It is important to also know the red cell distribution width (RDW), which is a laboratory measuring system that analyzes the size of red blood cells. Doctors frequently examine the RDW to determine the causes of anemia and to gain more insights about the severity of different cardiovascular diseases.  Platelets are cytoplasmic fragments that quickly react when bleeding is detected in the body. They help in the coagulation process to prevent infection and initiate the healing process. The mean platelet volume (MPV) is a way of measuring the size of the platelets. Both these terms, RDW and MPV, will be used to examine the link between obstructive sleep apnea syndrome and high hematocrit values. Obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS), red blood cells and high hematocrit values OSAS is a sleep disorder that is characterized by a collapse of the upper airway while sleeping. This leads to a low quality sleep, choking sensations, and even hypoxia (low oxygen saturation). A comprehensive study performed between January 2011 and June 2014 shows that high RDW might be a reliable marker when it comes to the severity of OSAS. Hematocrit TRT Study Material and Methods 264 patients were admitted to the sleep unit to undergo a polysomnographic evaluation and were subsequently diagnosed with OSAS. 116 of these patients met the criteria of the study and agreed to participate. These patients reported frequent unpleasant symptoms such as daytime sleepiness, severe snoring at nighttime, etc. The exclusion criteria left out patients who had various types of medical conditions that might have interfered with the results of the study. For example, patients who had known cardiovascular diseases, were smokers, had diabetes mellitus, lung disease or hypertension were not included in the study. The 116 patients who participated in the study were divided into several groups, depending on the apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) which basically indicates the severity of the sleep apnea. There were 3 groups – mild (AHI between 5 and 15), moderate (AHI between 15 and 30) and severe (AHI higher than 30). There was also a control group of 62 individuals who had an apnea-hypopnea index of less than 5. The study was performed using polysomnographic methods. Researchers have attached suprasternal microphones to assess the airflow of the patients during sleep. Blood samples were also drawn using a 21-gauge needle syringe after a fasting period of 8 hours. The apnea was defined as a stop of airflow for 10 seconds or more during sleep. Hypopnea was defined as a reduction of airflow between 30% and 50% as well as a decrease in capillary oxygen saturation. Sleep Apnea and Testosterone- Study Results At the end of the study, researchers have reached the conclusion that patients with severe OSAS have a higher RDW, a higher platelet count and MPV. In addition, the hematocrit and RDW are positively correlated with apnea-hypopnea index. This means that the complete blood count is very important for patients diagnosed with OSAS. It is well known that patients with OSAS experience a state of systemic inflammation due to a variety of causes. This state of inflammation can lead to a higher secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as interleukin-6, which in turn can create erythrocyte deformability and a higher level of RDW. Other studies have shown that high RDW levels are also associated with a higher-sensitivity CRP level which is a known marker of inflammation. One of the most important reasons which make this study unique and highly accurate is the simple fact that patients who suffered from serious health conditions such as coronary artery disease, diabetes mellitus, and hypertension didn’t take part in the study. It is a well-known fact that these illnesses can lead to a higher RDW level which could have compromised the results of the study. Patients who suffer from OSAS also experience hypercoagulability which is caused by high blood viscosity. Hematocrit, erythrocyte behavior, and other factors all affect blood viscosity, which is defined as the resistance of blood to external forces. It has been established that hematocrit plays an important role in the coagulability of blood and can lead to increased blood clotting. When there is an increased blood clotting in the body, the natural flow of blood can be negatively affected and multiple cardiovascular issues can appear. Researchers believe that the hypoxemia experienced by patients with OSAS is caused by a release of inflammatory factors that negatively affect the blood and can lead to hypercoagulability. It has also been found out that the total platelet count in patients with OSAS was higher in comparison with the patients in the control group or those in the mild group. This is real evidence of the correlation between platelet activation and cardiovascular diseases in patients suffering from OSAS. This comprehensive study has shown evidence that RDW, MPV, and platelet count are increased in patients diagnosed with OSAS. The RDW index is also positively correlated with oxygen desaturation index and AHI. Since RDW is included in a standard blood count measurement, it can become an inexpensive and simple tool to diagnose the severity of the OSAS in patients of all ages. As a result, patients who suffer from a severe OSAS can be given priority when it comes to treatment, improving their chances of recovery.   Understanding the occurrence of high red blood cells and hematocrit on testosterone replacement therapy   Erythrocytosis is a medical condition that appears when the body is making too many red blood cells. RBCs are responsible for transporting oxygen to organs and tissues. When there are too many, the blood can become too thick and cause cardiovascular complications. There are 2 types of erythrocytosis – primary and secondary. Primary erythrocytosis is usually caused by bone marrow problems. RBCs are made in the bone marrow and something might trigger an increase in their production. Certain diseases or medications, such as testosterone replacement therapy, can cause secondary erythrocytosis. TRT is the go-to treatment for people who suffer from hypogonadism – aka androgen deficiency. This type of treatment is increasingly popular, especially among people over 40 years of age. It can increase libido, help to maintain muscle mass, improve mood and general wellbeing. However, one of the side effects of TRT is a simple fact that it can cause erythrocytosis. An increase in hemoglobin (Hb) and hematocrit (Hct) is indicative of this medical condition. When the Hb is higher than 18.5 g/dL and the Hct is higher than 52% in men, the patient suffers from erythrocytosis. Since the RBCs count is too high in people with erythrocytosis, the blood viscosity also increases, which can lead to various potentially life-threatening medical issues such as venous thromboembolism. This essentially means that small blood clots separate from their original source and travel through veins and capillaries, causing blockages that result in stroke, myocardial infarction, or other complications. CHECK YOUR HEMATOCRIT TEST WITH A CBC PANEL Testosterone replacement therapy formulations   Testosterone replacement therapy is recommended for men who have testosterone levels lower than 300 ng/dL. It is commonly accepted that T levels decrease by approximately 1% per year after 35 years of age. TRT has been shown to improve the mood of the patients, correct insulin resistance problems, and help increase bone density and muscle mass, among other positive benefits. Getting testosterone into the body can be done in various ways. There are injections, gels, buccal patches, pellets, and others. Some formulations show results much quicker (injections, for example) and each one of them has different effects on patients, depending on the dosage, administration option, etc. TRT-induced high red blood cell volume ( high hematocrit ) When the testosterone levels increase in the body, the hemoglobin and hematocrit levels also increase. Studies have shown that people who undergo TRT have higher blood viscosity and platelet adhesiveness, which can lead to thromboembolic risks. Although there are not many studies that link TRT-induced erythrocytosis (high red blood cells) with thromboembolism, one small research performed by Krauss et al on a group of 15 men can lead to interesting conclusions. The 15 men received short-acting IM TE (testosterone injection) every 21 days and had their bloodwork and testosterone levels monitored. The researchers discovered a correlation between transient ischemic attacks and men who had a mean Hct levels higher than 48%. Although the study was performed on a small group of men, it is an important research finding because throws a spotlight on the potential side effects of TRT. Additionally, the FDA also forces companies that make testosterone products to add a warning on the label stating “possible increased risk of heart attacks and strokes in patients taking testosterone”. High hematocrit: The effects of different testosterone products Researchers have discovered that various testosterone formulations have different effects when it comes to the occurrence of erythrocytosis in patients who undergo TRT. For example, short-acting injectables such as IM TC and IM TE render an incidence of erythrocytosis higher than 40%. The other formulations have a much lower incidence and are considered safer, although testosterone is absorbed much slower into the body. Men who are prescribed and use transdermal gels such as AndroGel 1.62% have an approximately 13% chance of developing erythrocytosis, according to some studies. These types of gels can have a dose of testosterone of 20–100 mg and can be applied to the shoulder area or directly on the skin. Similarly, crystalline pellets that are implanted under the skin have a T formulation of 75mg per pellet and can lead to a 35% chance of developing erythrocytosis in the long run. Studies define erythrocytosis as a hematocrit level higher than 52%. Researchers have found a possible link between high hematocrit levels and high hemoglobin levels in people who are on testosterone replacement therapy. However, more in-depth studies are needed to fully understand the molecular mechanisms that cause erythrocytosis to happen during TRT. Furthermore, some studies show that there is also a higher risk for patients who benefit from TRT to develop CV complications as a result of increased blood viscosity. It's important to also develop other treatment options for hypogonadal men, such as aromatase inhibitors, human chorionic gonadotropin, and others. Lastly, when TRT is absolutely necessary, patients might take into consideration safer testosterone products, such as undecanoates, which can be taken orally or as transdermal gels. Understanding why blood donations shouldn’t be done too frequently It is estimated that approximately 70% of the blood supply in the United States comes from repeat donors. Although donating blood is a commendable act, people should be careful when donating several times a year because they can develop iron deficiency. A plethora of men decides to donate blood to also decrease hematocrit levels. A study conducted on 235 men concluded that frequent blood donors can develop iron deficiency The group of 235 men was separated into 3 categories: – control group with no donations, group 2 with 2 donations per year and group 3 with 3 donations per year. The age of the donors was between 17 and 65 years and their hemoglobin values were higher than 12.5 g/dl. Donors who took iron supplements before were excluded from this study to avoid interfering with the results. The researchers looked at a couple of important values, such as hemoglobin and ferritin levels. Ferritin is a type of intracellular protein responsible for transporting and releasing iron throughout the body. Iron deficiency was defined as serum hemoglobin levels below 13 g/dl and serum ferritin levels below 15 μg/l. No participant in the study has donated blood in the previous 8 weeks. Researchers have found out that the patients in the case groups (2 and 3) had a decreased level of hemoglobin and ferritin in comparison with the patients in the control group. More specifically, men in group 3 had ferritin mean levels of 26 and a hemoglobin level of 13.8, those in group 2 had ferritin mean levels of 56 and hemoglobin levels of 15.4 while the control group had ferritin mean levels of 108 and hemoglobin levels of 15.9. Caution about frequent blood donations: The study presented evidence that donating blood more than once or twice per year can significantly deplete iron stores and can lead to anemia. Moreover, the medical industry relies on donations of a healthy supply of blood rich in iron, so certain donors (especially those who donate frequently) might not be eligible for repeat donations. Likewise, measuring the hemoglobin level only might not be a reliable indicator of a person being suitable for blood donation or not. The ferritin levels should also be taken into account to prevent anemia in various donors. Is supplementing with iron a solution for low iron/ ferritin caused by frequent blood donations? This is a good question, but the answer might not be that simple. It is a well-known fact that supplementing with iron should be done carefully since too much iron in the bloodstream can cause damage to organs and tissues. Additionally, those patients who have family members with cancer might not be eligible for iron supplementation. Speaking with a doctor before taking iron supplements is the best thing to do.   Buy a low cost testosterone test    References: Ohlander et al. Sex Med Rev 2018; 6:77-85 Yousef and Alkhiary, J Sleep Disord Ther 2015, 4:2

