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Convenient Blood Work Houston Labs: Affordable Options How can someone schedule blood work appointments in Houston? Scheduling blood work appointments in Houston is simple. You can contact local labs directly to book an appointment, or use online platforms that allow you to search for nearby labs and schedule appointments at your convenience. Many facilities also offer walk-in services for added flexibility. Key Highlights Houston offers a wide range of options for discounted blood work Discounted blood work can help detect diseases and conditions early Online directories can help you find discounted labs in Houston Direct-to-consumer lab testing allows you to order blood work without a doctor's visit Knowing how to prepare for your lab visit can ensure accurate results Interpreting blood test results can provide important insights into your health condition Introduction If you're in the Houston area and in need of blood work, you're in luck. Houston, being the nation's fourth-largest city, offers a plethora of options for discounted blood work. Whether you're looking for comprehensive blood tests or specific tests for diseases such as hormone testing, you can find affordable options in Houston, with many labs such as Labcorp and Quest Diagnostics offering onsite services for faster results. These discounted blood work options are not only convenient, but they also promote overall wellness by providing easy access to important health information. Detecting diseases and conditions early is crucial for effective treatment and management. Blood tests can reveal important information about your general health status, including conditions like anemia, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. They can also detect hormone imbalances, nutritional deficiencies, and even certain sexually transmitted diseases. In this blog, we will explore the various options available for discounted blood work in Houston. We will discuss the benefits of opting for discounted labs, how to ensure quality when choosing a lab, and provide a guide to finding discounted lab locations in Houston. Additionally, we will address frequently asked questions about blood work, such as how often it should be done and whether it can be done without insurance. By the end of this blog, you will have a comprehensive understanding of discounted blood work options in Houston and be equipped to make informed decisions about your health. Exploring Discounted Blood Work Options in Houston If you're looking for affordable blood work in the Houston area, there are several options available to you. DiscountedLabs.com offers low-cost and confidential options for comprehensive blood tests or tests for specific diseases. These tests can be ordered online and completed at your nearest lab with no doctor's order necessary. Early detection of diseases such as cancer, heart disease, and strokes is crucial for saving lives, and blood tests can play a crucial role in identifying these conditions. With DiscountedLabs.com, you can take control of your health without the need for a doctor's order, making it a convenient and accessible option for those seeking discounted blood work in Houston. Additionally, you can use DiscountedLabs.com's blood tests in Houston, Texas, without a doctor's order, providing even more convenience and affordability for your health needs. Benefits of Opting for Discounted Labs Discounted labs offer several benefits for individuals seeking affordable blood work. Some key benefits include: Cost savings: Discounted labs often offer significantly lower prices compared to traditional healthcare providers. Accessibility: With discounted labs, you can easily access blood work without the need for a doctor's visit or a lengthy appointment process. Comprehensive testing: Discounted labs typically offer a wide range of tests, allowing you to get a comprehensive picture of your health. Confidentiality: Many discounted labs prioritize patient privacy and offer confidential testing options. By choosing a discounted lab for your blood work needs, you can save money, access a variety of tests, and maintain your privacy throughout the testing process. How to Ensure Quality When Choosing a Discounted Lab When choosing a discounted lab for your blood work, it's important to ensure that you are receiving high-quality testing. Here are some steps you can take to ensure quality: Research the lab: Look for reviews and testimonials from other patients who have used the lab's services. This can give you insight into the lab's reputation and the quality of their testing. Check accreditations: Make sure the lab has accreditation from reputable organizations like the College of American Pathologists (CAP) or the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA). These accreditations indicate that the lab meets certain quality standards. Ask about quality assurance: Inquire about the lab's quality assurance processes, such as proficiency testing and internal quality control measures. These processes help ensure accurate and reliable test results. By taking these steps, you can have confidence in the quality of the discounted lab you choose and trust that your blood work results are accurate and reliable. Guide to Finding Discounted Lab Locations in Houston Finding discounted lab locations in Houston is made easier with the help of online directories and resources. These online directories allow you to search for labs in your area and compare prices and services. By using these directories, you can find affordable lab testing options that meet your specific needs. Find a Lab Near You Here Using Online Directories for Lab Searches Online directories are a valuable resource for finding discounted lab locations in Houston. Here are some tips for using online directories effectively: Use specific search terms: When searching for labs in Houston, be sure to include relevant keywords such as "discounted labs," "Houston, TX," or "affordable lab testing." Compare prices and services: Online directories often provide information about the prices and services offered by different labs. Take the time to compare these details to find the best option for your needs. Read reviews and ratings: Online directories often include reviews and ratings from other patients who have used the lab's services. This can give you valuable insights into the quality and customer satisfaction of each lab. By utilizing online directories, you can easily find discounted lab locations in Houston and make informed decisions about where to get your blood work done. Recommendations for Affordable Blood Work Labs When it comes to finding affordable blood work labs in Houston, there are several recommendations to consider: Discounted Labs: This lab offers a wide range of lab tests at affordable prices, including general health tests, hormone testing, and specialty tests. Affordable primary care clinics: Some primary care clinics in Houston offer discounted lab testing for patients without insurance. Examples include GoHealth Urgent Care and Spring Branch Community Health Center, and Legacy Health Systems. Local clinics with financial assistance: Certain clinics in Houston offer financial assistance programs for individuals without insurance. These programs can help make blood work more affordable. By considering these recommendations, you can find affordable blood work labs in Houston that meet your needs and budget. Steps to Buy Blood Work Without a Doctor's Visit Direct-to-consumer lab testing allows individuals to order blood work without a doctor's visit. This convenient option is especially beneficial for those with specific health concerns or individuals who want to monitor their health regularly. Here are the steps to buy blood work without a doctor's visit: Choose a reputable direct-to-consumer lab testing provider like DiscountedLabs.com Select the desired blood tests from their available options. Place an order online and pay for the selected tests. Visit a participating lab location to have your blood drawn. Receive your test results online or via email. Direct-to-consumer lab testing provides an accessible and efficient way to get blood work done, offering convenience and flexibility for individuals seeking affordable and timely testing. Understanding Direct-to-Consumer Lab Testing Direct-to-consumer lab testing allows individuals to order and access blood work without a doctor's visit. This type of testing provides several benefits, including: Convenience: With direct-to-consumer lab testing, you can order blood work from the comfort of your own home and visit a lab at your convenience. Customization: Direct-to-consumer lab testing allows you to select the specific tests you need based on your health concerns or goals. Cost savings: By eliminating the need for a doctor's visit, direct-to-consumer lab testing can be more cost-effective compared to traditional lab testing. Timely results: Direct-to-consumer lab testing typically provides faster turnaround times for results, allowing you to access important health information sooner. It's important to note that direct-to-consumer lab testing should be used as a tool for monitoring and managing your health, and it is not a substitute for regular medical care or professional guidance. Popular Types of Blood Tests Available at Discounted Prices Discounted blood work in Houston covers a wide range of tests. Some of the popular types of blood tests available at discounted prices include: Complete Blood Count (CBC) Lipid Panel Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP) Vitamin D Testing Hormone Testing These tests provide valuable information about various aspects of your health, including red and white blood cell counts, cholesterol levels, organ function, and the presence of sexually transmitted diseases. By opting for discounted blood work, you can access these important tests at affordable prices, including the Lipid Panel Test which checks for the levels of LDL and HDL cholesterol, and the Urine Sample Test which can provide insights into your overall health. Comprehensive Blood Panels Explained Comprehensive blood panels, such as a Complete Blood Count (CBC) and Lipid Panel, provide valuable insights into your overall health. Here's a brief overview of these blood tests: Complete Blood Count (CBC): This test measures different components of your blood, including red and white blood cells, hemoglobin, and platelets. It helps evaluate your overall health and can detect various conditions such as anemia, infections, and blood disorders. Lipid Panel: A Lipid Panel measures the levels of cholesterol, triglycerides, and other lipids in your blood. It helps assess your risk for heart disease and provides valuable information about your cardiovascular health. By understanding the purpose of these comprehensive blood panels, you can