Testosterone is routinely associated with "manliness," strength, muscles, aggressiveness, and even roaring V8 engines sometimes. This is the main male sex hormone and women have a little bit of it too. However, the story behind testosterone is a little bit more complex and worth discovering. Free testosterone is usually the one that provides all the benefits when it comes to sex drive, muscle gains, and better cognition. Dive into this article to learn more about testosterone fractions, how to test your testosterone levels, and how to increase free testosterone. What is free testosterone? If you do a testosterone blood test, you're usually getting the total testosterone levels circulating through your bloodstream. Total testosterone is the sum of protein-bound testosterone and free testosterone. Believe it or not, free testosterone only makes up about 1-2% of your total testosterone levels. This substance is freely moving throughout your body, and tissues can easily absorb it to cause chemical reactions. Protein-bound testosterone makes up about 98% of your total testosterone. It splits into two categories: albumin-bound testosterone and SHBG-testosterone. SHBG stands for sex hormone-binding globulin. It's a substance that attaches to testosterone, making it unavailable for organs and tissues to absorb. Albumin is one of the most prevalent protein types in the human body. Approximately 38% of your total testosterone is bound to albumin. This binding is weak, meaning that some organs and tissues can still absorb the albumin-bound testosterone and use it for various purposes. Since 1-2% of your testosterone is free, the remaining 60% of your total testosterone is SHBG-bound. The sum of free and albumin-bound testosterone is also known as bioavailable testosterone. How to Increase Free Testosterone Remember that free testosterone is the one readily available for grabbing by tissues and organs. This is the one usually associated with muscle gains, male attraction, and libido. If you want to increase it, check out these science-based methods. Get More Sleep Believe it or not, sleep is closely related to the production of testosterone in your body. If you don't get enough sleep, your body doesn't produce as much testosterone as it should. This refers to the total level of T and consequently, your free T is also affected. Maintain a Healthy Weight Being overweight or obese can dramatically reduce your total testosterone levels and, implicitly, your free testosterone levels. This is true for both young males and seniors. Therefore, make sure that you lose the extra weight if necessary and this will naturally boost your free testosterone levels. Eat a Balanced Diet This is probably one of the most common pieces of advice you hear daily, but it's worth repeating. A diet filled with junk and processed foods, sodas, too much caffeine, and alcohol will ruin your testosterone levels over time. On the other hand, if you eat more vegetables and fruit, whole grains, and light meat such as fish and chicken, and incorporate regular physical activity, you'll be on the safe side. Normal and high levels of testosterone are commonly associated with a healthier diet that includes enough calories and healthy fats, as well as regular physical activity and training intensity. If you want to increase your free testosterone, you might need to make sensible diet adjustments such as incorporating a balanced mix of protein, fat, and carbs from whole foods into your meals to support optimal hormone levels and weight loss. A 2021 systematic review and meta-analysis suggests that a low-fat diet and regular physical activity may decrease testosterone levels, highlighting the importance of a balanced diet and physical activity for hormonal health. Get Rid of Stress Just like lack of sleep, too much stress is also bad for your testosterone levels. It will basically slow down the production of testosterone and make you feel tired, lethargic, and confused. Stress is inevitable, so you cannot eliminate it. But you can do something to reduce it. Learn what works for you. For example, you can go to a yoga class. You can practice breathing exercises. You might want to give meditation a shot. You could just watch your favorite series online and relax in bed for an entire afternoon. All these activities will reduce your stress hormones and let your body naturally increase testosterone levels. Do Resistance Exercises Lifting weights has a lot of benefits. You don't need to become a professional bodybuilder and sweat for hours in the gym every week. A few resistance exercises several times per week is usually enough to reap the benefits of this activity. Compounded exercises such as bench-press, deadlifts, and weighted squats are difficult, but they engage most of the muscle groups in your body. This will force your body to produce more testosterone to repair and rebuild stronger muscle fibers. You are not alone in your fitness journey, either. Hire a fitness instructor and follow his/her advice. This will keep you motivated and safe while performing weighted exercises. Get More Vitamin D and Zinc Your body metabolizes vitamin D as a result of direct sun exposure. However, most people around the world are deficient in vitamin D. You need to take it as a supplement to achieve normal vitamin D levels and correct deficiencies. Some studies show that vitamin D is commonly associated with normal and high levels of testosterone. If you take enough vitamin D, you're helping your normal production of testosterone and even increasing it slightly. Zinc is another mineral essential for testosterone production, particularly in postmenopausal women and older men. A zinc deficiency is correlated with a drop in testosterone levels, making it important for women and older men to consider taking supplements for men’s health. In fact, in one study, zinc supplementation increased testosterone levels and improved sexual function in postmenopausal women with low blood levels of zinc. Men usually need about 11 mg of zinc per day and you can easily get that from a supplement. Zinc also boosts muscle gain and libido, so you get additional benefits too. Additionally, optimizing vitamin D levels through lifestyle changes and testosterone therapy can also help improve daytime testosterone levels and increase hours of sleep. A year-long trial showed that daily supplementation of just over 3,000 IU significantly increased total and free testosterone in both men and women, correcting vitamin D deficiency and promoting optimal testosterone levels for men’s health. Before beginning high-dose vitamin D supplementation, it is best to know where both values stand. Increase Your Testosterone Dose if on TRT If you are on TRT, increasing the dose can decrease SHBG and increase free testosterone. However, be aware that increasing T dose may also increase hematocrit (blood viscosity) and decrease good HDL cholesterol, so talk to your doctor first. Check Out These Affordable and Accurate Testosterone Tests! Today you can test your testosterone levels and other hormones associated with them with a simple blood test. The liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry (LC/MS) testing technology has become very advanced and the results are increasingly accurate, so why not try it for yourself? For example, you can order this highly sensitive LC/MS total and free testosterone test plus bioavailable T and SHBG. This group of tests checks your total, free, bioavailable, albumin-bound, and SHBG-bound testosterone levels, providing important information about your overall health and potential health conditions, including testosterone deficiency or hypogonadism. There are no limits applied to this test panel, so you get a realistic result using the latest medical technology available. Additionally, you can also check your testosterone levels, physical performance, muscle mass, and potential for erectile dysfunction through affordable and accurate tests that require only small amounts of blood. These tests can also help identify symptoms of low testosterone, such as low libido, and provide insights into how to boost testosterone levels for improved physical performance and quality of life. If you're on TRT, you can also order the Basic TRT Monitoring Panel. This comprehensive test helps people who are on testosterone replacement therapy monitor their hormones. It includes a metabolic panel, blood count panel, sensitive estradiol, testosterone tests, and more. For more testosterone tests, check these testosterone test panels from DiscountedLabs.com Here, you will find the most affordable testosterone blood tests in the United States! Citations Grip Strength and Muscle Mass in Healthy Older Adults The Role of Testosterone in Male Reproductive Function Testosterone, Aging, and Male Osteoporosis The Effects of Testosterone on Cognitive Function Testosterone and Aging: Clinical Research Directions Free Testosterone: Understanding Its Role in Erectile Dysfunction Testosterone Therapy and Cardiovascular Risk The Benefits of Testosterone: Healthline Guide What’s the Difference Between Total and Free Testosterone? Testosterone and Male Behaviours: The British Psychological Society Testosterone and Mortality: JAMA Study University of Florida PathLabs: Free Testosterone Test How Much Testosterone Affects Muscle Growth: VICE Testosterone and Health Outcomes in Men Testosterone Total and Free: Rochester Encyclopedia Testosterone and Aggression: Manual Blog Free Testosterone vs. Total Testosterone: Maximus Tribe The Influence of Testosterone on Aggressive Behaviour: Britannica The Vital Role of Testosterone in Muscle, Bone, and Brain Health: The Vitality Clinic Harvard Health: Testosterone—What It Does and Doesn’t Do

Testosterone Replacement Monitoring Targets and Their Management (Consult Your Physician Before Any Treatment Initiation, Cessation or Changes). These are not absolute values and should be taken into context with symptoms. We will discuss various blood test targets for those undergoing testosterone replacement therapy (TRT). It covers key health indicators such as total and free testosterone levels, hematocrit, PSA, estradiol, blood pressure, kidney and liver function, thyroid levels, iron and ferritin levels, and cholesterol. Each parameter includes a target range and suggestions for management if the results are outside the normal range. This comprehensive approach ensures that individuals on TRT can monitor their health effectively and make informed decisions with their healthcare provider.     Total Testosterone Test above 500 ng/dL If low or hypogonadal symptoms are not improved, increase the testosterone dosage. High T levels (over 1500 ng/dL) with high hematocrit, low HDL, and/or side effects may require dosage reduction.  Free Testosterone ≥ 2 % of total T If low, test for sex hormone-binding globulin. Higher TRT dose may increase free T by decreasing SHBG. Low SHBG may be present in diabetes. Hematocrit ≤ 53 % If high, donate blood or ask your doctor for therapeutic phlebotomy order. If low, investigate anemia or stop donating blood more than every 3 months. How to Lower High Hematocrit PSA ≤ 4 ng/mL If high, talk to your doctor about potential prostatic infection or a referral to a urologist. TRT is contraindicated if PSA is 4 ng/mL or greater. Estradiol (UltraSensitive Test) = 20- ? pg/mL Most men on TRT do not need to use an aromatase inhibitor (AI). Some physicians prescribe low dose AI for what they consider high estradiol. If low, higher testosterone dose and/or cessation of AI may be required. The lab range was derived from men with heart disease and low testosterone, so there is still debate on what the range should be for men on TRT since  0.3 to 0.4 % of testosterone aromatizes to estradiol, so men with high T due to TRT will have higher estradiol.  No upper range value has been determined for men on TRT. Studies have shown that for gynecomastia to occur, high estradiol in the presence of low T and high IGF-1 may be required. Read Estradiol In Men – Why Is It Important For Optimal Health And Fitness Performance and The Top 18 Things You Did not Know About Estradiol in Men Blood pressure ≤ 135/85 mmHg If high, weight loss, exercise, T dose reduction, and/or blood pressure medications may be needed. If too low, blood pressure medication dose needs to be reduced, electrolytes checked or hypoglycemia excluded. Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate (eGFR) (kidney function) ≥ 60 mL/min/1.73 m2 If low, good hydration, use of blood pressure medications, and/or stopping offending oral supplements may improve eGFR. Exercise, high protein intake, creatine supplements, and higher muscle mass can also increase creatinine and decrease eGFR. If under 60, explore getting a Cystatin C test. Liver enzymes ≤ 1.2 x top value of reference range If high, stopping oral supplements can help. AST and ALT can increase with exercise but this is not clinically relevant. If high AST and ALT, test GGT and bilirubin to ensure no liver toxicity is present. TSH ≤ 2.5 U/mL If high, test for other thyroid tests included in a thyroid panel like free T3, free T4, and antibodies to detect hypothyroidism. Why Only Using TSH to Diagnose Hypothyroidism is Wrong Free T3 ≥ 3.7 pg/mL If low, hypothyroidism may be present. See comment on TSH. If high (>5 pg/mL), explore hyperthyroidism. Ferritin 55-270 ng/mL & Iron 55-160 micrograms/dL If low, reduce the frequency of blood donations or phlebotomies and supplement with iron until it is back to normal. If high, donate blood or get therapeutic phlebotomy. HDL ≥ 40 mg/dL The most difficult parameter to manage. Higher TRT doses decrease HDL. Niacin may help increase HDL but may cause flushing. Prolactin ( ≤ 30 nd/dL) Test if Total Testosterone is below 150 ng/dL before TRT to detect potential pituitary adenoma or other issues. High levels (> 30 ng/dL) may cause sexual dysfunction and galactorrhea in men (milk production)     Here are panels that include these tests: Discounted Labs Panels   Buy a testosterone test on DiscountedLabs.com

Did you know that testosterone deficiency has a prevalence of up to 40% in adult males in the United States? A man is deficient in testosterone when his T levels fall below 300 ng/dL of blood. Although this is slightly worrisome news, there are multiple testosterone replacement options you can take advantage of these days. This article focuses on some of the most important testosterone products in 2023. Keep reading to learn key facts, statistics, price ranges, and optimal dosages related to your favorite testosterone products. Top Testosterone Replacement Therapy Options You Have in 2023 Fortunately, there are many ways you can get more testosterone into your system. There are patches, pellets, gels, injections, and even oral capsules that you can take once or twice a day. If you don't really fancy having to inject testosterone once a week, you can take capsules orally and reap all the benefits of testosterone replacement therapy. The following is a quick list of testosterone replacement products you can take advantage of to increase blood T levels. Administration of T products should only be done according to the strict guidance of your TRT doctor. FDA-Approved Testosterone Brands Androderm: Androderm is a transdermal testosterone patch that delivers testosterone through the skin. It is applied daily to maintain stable testosterone levels in men with low testosterone due to certain medical conditions[1]. This option is no longer used by most doctors since its efficacy was not good and it caused skin irritation. AndroGel: AndroGel is a topical testosterone gel that is applied directly to the skin, typically on the upper arms, shoulders, or abdomen. It is designed for daily use to help maintain consistent testosterone levels for men with low testosterone[1]. It comes in two concentrations. Fortesta: Fortesta is another topical testosterone gel applied to the skin, usually on the front and inner thighs. It is used for testosterone replacement therapy in males with low testosterone levels[2]. Testim: Testim is a testosterone gel applied daily to the skin, typically on the upper arms and shoulders, to help maintain consistent testosterone levels in men with low testosterone due to certain medical conditions[1]. Depo-Testosterone: Depo-Testosterone is an injectable form of testosterone prescribed for men with low testosterone levels. It is administered by a healthcare professional at regular intervals, typically every two to four weeks[2]. Testopel is a subcutaneous testosterone pellet that a medical professional implants under the skin. The pellets release testosterone over an extended period, typically three to six months[2]. Aveed: Aveed is an injectable testosterone undecanoate solution designed for long-acting testosterone replacement therapy. It is administered by a healthcare professional at regular intervals, typically every 10 weeks after an initial loading phase[2]. Natesto: Natesto is a testosterone nasal gel that is applied inside the nostrils for testosterone replacement therapy. It is used to treat men with low testosterone levels due to certain medical conditions[2]. Vogelxo: Vogelxo is a topical testosterone gel applied daily to the skin, usually on the upper arms, shoulders, or abdomen. It is used for testosterone replacement therapy in males with low testosterone levels[2]. Xyosted: Xyosted is a subcutaneous testosterone enanthate autoinjector for weekly self-administration. It is prescribed for men with low testosterone levels due to certain medical conditions[2]. Jatenzo: Jatenzo is an oral testosterone undecanoate capsule that the FDA has approved to treat certain types of hypogonadism in men. It is taken orally to help maintain stable testosterone levels in men with low testosterone [2] Testosterone Treatment Prices and Dosing Androgel 1% Price for a 30-day supply (in USD): 55-85 for the generic pump, 90-190 for 50 mg generic packets; also, around 650 USD for Brand 50 mg packets Delivery mode: pump and/or packet Dosage: 25 mg/2.5 g or 50mg/5g Where to apply shoulders, upper arms or on the abdomen Starting dosage: 50 mg daily dose early in the morning When to measure: in the morning before applying the gel Androgel 1.62% Price for a 30-day supply (in USD): 40-140 for the generic pump, 620-640 for Brand pump Delivery mode: pump and/or packet Dosage: 20.25 mg or 40.5 mg Where to apply shoulders or upper arms Starting dosage: 40.5 mg daily dose early in the morning When to measure in the morning before applying the gel Testim 1% Price for a 30-day supply (in USD): around 600-610 for packets Delivery mode: pump Dosage: 20.25 mg per actuation Where to apply shoulders or upper arms Starting dosage: one pump on each shoulder for a total of 40.5 mg early in the morning, it can also be applied on inner thighs When to measure: in the morning before applying the gel Fortesta 2% Delivery mode: pump Dosage: 50 mg or 100 mg Where to apply shoulders