better interpret the results and work with your healthcare provider to manage your health effectively. Specialty Tests and Their Importance In addition to general health tests, discounted blood work in Houston also includes specialty tests that focus on specific health concerns. Some examples of specialty tests and their importance include: Hormone testing is a crucial diagnostic tool used to assess the levels of various hormones in the body. Hormones play a vital role in regulating numerous bodily functions, including metabolism, growth and development, mood, and reproductive health. By conducting hormone tests, healthcare providers can identify hormonal imbalances or abnormalities that may be causing symptoms such as fatigue, weight gain, infertility, or mood swings. There are different types of hormone tests available, depending on the specific hormones being evaluated. Blood tests are commonly used to measure hormone levels such as thyroid hormones, cortisol, insulin, and sex hormones like estrogen and testosterone. Saliva tests may also be utilized to assess cortisol levels, especially for conditions like adrenal fatigue. Additionally, urine tests can provide valuable information about hormone metabolites and their breakdown products. Interpreting hormone test results requires expertise to understand the optimal ranges for each hormone and how they interact with one another. Based on the findings of hormone testing, healthcare providers can recommend appropriate treatment options such as hormone replacement therapy, lifestyle modifications, or dietary changes to rebalance hormones and improve overall health and well-being. Regular hormone testing is particularly important for individuals experiencing symptoms of hormonal imbalance or those with conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), thyroid disorders, or menopause. By monitoring hormone levels over time through repeated testing, healthcare professionals can track progress and adjust treatment plans as needed to optimize hormonal health. By accessing specialty tests at discounted prices, you can address specific health concerns and ensure prompt detection and management of related conditions. Preparing for Your Blood Work Houston Proper preparation is essential for accurate blood test results. Here are some key steps to follow when preparing for your lab visit: Fasting: Some blood tests require fasting for a certain period of time, typically overnight. Follow the fasting instructions provided by the lab to ensure accurate results. Pre-test requirements: Some blood tests may have specific pre-test requirements, such as avoiding certain medications or activities. Make sure to review and follow these instructions. Appointment: Schedule an appointment with the lab to ensure a timely and efficient visit. By following these steps, you can ensure that your lab visit goes smoothly and that you receive accurate and reliable blood test results. What to Bring to Your Appointment When visiting the lab for your blood work appointment, it's important to bring the necessary documents and items. Here's a checklist of what to bring: Lab Requisition Form: If you have health insurance, bring your insurance card to provide the necessary information for billing purposes. Photo ID: Bring a valid photo ID, such as a driver's license or passport, to verify your identity. By bringing these items to your lab appointment, you can ensure a smooth and efficient process for your blood work. Fasting and Other Pre-test Requirements Fasting refers to abstaining from food and drink for a certain period of time before a blood test. Fasting is often required for tests that measure blood glucose and cholesterol levels. Some other pre-test requirements for blood work may include avoiding certain medications or activities. It's important to follow these requirements to ensure accurate test results. If fasting is required for your blood test, follow the instructions provided by the lab. Typically, fasting for at least 8–12 hours is necessary. However, it's important to drink plenty of water to stay hydrated during the fasting period. If you have any concerns or questions about the pre-test requirements, don't hesitate to reach out to the lab or your healthcare provider for clarification. What to Expect During and After Your Blood Test Having a blood test can be a simple and straightforward process. Here's what you can expect during and after your blood test: The blood draw process: A healthcare professional will clean the injection site, usually the inside of your elbow, and insert a needle to collect a blood sample. You may feel a slight pinch or prick during this process. Interpreting results: Your blood sample will be sent to a laboratory for analysis, and the results will be sent to your healthcare provider. They will interpret the results and discuss them with you during a follow-up appointment. Post-test care: After your blood test, you can resume normal activities unless your healthcare provider advises otherwise. By understanding the blood draw process and what to expect after the test, you can approach your blood work appointment with confidence and ease. The Blood Draw Process Simplified The blood draw process is a routine procedure that healthcare professionals perform to collect a blood sample for testing. Here's a simplified overview of the blood draw process: Preparation: The healthcare professional will clean the injection site with an antiseptic solution to ensure a sterile environment. Needle insertion: A small needle is inserted into a vein, usually in the inside of your elbow, to collect a blood sample. You may feel a slight pinch or prick during this process. Blood collection: The healthcare professional will use a syringe or collection tube to collect the required amount of blood. Bandage application: After the blood sample is collected, a bandage or adhesive strip is applied to the injection site to stop any bleeding. The entire process usually takes a few minutes, and the healthcare professional will guide you through each step to ensure your comfort and safety. Interpreting Results: A Basic Overview Interpreting blood test results can provide valuable insights into your health. Here's a basic overview of how to interpret blood test results: Reference ranges: Blood test results are typically compared to reference ranges, which are established based on the average values for a specific population. Results within the reference range are considered normal, while results outside the range may indicate potential health concerns. Abnormal results: If your blood test results are outside the reference range, it doesn't necessarily mean you have a specific condition. Further evaluation and follow-up with your healthcare provider are usually necessary to determine the cause of the abnormal results. Follow-up care: Your healthcare provider will interpret the results in the context of your medical history and symptoms. They will discuss the findings with you and provide appropriate recommendations or treatment plans based on the results. It's crucial to remember that a qualified healthcare professional who can offer individualized advice based on your particular health needs and circumstances should interpret blood test results.     Test Name What it Tests Complete Blood Count (CBC) Measures different components of your blood, including red and white blood cells, hemoglobin, and platelets. Lipid Panel Measures the levels of cholesterol, triglycerides, and other lipids in your blood. Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP) Evaluates organ function and measures various substances in your blood, such as electrolytes, glucose, and liver enzymes. Hormone Testing Detects imbalances in hormones like testosterone, estrogen, progesterone, and others. Vitamin D Testing Measures the level of vitamin D in your blood, which is important for bone health and overall well-being. Understanding these common blood tests and their purposes can help you gain insights into your health and work with your healthcare provider to make informed decisions about your well-being. Conclusion If you're looking for discounted blood work options in Houston, this guide has you covered with key highlights, benefits of opting for discounted labs, and tips on ensuring quality. Learn about finding discounted lab locations, steps to purchase blood work without a doctor's visit, and popular types of blood tests available at discounted prices. From understanding pre-test requirements to interpreting results, this informative resource provides insights into comprehensive blood panels and specialty tests. Discover how to navigate legal and safety considerations, prepare for your lab visit, and access affordable blood work labs. Stay informed about how often to get blood work done, insurance options, and signs that indicate the need for blood work. Frequently Asked Questions How Often Should I Get Blood Work Done? The frequency of blood work depends on individual factors such as age, overall health, and specific risk factors. In general, it is recommended to have a routine blood test at least once a year as part of regular check-ups and preventive care. However, your healthcare provider may recommend more frequent blood tests if you have any ongoing health concerns or conditions that require monitoring. Can I Get Blood Work Done Without Insurance? Yes, you can get blood work done without insurance using DiscountedLabs.com. Many local clinics and laboratories, such as GoHealth Urgent Care and Spring Branch Community Health Center, offer blood testing services that may be accessible and affordable for uninsured individuals. These facilities may also provide financial assistance options to make blood testing more affordable for those without insurance coverage. What Are the Signs I Need to Get Blood Work? There are several signs and symptoms that may indicate the need for blood work. These include unexplained fatigue, unexplained weight loss or gain, frequent infections, persistent pain or discomfort, changes in appetite, and abnormal bleeding or bruising. If you have any specific health concerns or are experiencing persistent symptoms, it is recommended to consult with a healthcare provider who can determine if blood testing is necessary. How Do I Choose the Right Lab for Discounted Blood Work? When choosing a lab for discounted blood work, it is important to consider factors such as the lab's accreditation, reputation, and quality assurance practices. Look for labs that have reputable organization accreditation and good customer reviews. Additionally, consider the convenience of the lab's location and the availability of discounted testing options in the Houston area. Testing.com provides a comprehensive list of accredited laboratories and testing centers in Houston, making it easier to choose the right lab for your discounted blood work needs.

Key Highlights Discover the importance of testosterone testing and its impact on men's health. Explore a curated selection of reputable online labs offering competitive prices. Learn insider tips to save money, including promotional codes and leveraging insurance. Find answers to frequently asked questions about testosterone testing and its significance. Understand the value of DiscountedLabs.com for affordable and convenient testing options. Get insights into interpreting your test results and discussing them with a healthcare provider. Introduction In men's health, knowing your testosterone levels is very important. A basic testosterone blood test, also known as the T test, measures this key sex hormone. It can give you helpful information about your overall health and well-being, and plays a crucial role in diagnosing and treating hormonal imbalances like low testosterone (male hypogonadism) and monitoring hormone replacement therapy, such as testosterone therapy. As men get older, testosterone levels often go down, which can cause health problems. This blog will introduce you to the importance of testosterone testing and the men’s health test price online. It will give you the knowledge you need to make good choices about your health with the guidance of a health care provider. Top Picks for Best Testosterone Test Prices Online Finding a cheap and trustworthy testosterone test is easier than you might expect. Many online labs now offer fair prices and easy testing options. These labs let you order tests online and then go to a nearby lab to give a sample. We will look at some of the best options for testosterone test prices online. We will think about things like cost, ease of use, and expert ratings. Also, we will share tips for finding a good and reliable provider for your testosterone testing needs. Where to Find the Best Prices for Testosterone Tests When you want to find the best testosterone test price online, it's important to compare prices from different labs. This means looking at the total costs, which includes the test price, shipping fees, and any extra charges. Good online labs usually share clear pricing information on their websites, making it easy to compare. Additionally, be sure to check if the lab offers a secure online portal for accessing your test results, as this can provide convenience and peace of mind. It is also important to consider the quality of the lab and their laboratory tests, as accurate and reliable results are crucial for making informed decisions about your health. Here are the prices for the "Testosterone, Free (Equilibrium Dialysis) and Total, MS" test from different labs: DiscountedLabs.com: $45.15 minus coupon: 10percentoff = $ 40.63 Ulta Lab Tests: $ 59 WalkinLabs: $68 PrivateMDLabs: $85   Keep in mind that just choosing the lab with the lowest price may not be the best way to go. Check for labs that are certified, follow privacy rules, and have good reviews from customers. 2. DiscountedLabs.com: Unbeatable Deals and Offers on Testosterone Tests DiscountedLabs.com is a leader in offering affordable testosterone tests. The website makes it easy for you to find and compare different testosterone test options and prices. They work with certified labs, so you can trust the accuracy of your test results. What makes DiscountedLabs.com unique is its focus on keeping costs low. The site often has special deals, discounts, and package offers, making it easier for more people to get testosterone tested. If you have a healthcare provider who uses a certain lab, DiscountedLabs.com can help you with that, too, so your testing is hassle-free. By focusing on convenience and low prices, DiscountedLabs.com helps people take charge of their health and understand their testosterone levels better. 3. Specialized Testosterone Test Packages for Varied Needs Understanding testosterone testing can feel confusing. But, many online labs now offer special test packages just for you. This personalized approach makes the testing easier and helps you get the right information. For example, if you worry about low testosterone, some labs provide packages that include a total testosterone test. These packages may also have other important hormone tests, like free testosterone and sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG). Together, they give a better look at your hormone levels, including free testosterone levels. This helps healthcare providers make smart decisions and suggest the right treatments from specialized testing centers, such as specialty testing laboratories within the national network of primary clinical laboratories that perform regular quality assurance testing. 4. Insider Tips on Finding Promotional Codes and Discounts Saving money on testosterone tests is possible. Smart shoppers can use different ways to lower the costs of keeping track of their health. Here are some helpful tips to find promo codes and discounts for testosterone tests: Sign up for Lab Newsletters: Online labs often send exclusive deals and promo codes to their email subscribers. Follow on Social Media: Discounted Labs shares discounts and special offers on Facebook. Check Health Insurance: Sometimes, your health insurance might cover part or all of the cost of testosterone testing if it is needed for medical reasons. Using these money-saving tips can make testosterone testing easier. This way, you can focus on your health without spending too much. 5. Understanding the Value of Bundle Testing Options For people who want to keep track of their testosterone levels over a long period of time, bundling testing options using panels can save them money. Online labs usually give you lower prices when you buy several tests at once. This is especially helpful if you will need regular testosterone tests, like if you are on hormone replacement therapy. Here are other testosterone-related panels available on Discounted Labs: Testosterone (T+F), Estradiol and DHT Panel Testosterone (T+F), Hematocrit, Ultra Sensitive Estradiol and Prolactin Panel Testosterone (Total + Free), Ultrasensitive Estradiol & Hematocrit Testosterone + LH + FSH Panel Testosterone, Free (Equilibrium Dialysis) and Total, MS Testosterone, Free, Bioavailable and Total (With Lower & Upper Limit) plus SHBG Testosterone, SHBG, Hematocrit, Sensitive Estradiol and PSA Testosterone, Thyroid and Estradiol Panel Testosterone, Total ( LC/MS), Free T (Equilibrium Dialysis), Bioavailable T, and SHBG Testosterone, Total and Free (NO Upper Limit) plus Hematocrit Pre- TRT MALE Hormone / Wellness Panel TRT Basic Monitoring Panel TRT MALE Hormone/Wellness Follow Up Panel Buying in bulk (also called bundling) not only lowers the cost for each test but also makes it easier because you don’t have to place separate orders each time. It is a good option for people who want to stay on top of their health. But remember to check the expiration dates of the test kits when you buy in bulk. By thinking about your needs and the savings from bulk testing, you can make smart choices about how to manage your budget for testosterone monitoring. Why Testosterone Levels Matter for Men Testosterone is mostly known as the male sex hormone. However, it does much more than just impact sexual health. It also helps with muscle growth, bone density, mood, and brain function. For men of all ages, keeping testosterone levels healthy is key to overall well-being. When testosterone levels are off balance, it can cause various changes. These changes can be physical, emotional, or mental. It's important to recognize the signs and symptoms of low testosterone. This way, you can get medical help and look into possible treatments. The Critical Role of Testosterone in Male Health Testosterone is the main male sex hormone. It helps many important functions in a man's body. Besides its known role in sex drive and sperm production, testosterone also affects muscle mass, bone density, and red blood cell production. It is important to keep healthy testosterone levels. This helps with strong bones, better muscle growth and strength, and keeps energy levels up. Testosterone, a vital sex hormone in those assigned male at birth, is also a key hormone for mood, thinking, and heart health, as well as fat distribution in the body. In men, testosterone helps regulate sex drive and erectile function, muscle mass and strength, body fat distribution, bone density, and production of red blood cells and sperm. Low levels of testosterone or “low T,” may cause a variety of health challenges and changes to your overall health and physical appearance. As men get older, their testosterone levels drop. This can lead to lower sex drive, less muscle mass, and more tiredness. Understanding how testosterone affects male health is crucial. It shows why men should check their levels and get help from experts if there are any issues. Signs and Symptoms of Low Testosterone Levels Low testosterone, known as hypogonadism, can show up in different ways. It can affect your body and mind. Common signs include a lower sex drive, problems with erections, less muscle mass, and feeling more tired. Men with low testosterone might also see changes in their body, like more body fat and weaker bones. This condition can also affect feelings and thoughts, causing mood swings, irritability, trouble focusing, and sleep issues. It's important to notice these signs as possible signs of low testosterone. If you see any of these symptoms, it's good to talk to a healthcare professional about testing and treatment options. Long-Term Health Implications of Imbalanced Testosterone Maintaining balanced hormone levels is important for your health and well-being. Testosterone is the main male sex hormone. It plays a key role in many body functions. If its levels are too low, it can lead to serious long-term health problems. Low testosterone levels can increase the risk of health issues like heart disease, osteoporosis, type 2 diabetes, and metabolic syndrome. They can also lead to mood problems, sleep issues, and problems with thinking. Managing testosterone levels is important. Regular check-ups, changes in lifestyle, and the right medical help can lower the chances of these health issues. This can also improve your overall quality of life. Differences, Advantages, and Disadvantages of Different Testosterone Tests 1. At-Home Testosterone Kits   - Collection Method: At-home testosterone kits typically involve collecting a blood or saliva sample using a finger prick or saliva swab.   - Advantages:    - Convenience: At-home testosterone kits provide the convenience of testing testosterone levels from the comfort of your own home.    - Privacy: Some individuals may prefer the privacy of conducting the test at home.   - Disadvantages:     - Limited Accuracy: At-home testosterone kits may have limitations in terms of accuracy and reliability compared to tests conducted in a clinical setting.    - Lack of Professional Interpretation: Results from at-home kits may not come with professional interpretation, requiring individuals to seek medical advice for proper understanding and guidance. 2. Saliva Testosterone Test   - Collection Method: Saliva testosterone tests involve collecting a saliva sample using a swab or collection device.   - Advantages:    - Non-Invasive: Saliva testosterone tests are non-invasive and can be easily self-administered.    - Convenient: Saliva samples can be collected at any time and do not require a blood draw.   - Disadvantages:    - Limited Availability: Saliva testosterone tests may not be as widely available as blood tests.    - Potential Variability: Saliva testosterone levels may not always accurately reflect total testosterone levels in the blood. 3. LC/MS/MS Total Testosterone Test   - Collection Method: The LC/MS/MS (Liquid Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry) total testosterone test requires a blood sample typically collected from a vein in the arm.   - Advantages:    - High Accuracy: LC/MS/MS is considered a highly accurate method for measuring total testosterone levels.    - No Upper or Lower Limit: Unlike the immunoassay testosterone test, the LC/MS testosterone test is accurate at very low or very high testosterone blood levels.   - Widely Accepted: LC/MS/MS is a commonly used method in clinical settings for testosterone testing.   - No interference by supplements like biotin.   - Disadvantages:     - Requires a Blood Draw: Some individuals may find the process of having blood drawn uncomfortable or inconvenient.    - Laboratory Processing Time: Results from LC/MS/MS tests may take longer to obtain compared to rapid tests. 4. Immunoassay-Based Testosterone Test   - Collection Method: Immunoassay-based testosterone tests also require a blood sample, typically collected from a vein in the arm.   - Advantages:    - Rapid Results: Immunoassay-based tests can provide relatively quick results.    - Cost-Effective: Immunoassay-based tests are generally more cost-effective compared to LC/MS/MS tests .  - Disadvantages:    - Potential for Interference: Immunoassay-based tests may be susceptible to interference from certain substances or conditions, potentially affecting accuracy.    - Lower Sensitivity: Immunoassay-based tests may have lower sensitivity compared to LC/MS/MS tests. It is important to note that the choice of testosterone test should be made in consultation with a healthcare professional. They can guide you in selecting the most appropriate test based on your specific needs, medical history, and the accuracy and reliability of the available testing methods. How to Choose the Right Testosterone Test for You Choosing the right testosterone test depends on your needs and talking with a healthcare provider. Your medical history, symptoms, and the possible cause of hormonal issues are important in selecting the best test. A good first step is the total testosterone test. This test checks the total amount of testosterone in your blood. If the first results show any issues, a free testosterone test might be suggested. Free testosterone is the active part of the hormone that your body can use easily. Working together with your healthcare provider helps in picking a testosterone test. This way, you can get the best information to help with your health concerns. The Importance of Accuracy and Reliability in Test Results When you get testosterone tested, it is very important to have test results that are accurate and reliable. If the results are wrong, it can cause misdiagnoses, lead to bad treatment plans, and create unnecessary stress. You should pick testing providers that care about quality control. If you use at-home testing kits, carefully follow the instructions. Proper sample collection is key to reducing mistakes. Talk about any worries regarding test accuracy and reliability with your healthcare provider. They can help you understand your results and suggest trusted testing facilities, if necessary. Before You Buy: Understanding Testosterone Tests Beginning the journey of testosterone testing means you need to understand what these tests are and why they matter for men's health. Testosterone tests check the amount of testosterone in the blood. This hormone plays a key role in male sexual growth and function. Before getting a test, it is important to know the different types of testosterone tests. You should also understand what information they can provide and what things might affect test results. Deciphering Test Results: Free Testosterone vs. Total Testosterone Interpreting testosterone test results means knowing the difference between free testosterone and total testosterone. Total testosterone shows the overall amount of testosterone, while free testosterone shows the part that is active and works in the body. A normal range for total testosterone in adult males is usually between 300 and 1,000 nanograms per deciliter (ng/dL). This range can change a bit based on the lab. Free testosterone usually makes up about 2% of total testosterone. When looking at test results, it is important to think about both free and total testosterone levels. You should also consider your age, your overall health, and any symptoms you may have. A healthcare provider can help you understand your results and decide on the next steps. Preparing for Your Testosterone Test: Do's and Don'ts To get accurate and reliable testosterone test results, you need to follow certain preparation steps. These steps help reduce the effect of things outside your control that might change the results. Here’s a list of do's and don’ts to remember: Do's: Schedule the test for the morning. This is when testosterone levels are usually at their highest. Follow the fasting rules for testosterone testing. Breakfast can temporarily reduce testosterone levels, leading to misleading test results. Don'ts: Avoid heavy exercise. Hard workouts can raise testosterone levels for a short time. Don't drink alcohol. Alcohol can affect hormone levels and change the results. By following these tips, you can help ensure that your testosterone test shows the true state of your hormones. This will help you make better health choices. When to Consider Retesting: Timing and Frequency The time for testosterone testing depends on your situation and why you were first tested. If you had testing done to find a specific issue or to check how well treatment is working, your healthcare provider might suggest regular retesting. If your testosterone levels are normal and you have no major symptoms, you may not need to retest right away. Still, checking periodically is a good idea, especially as men get older. This helps keep track of any changes in hormones and can help catch issues early. Changes in your lifestyle, medications, or new symptoms could mean you need to test again. It's important to talk to your healthcare provider about a plan just for you. This way, you can take the best steps to keep your hormonal health in good shape. Interpreting Your Testosterone Test Results: A Comprehensive Guide Understanding testosterone test results involves looking at many factors that can affect hormone levels. It's important to talk to a healthcare provider for accurate reading and advice that suits you. Labs usually give a reference range for normal testosterone levels. These ranges might be a little different from one lab to another. Also, your personal situation plays a part in determining what levels are best for you. Factors such as age, overall health, medications, and any symptoms matter when thinking about what your results mean. It is important to note that test results are interpreted in the context of your specific health situation, and your doctor may recommend repeat testing or additional tests to learn more about what may be causing your symptoms and/or the change in your testosterone level and potential medical conditions, such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Your healthcare provider will look at these factors along with your test results to check for any hormone issues. Next Steps: Managing Low or High Testosterone Levels Once you get your testosterone test results, what you do next depends on whether your levels are normal or not. If your levels are outside the normal range, your healthcare provider will suggest a plan made just for you. If you have low testosterone levels, testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) might be a good choice. TRT adds testosterone to your body using different methods like injections, gels, patches, or pellets. Sometimes, treating other health issues like obesity, diabetes, or thyroid problems can boost testosterone production. How to Find a Good Testosterone Doctor. Maximizing Savings on Testosterone Tests Taking care of your health doesn't have to cost a lot. There are many ways to save money on testosterone tests and still get good quality and accurate results. You can start by knowing what your insurance covers. You can also look into other testing choices. By taking charge of your testing costs, you can focus on your health while keeping an eye on your budget. Leveraging Health Insurance and HSA/FSA Accounts Maximizing your health insurance benefits and using tax-advantaged accounts like Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) or Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) can help you save money on testosterone testing. Before you have any tests done, check your health insurance policy or speak to your provider. This will help you find out if testosterone tests are covered. Some plans may cover everything for diagnostic reasons, while others might require you to pay part of the cost or meet a deductible. If you have an HSA or FSA, you can often use that money to pay for eligible costs, including testosterone testing. This can further lower your out-of-pocket expenses. By knowing how to use these financial tools well, you can make healthcare easier to access. Conclusion In conclusion, it is important to maintain balanced testosterone levels for the health and well-being of men. There are many online options for testosterone testing. You should look through them to find the best one for your needs. Keeping track of your test results can help you manage any imbalances effectively. When choosing a testosterone test provider, consider things like accuracy, reliability, and cost. By staying informed and active about your testosterone levels, you can improve your overall health. Start exploring the various testosterone testing options online for a better journey toward health. Frequently Asked Questions What is the average cost of a testosterone test online? The cost of a testosterone test online can change quite a bit. Usually, prices are between $49 and $200. This depends on the lab, the type of test, and any extra services offered. To understand the prices in your area better, it's a good idea to talk to your healthcare provider or look at online lab websites. How often should I check my testosterone levels? The amount of testosterone testing needed varies from person to person. It depends on your health and specific situation. Your healthcare provider can help you decide how often to get retested. They will consider things like your age, symptoms, and any health issues you may have. Can I trust the accuracy of online testosterone tests? The accuracy of online testosterone tests can change based on the provider and the type of test. Choose reliable online labs that work with certified labs and focus on quality. For extra comfort, talk about your test results with your healthcare provider. Are there any risks involved with testosterone testing? Testosterone testing is safe, whether you do it in a lab or with an at-home kit. There can be small risks, like bruising, bleeding, or infection, where the sample collection happens. These issues are rare and usually not serious. If you have any worries, talk to your healthcare provider.