or upper arms Starting dosage: two pumps daily in the morning on each thigh When to measure: 2 hours after applying a dose Vogelxo Price for a 30-day supply (in USD): 100-350 for 1% pump, 120-350 for generic packets Delivery mode: shoulders or upper arms Dosage: 50 mg from 4 actuations of 12.5 mg testosterone Where to apply shoulders or upper arms Starting dosage: 50 mg daily in the morning When to measure before applying a dose Androderm Delivery mode: patch applied at night after 10 PM Dosage: 2 mg per day, 2.5 mg per day, 4 mg per day or 5 mg per day Where to apply: abdomen, upper arms, thighs, back Starting dosage: 4 mg per day When to measure: 12 hours after skin application Natesto Price for a 30-day supply (in USD): 195-300 for 5.5 mg/actuation Delivery mode: intranasal pump Dosage: 5.5 mg per pump actuation Where to apply intranasal Starting dosage: 11 mg (2 actuations) 3 times per day at an interval of 6-8 hours When to measure: 2 hours after nasal application Jatenzo Price for a 30-day supply (in USD): around 950 for 237 mg BID pill Delivery mode: oral capsule Dosage: 158 mg, 198 mg, or 237 mg Where to apply oral Starting dosage: 237 mg capsule twice a day (one in the morning, one in the evening) When to measure: 6 hours after the morning dose Testopel Delivery mode: pellet Dosage: 75 mg per pellet Where to apply can be inserted under the skin, in the fat of the buttocks, thigh or lower abdominal wall Starting dosage: 150-450 mg every 3 to 6 months When to measure: at the end of the dosing interval Aveed Delivery mode: injectable solution Dosage: 100 mg/10 ml vial, 200 mg/1-10 ml vial or 750 mg/3 ml vial Where to apply: intramuscular in the glute or thigh muscles Starting dosage: 750 mg (3 ml) in the beginning, then after 4 weeks then after every 10 weeks; 75-100 mg/week also or 150-200 mg every 2 weeks When to measure: injections are administered every 10 weeks and T measurement should be done somewhere in between injections (after 5 weeks or so since the last one) Xyosted Price for a 30-day supply (in USD): 455-575 for 50 mg, 75 mg and 100 mg injections Delivery mode: the solution is placed in the autoinjector Dosage: 50 mg, 75 mg or 100 mg respectively Where to apply: in the abdominal region under the skin Starting dosage: 75 mg applied under the skin once a week When to measure T levels: trough concentrations are measured 7 days after the most recent dose and only after 6 weeks since the beginning of treatment. These are just a few popular testosterone replacement products available in the US. Keep in mind that you can also procure testosterone enanthate in 5 ml (1000mgs) vials from certain pharmacies. This option usually costs less than $30 for a 30-day supply and the testosterone can be injected by each patient without requiring a doctor's visit. Similarly, TRT patients can also choose to use generic testosterone cypionate or enanthate as 400 mg to 800 mg per month that can be injected into muscle (deep IM or shallow IM) or under belly fat (subcutaneous) . The price for a 30-day supply starts at around $30 and it can go up to $85 . (Source: GoodRx). Other affordable sources of testosterone treatments can be purchased from compounding pharmacies like Empower in Houston. Check Out How AUA and ES Guidelines Differ on Testosterone Ranges AUA stands for American Urology Association and ES stands for Endocrine Society. They provide detailed insights and standards on how to interpret hormone levels and blood test results. In some cases, these committees can give different interpretations when it comes to testosterone levels. AUA Guidelines: What is a Normal Testosterone Range and Follow Up? According to the American Urology Association (AUA), you should measure your testosterone levels in the morning in a fasted state to get accurate results. The normal range is between 450 ng/dL and 600 ng/dL of blood. If your levels fall below 300 ng/dL of blood, you are considered to be deficient in testosterone. If you start testosterone replacement therapy, your first evaluation should be between 2 and 4 weeks after beginning treatment. You will also have to attend follow-up visits 6 to 12 months after starting TRT. ES Guidelines: What is a Normal Testosterone Range and Follow Up? On the other hand, the Endocrine Society (ES) gives slightly different reference ranges. For example, the normal testosterone range is between 264 ng/dL and 916 ng/dL of blood. The best moment to test your T levels is early in the morning in a fasted state. Testosterone deficiency is confirmed if your T levels fall below 264 ng/dL of blood.  TRT follow up visits should be done after 2-3 months and after 6 to 12 months from the start of your testosterone replacement protocol. How to Get Your Own Affordable Testosterone Test Remember that now it's easier than ever to check your testosterone levels and see if you are a suitable candidate for testosterone replacement therapy. If your T levels fall below 350 ng/dL and have low testosterone symptoms then you should talk with a TRT doctor and see what testosterone replacement options you have. Check your testosterone levels quickly and confidentially by ordering a total and free testosterone test from DiscountedLabs today. Key Terminology and Facts About Testosterone It's important to also have some basic understanding of how testosterone works in the body, so you can make better decisions when talking with your TRT doctor. For instance, the Leydig cells in your testicles produce more than 95% of your testosterone. Testosterone daily production ranges from 3 mg to 11 mg and it peaks early in the morning. Healthy adult males have the highest concentration of testosterone early in the morning and it gradually drops throughout the day. That's why the best time to measure your T levels is early in the morning to get accurate results. Natural Testosterone Short half-life - your testosterone has a half-life between 10 and 100 minutes. It peaks once every 3 hours as the luteinizing hormone stimulates the Leydig cells to produce more testosterone. With the passing of time, these cells become less sensitive to LH and they produce increasingly low T levels. It's estimated that males lose about 1% of their testosterone production every year after the age of 30. 2 percent is free; about 2% of your total testosterone level is free. This means that it circulates freely through the bloodstream and it can bind to other organs or tissues. 