Nelson Vergel, author of Testosterone: A Man's Guide (Amazon.com) and founder of ExcelMale.com and DiscountedLabs.com, talks about what he thinks are the 10 most important things that all men on testosterone replacement therapy should know to maximize benefits and minimize side-effects. For questions for Nelson, please register on ExcelMale.com and post them on the forum page. For more detailed information about what blood test parameters are important to monitor while on testosterone replacement therapy, read: Testosterone Replacement Blood Test Targets and Their Management For blood tests to buy to monitor your testosterone replacement, check these lab test panels: Pre TRT Lab Test Panel TRT MALE Hormone/Wellness Follow Up Panel   Find out more about testosterone replacement therapy and what tests to perform   Video Transcript:   Hi everybody. Nelson Vergel with ExcelMale.com. Somebody gave me a really good idea on ExcelMale.com. It's a forum of over 14,000 members. We discuss everything related to testosterone replacement, nutrition, exercise, supplements, and other options like Trimix, hCG, and estradiol, et cetera. Somebody asked me, "Nelson, why don't you do a video of Nelson's Top 10 TRT Commandments?" And this is what I'm doing today. So, I'm going to include the different observations and suggestions I have after reading over 40,000 posts over the last three years on ExcelMale.com.   Testosterone is not a magic bullet.   The first one is testosterone is not a magic bullet, and I remind guys who have high expectations when they start testosterone replacement because they have low testosterone that things may improve in many ways, like improvements in sexual function and sex drive, energy, cognitive function, et cetera. But sometimes they may not improve as much as you expect because there are many factors involved, especially in sexual function, libido, and desire. I have another presentation or lecture that I did on the subject, so you can check it out on ExcelMale.com, or on the YouTube channel, also named ExcelMale.com. But there are over 12 factors involved in the sexual desire in men. Testosterone is one of them, obviously, so fixing the low testosterone issue tends to improve things in that department. However, if you're not sleeping well, if you have excessive weight, if you're drinking too much, if you have some illnesses like diabetes or cardiovascular disease, and if you're taking medications that may influence sex drive and erectile function like blood pressure medications, antidepressants, et cetera, you may not get all the benefits that one would expect from testosterone. So, check out that video, and I will get into more details on that subject.   Do not obsess about estradiol.   The second one is the second commandment: do not obsess about estradiol. Estradiol has become the hottest topic of discussion in men's health forums, and it's a topic that is filled with misconceptions and a lot of speculative information. We have data that shows that estradiol is a very important hormone in men. It is produced from the aromatization of testosterone into estradiol by aromatase enzyme in the liver and in fat cells. The body actually produces it for a good reason. There's a good reason why nature put estradiol downstream of testosterone. We need estradiol for bone health, cognitive health, sexual function, and drive, and even keeping good body composition and cardiovascular health.   A lot of men tend to freak out when they start testosterone and they think everything is related, all the side effects are related to high estradiol. Biggest problem I see is that very few men are actually testing their estradiol. Doctors are not monitoring estradiol levels, and if they are, they're using the wrong tests. They're using the immunoassay instead of the liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry assay. The former basically overestimates estradiol. Secondly, water retention and/or nipple sensitivity may have nothing to do with estradiol blood levels. So, men are jumping into starting treatment with an AI, when in fact their estradiol is under 40 picograms per milliliter, and they don't really need to be taking it.   Many crash their estradiol blood levels under 20 mg and they started losing sex drive and they start even getting fatter, because it's being studied in research that that's the case. So, do not obsess about estradiol. Estradiol is not an evil hormone. Estradiol is in our body for a reason. Do not over treat with anastrozole. I'm telling doctors, be very careful. They are giving people high doses, over 1mg a week of anastrozole to men. I'm also really concerned that many clinics out there, and I hope they're listening to me, are starting men on anastrozole at baseline when the fact is, they should have waited or they should way until follow up, after six or eight weeks follow up, and test the men's estradiol after they start testosterone replacement. And then, and only then, determine whether or not they have high estradiol over 40.   And as our testosterone blood levels increase, so does estradiol. Only 0.4% of testosterone becomes estradiol, so it's only logical that we should have higher estradiol when we have obviously higher testosterone levels because of injections or gels or creams or pellets. So that's my biggest concern out there. Estradiol is not an evil hormone and we need it. Do not obsess. Do not put all your ... do not blame it on all the side effects, especially if you're not testing the blood levels.   Monitor your hematocrit.   Your hematocrit. Monitor your hematocrit, is number three, very closely during the first six to eight months. Hematocrit is the proportion of the blood, the blood volume, that is made up of red blood cells. Testosterone replacement increases the production of red blood cells, which is a good thing if you have anemia. However, overproduction of red blood cells and an increase of hematocrit obviously, can increase the viscosity of the blood, and that can lead to cardiovascular risks and events. So, doctors pretty much monitor this parameter using a very cheap panel called the CBC, the cells and chemistry, cell count and chemistry profile. Very cheap. I think you can buy it on discountedlabs.com for $29, and that includes hematocrit. As your hematocrit starts climbing up closer to 52, it is time for you to go and donate blood at a blood center. What I'm seeing, I'm seeing a few problems there. I'm seeing men waiting too long so they get to 53, 54 in hematocrit and they get rejected for donations because the Red Cross and different blood centers have a limit of 53. So do not wait too long, otherwise you are not going to be able to donate blood for free.   If you do wait that long and your hematocrit is 53, 54, 55, whatever,. I've seen guys walking around with a 65, which is crazy. That's when doctors don't monitor that. Very upsetting. Anyway, if you get to those high levels, you're rejected by the nation and you will need an order from your doctor, like a prescription. Your doctor calls in any blood center and you may have to pay for the phlebotomy. It's called a therapeutic phlebotomy. You would probably have to pay. Many centers charge over $100. So, do not wait too long. Do not donate blood or do therapeutic phlebotomies more frequently than every three months, because that has been shown to decrease iron levels and ferritin, which may make you fatigued. So, if you are by any chance one of those unlucky men that really produces a lot of red blood cells, you may have your doctor check your iron or ferritin after you donate blood. If they are low, you can take an iron supplement for a few weeks until it's normalized.   The high hematocrit issue does not happen to everybody. Most men have a bump around three to four points higher. Most of the time, hematocrit stabilizes after 18 months. For instance, I've been using testosterone for over 34 years, and I've only donated blood once, and usually it's within the first six months that you know whether or not your hematocrit will be increasing. After six months, chances are... unless you increase the dose of testosterone, obviously, that you will stay pretty much stable there. So, it's not a long-term concern.   Inject testosterone using easier methods: subcutaneous or shallow IM.   Okay, the next commandment is exploring easier ways to inject, subcutaneously, shallowly, or IM, which is shallow intramuscular injections. The old way of injecting testosterone with a big old syringe of one and a half inches on your glutes or quads is pretty much gone. There is no need to suffer through painful injections with big needles anymore. We have good data that shows that subcutaneous injections under the skin with a very tiny, half-inch, 27-gauge, or even 29-gauge syringe are enough to get the body to absorb and get the blood levels up. So, there is no need to suffer. I inject in the shoulders at 90 degrees with a 27-gauge, one-inch... I'm sorry, half-inch syringe, and it's basically painless. Also, inject twice a week instead of injecting once a week. We are moving from the world where doctors were prescribing testosterone at 200 mg every two weeks to 100 to 150 mg, depending on the blood levels that you need, every week to 50 to 75 mg every two weeks. So, there are clinics that are prescribing it once a week, but there's nothing wrong with that. I really believe so. But many clinics are now splitting the dosage in two and also bringing in something called hCG, which I will talk about.   So, do not suffer. Do not dwell anymore with big needle syringes. You can inject under the skin. You can inject shallow, at half an inch, anywhere in the quads, delts, or even the glutes. And that will basically ensure that most of us adhere to a long-term therapy like testosterone replacement. As you all know, testosterone replacement is a long-term commitment—a lifetime commitment. Never cycle testosterone on and off.   