70% of your testosterone is bound to sex hormone-binding globulin and nearly 30% is bound to albumin. Testosterone metabolism - fractions of your testosterone are converted into other hormones and substances. For example, from 5% to 8% of your testosterone is converted into dihydrotestosterone (DHT). This hormone is responsible for prostate maturation and the growth of the body, as well as facial and pubic hair. About 0.3%–0.5% of your testosterone is also converted into estradiol by the aromatase enzyme. Some of the main roles of estradiol in men are involved with libido and bone health. Trough concentration - this refers to the lowest  concentration of a drug in the bloodstream immediately before injecting or administering another dose. It's highly recommended to measure your testosterone levels at trough concentration because this will produce the most accurate results. Based on these results, TRT doctors can make more accurate adjustments to your protocol. Find Out More About Testosterone Products! This is just a brief overview of some of the most popular testosterone products in the US, but there's plenty more high-quality information out there. Visit Excelmale.com and learn everything you need to know about testosterone, TRT, how to interpret your blood test data, and how to tweak your protocol for optimal results. Also, you can download the Testosterone Replacement Options paper from this link.   References: [1] "FDA-approved testosterone formulations include the topical gel, transdermal patch, buccal system (applied to upper gum or inner cheek), and injection. The manufacturers of two prescription..." URL: https://www.fda.gov/drugs/postmarket-drug-safety-information-patients-and-providers/testosterone-information [2] "by Drugs.com Brand names of testosterone include Androderm, AndroGel, Fortesta, Testim, Depo-Testosterone, Testopel, Aveed, Natesto, Vogelxo, Xyosted, Jatenzo, Tlando, and Kyzatrex. Testosterone is an androgen indicated for testosterone replacement therapy in males." URL: https://www.drugs.com/medical-answers/brands-testosterone-3510863/   Recommended Sources: Testosterone Replacement Therapy Options | Excel Male TRT Forum Testosterone Replacement Products in the U.S.: Video Review by Nelson Vergel - ExcelMale Testosterone Test Near Me: Your Complete Guide Testosterone levels show steady decrease among young US men        

Except for estradiol, no hormone is more misunderstood than dihydrotestosterone, or DHT. Many men fear DHT, going out of their way to use a DHT blocker for their medical condition. However, DHT is a critical hormone, one that men need for sexual and prostate health, cognitive function, skeletal strength, and many other reasons. Like everything in life, there are downsides to DHT, but the upside of healthy DHT levels far outweighs the challenges it can present. It is crucial to choose a DHT blocker that has support from scientific research in order to ensure both safety and efficacy when considering its use for hair thickness and general health care. In the intricate world of hormones and their impact on men's health, Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) often emerges as a topic of considerable debate and intrigue. This potent androgen, frequently overshadowed by its more famous counterpart testosterone, plays a pivotal role in numerous physiological processes yet is often misunderstood or feared due to its association with certain medical conditions. Our journey in this article is to demystify DHT, unraveling its complexities to reveal not just the concerns it raises but, more importantly, the indispensable benefits it offers for male health. From sexual wellness to cognitive abilities and skeletal integrity, DHT's influence is far-reaching, making it essential to understand and appreciate its role in the broader context of hormonal balance and overall health. DHT – FRIEND OR ENEMY? Except for estradiol, no hormone is more misunderstood than dihydrotestosterone, or DHT. Many men fear DHT, going out of their way to lower it and frustrate its biological activity. However, DHT is a critical hormone, one that men need for sexual and prostate growth, cognitive function, skeletal strength, and many other reasons, such as hormonal health conditions. Like everything in life, DHT has downsides, but the upside of healthy DHT levels far outweighs the challenges it can present. DHT, the main hormone involved in male-pattern hair loss, can attach to receptors in your scalp and damage your hair follicles, leading to a receding hairline, hair thinning, and even severe hair loss. DHT – Where it Comes From The principal hormone produced in men is, of course, testosterone. When testosterone is produced by the testicles (or injected or absorbed by a man on testosterone replacement), an enzyme, 5-alpha reductase(5-AR), sets to work, converting a portion of that testosterone to DHT, which is the conversion of testosterone into the androgen hormone dihydrotestosterone (DHT). This conversion prevents some testosterone from reaching the androgen receptors in the brain, genitals, skin, and other tissues. Initially, that may sound like the body is deprived of a needed hormone, testosterone. However, for the most part, this conversion is actually in a man’s best interest. Though estimates vary, DHT binds much more efficiently to androgen receptors; DHT is 300 to 500 percent more efficient at reaching and binding to the receptors and is far more potent than testosterone. If tissues were deprived of DHT, 5-AR hadn’t done its job; there would be dramatic physiological changes. While it is true that testosterone remains the primary, active androgen in muscle and muscle development, DHT is still critical for testosterone's full performance-enhancing effects. Specifically, the impact of DHT on the central nervous system increases neurological efficiency and strength. The production of body hair DHT comes from testosterone, with the help of the enzyme 5-alpha reductase (5-AR). The production of DHT is a natural process that occurs when testosterone is converted into the androgen hormone dihydrotestosterone (DHT) with the help of the enzyme 5-alpha reductase (5-AR). DHT – Positive Effects  To understand DHT’s androgenic properties, consider the following. Male Development – Physical and sexual development in the human male is DHT-dependent. DHT is responsible for the growth and development of the penis, the prostate, and the testicles. It not only helps with sex differentiation during fetal development but also supports the changes that occur during puberty and adulthood. Libido – DHT supports a healthy sex drive. Men with optimal levels of the hormone report a far stronger drive than men with lower levels. Prostate Health – Men with balanced levels of DHT may have fewer prostate health issues. Cognitive Function – One study indicated that administering DHT to men between 34 and 70 resulted in memory improvements. The androgenic properties of the hormone encouraged the retrieval of stored memories and the archiving of new ones. Low/lower levels of DHT were linked to a decline in cognitive function in elderly men. Blood Sugar Management – Higher levels of DHT help to reduce the risk of diabetes by controlling sugar levels and preventing hyperglycemia. DHT can improve insulin sensitivity, support efforts to lose weight, and may provide adjunctive support in treating diabetes.  