The next commandment is obviously to never cycle testosterone replacement on and off. This is a lifetime commitment. If you stop testosterone replacement, your blood levels will crash. You will not produce testosterone for a while. People tend to email me to ask me how many weeks they're going to be in that situation. It is impossible to predict, impossible to predict. Some studies on bodybuilders have shown that it takes probably as long as you were on testosterone to get back to your baseline. Remember, all of us who started testosterone replacement had low testosterone at baseline. That's why we got into testosterone replacement. So even if your body tends to readjust after a few weeks and bring you back to what you used to be, you're probably going to have low testosterone. So, that's a discussion that I don't see doctors doing very well with patients that are about to start therapy. The fact that it is a commitment. No, you're not going to die if you stop testosterone. It is true that you're going to have a rough time with low libido, energy, and cognitive function for a few weeks, but things will move on and you'll basically go back to where you used to be before testosterone. Know your TRT blood tests.   The next one is knowing your blood tests and your schedule for blood testing. Yes, your doctor is supposed to remind you when you're supposed to get blood tests done, but it's not brain science; it's not rocket science. On ExcelMale.com, on discountedlabs.com, which is my company, my lab test company, you can get tests online anywhere in the United States, with exception to New York State, New Hampshire, and Massachusetts. Basically,  the northeastern states have passed legislation to limit options for consumers there, but in most states, you can go to discountedlabs.com, order your test there, pay by credit card or PayPal, and then we will email you the results after five to seven days when you give your blood at the lab or location closer to you.   You can check the scheduling for testosterone blood testing and monitoring on ExcelMale.com, also through one of my videos that I made on that subject, and also on the blog page of discountedlabs.com. But know, at least, that you have to have certain blood levels tested at baseline. The doctor will probably have you come in six to eight weeks later, just to see if a dosage is good enough for you. We'll ask you about all your symptoms to see if they're getting better. They may check not only hematocrit, estradiol, or other hormones but also see whether you need a readjustment or treatment with anastrozole, like I said before. So, it is also important to tell the doctor when you got your blood test done, your blood draw, because some guys forget that you should be getting your blood drawn right before your next injection. I'm talking about injections. Gels and creams are different because, since we're using the same dosage every day, it doesn't really matter when you get the blood drawn.   Do not change more than one variable at a time. The next one is do not change more than one variable at a time, and I do remind everybody on ExcelMale. We are all kind of our own guinea pigs. Everybody has to experiment on themselves. Every time we start something, we can change the dosage, the frequency, or other things, but we cannot change more than one variable if you want to measure the impact of that change on your quality of life. And that's one of the biggest problems I'm seeing. Some guys start changing things around and then they forget what worked and what didn't. I know it's a basic concept, but we all get very impatient, and that's another thing I'm seeing: the expectations are not well-described by doctors at baseline. So, we start changing things around without telling the doctor, and then obviously everybody's lost. You and the doctor are lost.   So, one variable at a time. It takes a while to do that. To be a good guinea pig with good experimentation, good dosage adjustment, et cetera, it takes a while. It takes like six months average to get to that point where you say, "Okay, I'm pretty much in the dosage I need to be, frequency I need to be, anastrozole dosage if I need, hCG," which I'll be speaking about hCG, et cetera, et cetera. So, don't be impatient. I know most of us who are getting onto testosterone replacement are a little desperate. We are not feeling that great; our relationships are hurting because of sexual dysfunction or things like that, and we need a quick fix. It is not a quick fix. It takes a while, but generally, you will have good results if you do it well   You can’t change what you don’t measure.   The next one is that you can't change what you can't measure. I remind people, even I forget how I felt last week. And when you're going to the doctor, you haven't seen the doctor in eight weeks or 12 weeks, and the doctor asks you how you have been feeling? You're pretty much are going to say how you've been feeling the past few days, since you remember that. So, I kept that in mind and we created an app, available on the Apple Store or on Google Play, called TRT Analyzer. That app basically sends you a text message or a message during the day to ask you how you felt, and there are different variables like fatigue, exercise intensity, libido, if you had a morning erection, et cetera. And then you can graph. Inside the app, there's a graphing option and you can actually email the graphs to your doctor, even print them, and bring them to your next office visit. That will show basically what happened in the last 12 weeks or eight weeks that you haven't seen the doctor.   So, doctors love it because it helps them. It helps them. They actually score with the graph on every single parameter. So TRT Analyzer. Download it for free. There's been over 600 downloads this month, so we're very happy. Another site that I created is called myhealthgraphs.com. Myhealthgraphs.com. We'll probably be changing it into an app too. But it's a website. It's not an app. It's a website where you can add your blood test results, whatever you're following: testosterone, estradiol, hematocrit, et cetera, and it will also plot values for your doctor to see too. Doctors are busy. Doctors need people who save them time. Doctors tend to treat patients that save them time better than those that do not save them time. Doctors are human beings. They are really busy with a lot of pressure, and we walk into a doctor's office expecting the doctor to remember everything we told them last time. Even though it's written, some of them don't even have time to read the notes that they made from last time.   So, be a good patient and monitor everything; chart everything. Bring your reports on how you feel to the doctor. Believe me, you're going to get treated better than those who do not. The same doctor can treat two different patients differently just based on that behavior. I wish I had data to show, but it's my speculation.   Protect your testicles.   The next commandment is protecting your testicles, fertility, and upstream hormones. Talk to your doctor about hCG, or human chorionic gonadotropin. I made a video also on hCG, so check it out also on ExcelMale.com or the ExcelMale YouTube channel. But the thing about testosterone replacement when we started was that our testicle Leydig cells shut down. They don't produce testosterone anymore and they also start decreasing their production of sperm and our fertility gets really impacted, especially if we are obviously looking forward to having another kid with your wife or your girlfriend. So, that's a concern. Many doctors wrongly make patients stop testosterone replacement when they want to have a kid, which is a horrible thing to do. Instead, we have now some data from Baylor College of Medicine, Lipshult’s team, that shows that using testosterone and hCG together can prevent not only the atrophy of the testicles, or the shrinkage of the testicles, but also improve fertility.   Lately, we have gotten some data on the fact that hCG can reactivate all the hormones that are upstream of testosterone that were shut down by testosterone replacement. Testosterone replacement is obviously a good thing to do, but it shuts down LH, FSH, pregnenolone, progesterone, and even DHEA in many cases. So, all those hormones upstream tend to be reactivated by the effect of hCG. I'm going to get into many details on that because I have a video in which, actually, I think I drew a diagram on a whiteboard so that you can understand more of what I am trying to say. Because a lot of doctors say, "No, I don't prescribe hCG. I think there's no use for that," and I think after you watch that video, you will be able to negotiate with your doctor about the use of hCG in a much more educated fashion.   Don’t stay behind on TRT advances.   The next commandment is: don't stay behind on advances. Actually, that's the last commandment—the 10th one. And this is an evolving field—testosterone replacement and men's health in general. We don't only talk about testosterone on ExcelMale.com. We talk about thyroid hormones, about DHEA, about pregnenolone and progesterone, about supplements, about exercise, about, you name it, diet, even some cognitive practices, et cetera. It's really amazing how many studies are coming through every week, and even for me, I read everything that I can every day. Even before going to bed, I print out a few papers. Even for me, it's hard to keep up, and I know that if I'm not staying current, I may be missing things that are coming through in the field and obviously will not be able to help others with my information. But don't stay behind on advances. Register on ExcelMale.com and learn more, because an educated patient pretty much gets a lot better care.   So, thank you so much for watching this video.  Subscribe to the ExcelMale YouTube channel and register on ExcelMale.com. Thank you.    

The Importance of PSA Testing The Prostate-specific antigen or PSA test is a blood test that can be used as a measurement of prostate health. According to a March 2009 European study published in the New England Journal of Medicine (1), the PSA test is not only a valid screening test for prostate cancer but could also significantly reduces mortality from this disease in middle-aged men. Table of Contents The Importance of PSA Testing What is a PSA Test? Elevated Prostate Specific Antigen The Significance of Free PSA What if the Test Shows an Elevated PSA level? Getting Tested The PSA Controversy What is a PSA Test? The PSA test was initially approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 1986 to track the progression of prostate cancer in individuals who have been previously diagnosed with the disease. In 1994, the use of the PSA test together with a digital rectal exam (DRE) was approved by the FDA to test asymptomatic men for prostate cancer. Men who experience prostate symptoms will usually undergo a PSA test (with a DRE) to help a urologist determine what’s causing the problem. Elevated Prostate Specific Antigen Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) is a protein secreted by healthy, as well as cancerous cells in the prostate gland. A PSA test is commonly used to measure the level of this protein in someone’s blood. This test is conducted by taking a blood sample and sending it to a laboratory for analysis. PSA test results are typically recorded as nanograms of PSA per milliliter (ng/mL) of blood. In men with prostate cancer, the blood level of PSA is frequently elevated. Although research does indicate that having an elevated PSA level does not always mean that a man has prostate cancer (2). PSA levels may also become elevated because of benign enlargement of the prostate gland as well as prostatitis (inflammation of the prostate) due to infection. It’s crucial to emphasize that a PSA test is not a specific prostate cancer test, but it’s a critical first step in checking for the possible presence of prostate cancer. There are other factors that could cause your PSA levels to increase (3): Advancing age; PSA levels tend to rise with age. Inflammation of the prostate gland, from either infection or some other undetermined cause. Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH); also called an enlarged prostate. A larger prostate has more cells secreting PSA, increasing the odds for an elevated PSA level. Prostate cells could be inflamed by a Urinary tract infection, causing PSA levels to go up. Ejaculation can cause a mild elevation in the PSA score, but levels return to normal after only a few days. The recommendation is that men abstain from sex for at least 48 hours before PSA testing Anything that might cause trauma to the prostate like; bike riding, catheter insertion into the bladder, prostate biopsy, or cystoscopy can temporarily increase PSA levels. Conversely, some medicines (Proscar, Avodart, Propecia) (4) could lower your PSA. If you’re taking any of these medications, you should advise your doctor. A PSA level of less than 4.0 ng/mL is considered to be normal, but changes of more than 2.0 ng/mL over a year may indicate that prostate cancer is present (5). The Significance of Free PSA PSA circulates through the body in two ways; bound to other proteins or by itself. Unbound PSA is called free PSA. A free-PSA test will measure the percentage of unbound PSA while a PSA test is used to measure the total of free and bound PSA in the blood (6). The free PSA is a defective variant of normal PSA that can no longer bind to other proteins and so circulates in the blood in the free form. Although the reason why is poorly understood - patients with cancer may have lower free PSA levels than those with a benign prostate condition (6). What if the Test Shows an Elevated PSA level? If someone who isn’t experiencing the symptoms of prostate cancer decides to take a PSA test and discovers that he has an elevated PSA level the urologist could advise him to take another PSA test to confirm the original result. When results show that the PSA level is still elevated, the doctor could then recommend that he continue to be tested and digitally examined at regular intervals to detect changes (if any) over time (6). When the PSA level continues to rise or if a lump is detected during a digital examination, additional tests could be prescribed to discover possible causes (7). These tests can include: Urine test to check for a urinary tract infection Transrectal ultrasound X-rays Cystoscopy If the doctor suspects prostate cancer is present, then a prostate biopsy may be recommended. This procedure is used to collect multiple samples of prostate tissue by inserting hollow needles into the prostate gland and then withdrawing them. Frequently, the needles will be inserted through the wall of the rectum in a procedure called a transrectal biopsy. A pathologist then studies the collected prostate tissue with a microscope. An ultrasound may also be used to view the prostate during the biopsy, although ultrasound alone can’t be used to make a prostate cancer diagnosis. Getting Tested The accepted recommendation is that once a man reaches 40 years of age, he should begin having his prostate checked to establish a baseline for future monitoring. With a baseline set, the doctor can act quickly if PSA level changes indicate a potential problem (8). Unfortunately, many men underestimate the importance of setting a PSA baseline from a younger age. Establishing your baseline PSA level means that if there is even a small change in PSA levels - your doctor can quickly begin the necessary procedures to find out what may be causing the change and commence proper treatment if it’s indicated, possibly saving your life (9). The PSA Controversy The PSA test is not a cancer test. The test is only used to determine the level of PSA in a man’s blood. A high PSA score may indicate the presence of prostate cancer – but there are many factors that can cause PSA levels to be elevated, from infection to resent ejaculation. Another problem is that the PSA test also cannot distinguish between elevated PSA as a result of a benign cancer that will pose no threat in the course of a normal lifetime, or from the presence of an aggressive tumor that poses a much more immediate threat (10). Regardless, current research still indicates that PSA is a valid and proven marker that can be used together with other variables for determining the chance that an aggressive prostate cancer is present (10). References 1) SchröderFH,Hugosson J,Roobol MJ, et al.Screening and prostate cancer mortality in a randomized European study, N Engl J Med, 2009, vol. 360 13(pg. 1320-1328). 2) O'Shaughnessy M, Konety B, Warlick C. Prostate cancer screening: issues and controversies. Minnesota Medicine, August 2010. 3) Mayo Clinic Staff. PSA Test. (N.D.). https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/psa-test/details/risks/cmc-20200313 4) Pannek J, Marks LS, Pearson JD, Rittenhouse HG, Chan DW, Shery ED, Gormley GJ, Subong EN, Kelley CA, Stoner E, Partin AW. Influence of finasteride on free and total serum prostate specific antigen levels in men with benign prostatic hyperplasia. The Journal of Urology. 1998. 5) Carter, H. Ballentine et al. “Detection of Life-Threatening Prostate Cancer With Prostate-Specific Antigen Velocity During a Window of Curability.” Journal of the National Cancer Institute 98.21 (2006): 1521–1527. PMC. Web. 24 Nov. 2017. 6) Mione R1, Barioli P, Barichello M, Zattoni F, Prayer-Galetti T, Plebani M, Aimo G, Terrone C, Manferrari F, Madeddu G, Caberlotto L, Fandella A, Pianon C, Vianello L, Gion M. Prostate cancer probability after total PSA and percent free PSA determination. Int J Biol Markers. 1998 Apr-Jun;13(2):77-86. 7) Wilt, Timothy J et al. “Prostate Cancer: Epidemiology and Screening.” Reviews in Urology 5.Suppl 6 (2003): S3–S9. Print. 8) Larsen, Signe Benzon et al. “Baseline PSA Measurements and Subsequent Prostate Cancer Risk in the Danish Diet, Cancer and Health Cohort.” European journal of cancer (Oxford, England : 1990) 49.14 (2013): 3041–3048. PMC. Web. 24 Nov. 2017. 9) Weight, Christopher J. et al. “Men (Aged 40–49 Years) With a Single Baseline Prostate-Specific Antigen Below 1.0 ng/mL Have a Very Low Long-Term Risk of Prostate Cancer: Results From a Prospectively Screened Population Cohort.” Urology 82.6 (2013): 1211–1217. PMC. Web. 24 Nov. 2017. 10) H Ballentine Carter. Differentiation of lethal and non lethal prostate cancer: PSA and PSA isoforms and kinetics. Asian Journal of Andrology. 2012 May; 14(3): 355–360.  