Cardiovascular Health – Men with coronary artery disease may benefit from higher levels of DHT since lower hormone levels have been shown to increase the risk of cardiovascular disease. It may be a simple association – higher levels of DHT might lower the mortality associated with heart disease. Stroke Risk – Researchers followed a group of men for six years and learned that higher levels of DHT and testosterone seemed to lower the risk of stroke.  Depression – In one study, men who used finasteride, a drug that blocks 5-AR and, thus, generates lower levels of DHT, had higher rates of depression than a control group. DHT may well be necessary to support mental and emotional health. Anti-Aging – Higher levels of DHT, testosterone, and estradiol seem to slow the decline associated with aging. Lower levels of all three hormones brought about cellular changes seen in the elderly. Higher levels were associated with “younger” cellular function. Bone and Skeletal Health – Along with estradiol, appropriate levels of DHT support and maintain bone density in men. DHT – The Downside The DHT story is firm but not universally positive. The drawbacks of DHT must be considered. Baldness – Hair loss is probably the number one DHT—harmful in the minds of most men who are involved in testosterone therapy. Studies have shown that higher levels of DHT are linked to increased male-pattern baldness. In women, elevated levels of DHT can lead to male-like hair growth patterns. Cancer – DHT is critical for the normal development of the prostate, but high hormone levels have been associated with prostate cancer risk. However, studies on DHT and prostate cancer are contradictory. Acne – Inflammatory acne flares have been linked to DHT.  DHT – The Bottom Line: A Friend or Foe? For men, DHT is a friend and an important one. However, like virtually every hormone in the body, the key to health is balance. If DHT levels drop too far, men open themselves to low libido.  DHT is not likely to be tested in most men undergoing testosterone replacement therapy. Some clinicians fail to recognize the importance of DHT for men’s health and libido, so they fail to monitor it. It’s entirely possible, even likely, that some men are not obtaining the maximum benefits of testosterone replacement because (unbeknownst to them) their DHT levels are not optimal.  DiscountedLabs.com offers a highly affordable DHT test to help you determine if your body is producing sufficient DHT. The DHT test is quick, easy to administer, and reliable.   How to Increase DHT There are natural ways to boost DHT levels if one is not on a testosterone replacement protocol. Here are a few things that can be done. Exercise more, particularly resistance training and high-intensity training. Increase your intake of caffeine, creatine, or green tea supplements. Boost the amount of zinc in your diet via the food you eat or a supplement. Take a DHEA supplement if your DHEA blood level is low. Get a DHEA blood test Lose weight. Optimize your testosterone blood level, which is low. Last but not least, use a scrotal testosterone cream. Applying compounded (alcohol-free) testosterone cream to the testicular skin has increased DHT considerably. Using a DHT Blocker to Lower DHT It should be clear that most men have no reason to suppress their DHT levels. However, Propecia is regularly prescribed as a DHT blocker for men anxious about losing their hair, specifically to address male pattern baldness (a.k.a. androgenic alopecia). As was noted, Propecia will stop or suppress the 5-AR activity that produces DHT, thereby reducing DHT production. By blocking or slowing the work of 5-AR, one of the possible adverse side effects that DHT can have, male pattern baldness, may be prevented or arrested. Unfortunately, there is scientific evidence that some men who take this medication may risk lowering their libido and mood. In many cases, using DHT blockers like finasteride can help you to slow down or stop androgenic hair loss and even stimulate growth, allowing people to slow down or prevent hair loss and maintain a full head of thicker, healthier hair well into their 40s, 50s, and 60s. Topical finasteride is not FDA-approved yet but has shown promise in clinical studies. It can be sold by compounding pharmacies with a prescription. For reasons still not clearly understood, this medication can produce a syndrome in some men very similar to those symptoms associated with hypogonadism. Loss of libido, weak erections, malaise, and fatigue plague many men even after they have stopped using the drug. While it’s true that no one wants to lose their hair, no man wants to wind up with what has come to be known as post-finasteride syndrome. With proper attention, DHT can be a friend and ally in the search for optimal health. Don’t fear it; accept it and have it work to your advantage. Conclusion Navigating the intricate landscape of DHT and its role in men's health requires a nuanced understanding that balances the pros and cons. While concerns like male pattern baldness and potential links to certain health issues cannot be overlooked, the substantial benefits of DHT in areas like sexual health, cognitive function, and metabolic regulation highlight its critical role. The key lies in achieving hormonal equilibrium and ensuring that DHT levels are maintained within an optimal range. For those considering testosterone replacement therapy or DHT blockers, it's crucial to make informed decisions based on a comprehensive understanding of DHT's impact and the latest scientific research. At DiscountedLabs.com, we offer affordable and reliable DHT testing, empowering you to make the best choices for your health and wellbeing. Remember, DHT is not just a hormone to be managed but a vital component of a balanced and healthy male physiology.   Buy Your DHT TEST on DiscountedLabs.com