Are you a bodybuilder looking to maximize your performance and ensure optimal health? Regular bodybuilding blood work is key to achieving these goals. It provides valuable insights into your body's functioning, allowing you to make informed decisions about your training, nutrition, and supplementation. In this blog, we will explore the importance of regular blood work for bodybuilders and how it can help you strike the right balance between performance and health. We'll also address common factors that can affect blood test values in bodybuilders, as well as essential lab tests that every bodybuilder should consider. Don't miss out on this valuable information that can take your bodybuilding journey to new heights. Table of Contents The Importance of Regular Bodybuilding Blood Work Maximizing Performance and Health: A Balance Ergogenic Effects Associated with Anabolic Steroids and High TRT Doses Physician Stigma About PEDs Keeps Bodybuilders From Seeking Care Factors that Affect Blood Test Values in Bodybuilders Anabolic Steroid Use Without Testosterone Can Decrease Testosterone Blood Levels Resistance Exercise Can Increase Liver Enzymes Creatine Supplementation Can Cause Artificial Decreases in Kidney Function as Measured by Creatinine Some Oral Anabolic Steroids and Supplements Can Increase Liver Enzymes and Decrease HDL cholesterol High Doses of Anabolics Can Decrease Ferritin in Bodybuilders Understanding Essential Bodybuilding Blood Work Tests Complete Blood Count (CBC) Hematocrit Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP) Lipid Test Panel Cystatin C with EGFR Kidney Test eGFR Kidney Test GGT Liver Test Total Testosterone by Liquid Chromatography/Mass Spectrometry, plus Free Testosterone by Equilibrium Ultrafiltration. Free Testosterone (Equilibrium Ultrafiltration) Test Ultra-Sensitive Estradiol (E2) Test Prolactin Test DHT Test IGF-1 Test Ferritin Test How do these tests help optimize bodybuilding performance? The role of these tests in muscle gain, fat loss, and quality of life How can bodybuilders prepare for these tests? Why is regular bodybuilding blood work essential? How to Buy Affordable Bodybuilding Blood Work on DiscountedLabs.com Conclusion   The Importance of Regular Bodybuilding Blood Work Regular bodybuilding blood work plays a crucial role in monitoring hormone levels and overall health, including high blood pressure. By conducting regular blood tests, bodybuilders can identify potential health issues before they become serious. Additionally, blood work provides valuable insights for optimizing nutrition and supplementation, leading to better performance. Tracking blood markers allows bodybuilders to make informed decisions about their training and recovery strategies. Ultimately, regular blood work is essential for long-term health and longevity in the world of bodybuilding. By staying on top of blood markers like testosterone, hormone levels, glucose, and kidney function, bodybuilders can ensure they are in optimal condition to achieve their goals. Maximizing Performance and Health: A Balance Regular monitoring of bodybuilding blood work, including testosterone tests, is crucial for bodybuilders to maximize their performance and maintain good health. Through regular blood tests, bodybuilders can monitor hormone levels, nutrient deficiencies, and overall organ function. This information is invaluable in making informed adjustments to diet, supplements, and training routines. By maintaining a balance between performance and health, bodybuilders can optimize their training and achieve their goals. Prioritizing health through regular blood work is essential for long-term success and sustainable progress in bodybuilding. It allows bodybuilders to identify any potential imbalances and make the necessary adjustments for optimal performance. By utilizing comprehensive metabolic panels, lipid panels, and hormone level tests, bodybuilders can ensure that their training is effective and their bodies are functioning optimally. Ergogenic Effects Associated with Anabolic Steroids and High TRT Doses   According to a scientific review, the use of anabolic steroids has the following ergogenic effects: ■ Increase in lean body mass ■ Increase in muscle cross-sectional area ■ Decrease in body fat percent ■ Increase muscle strength & power ■ Enhance recovery between workouts ■ Enhance recovery from injury ■ Increase in protein synthesis ■ Increase in muscle endurance ■ Increase in erythropoiesis, hemoglobin, and hematocrit ■ Increase in bone mineral density ■ Increase in glycogen storage ■ Increase in lipolysis ■ Increase in neural transmission ■ Reduced muscle damage ■ Increase in pain tolerance   However, the use of these agents could have the following side effects: Cardiovascular ■ Lipid profile changes ■ Elevated blood pressure ■ Decreased myocardial function Increased in blood viscosity due to high hematocrit Dermatological ■ Acne ■ Male pattern baldness Endocrine ■ Gynecomastia ■ Decreased sperm count ■ Testicular atrophy ■ Impotence and transient infertility Hepatic ■ Increased liver enzymes Renal Decreased kidney function Genitourinary Males ■ Reduced sperm counts ■ Decreased testicular size Females ■ Menstrual irregularities ■ Clitoromegaly ■ Masculinization Males and Females ■ Gynecomastia ■ Libido changes Physician Stigma About PEDs Keeps Bodybuilders From Seeking Care The stigma surrounding performance-enhancing drugs (PEDs) frequently makes bodybuilders reluctant to seek medical attention. Many bodybuilders are reluctant to disclose their PED use due to fear of judgment or a lack of understanding from healthcare professionals. This can impede their access to important resources such as regular blood work, which is vital for monitoring health and performance. Healthcare professionals need to be knowledgeable about the potential risks and side effects associated with PEDs in order to provide appropriate care and guidance. Open communication and support between bodybuilders and healthcare professionals can foster collaboration for optimizing performance while minimizing health risks.   Factors that Affect Blood Test Values in Bodybuilders Muscle damage and inflammation can impact blood test results in bodybuilders, as the body's response to intense training can cause temporary changes in certain blood markers. Additionally, high protein intake, which is common among bodybuilders, may affect kidney function and liver enzymes but is not clinically significant, which is concerning to doctors not familiar with this fact. Steroid use can also lead to hormonal imbalances and abnormal blood test results. Dehydration, which can occur during intense workouts or when bodybuilders are cutting weight, can cause changes in electrolyte and blood cell levels. Weight training can also increase certain live enzymes in a non-clinical way. Supplements like creatine can falsely increase serum creatinine, which can alarm certain physicians. It is important for bodybuilders to address any nutritional deficiencies identified through blood testing, as these deficiencies can impact performance and overall health. Anabolic Steroid Use Without Testosterone Can Decrease Testosterone Blood Levels Anabolic steroid use without testosterone can result in a decline in testosterone levels among bodybuilders, leading to low testosterone, or TSH. Testosterone plays a crucial role in muscle growth, recovery, and overall performance in bodybuilding. To ensure optimal health and performance, bodybuilders should regularly monitor their testosterone levels. Consulting with a healthcare professional can help them effectively manage their hormone levels. It is essential to maintain balanced testosterone levels to avoid negative side effects and maximize results. By being proactive in monitoring testosterone levels, bodybuilders can optimize their performance and achieve their desired outcomes. Resistance Exercise Can Increase Liver Enzymes Intense resistance exercise can result in temporary elevations in liver enzymes, including alkaline phosphatase, which is a normal response to muscle damage and repair. It is crucial for bodybuilders to inform their healthcare provider about their exercise routine before getting blood work done. Although elevated liver enzymes due to exercise are typically harmless and resolve on their own, regular monitoring of liver enzymes is essential for bodybuilders to ensure optimal health and performance. By keeping track of liver enzyme levels, bodybuilders can identify any abnormalities early on and take appropriate actions to maintain their liver function. Creatine Supplementation Can Cause Artificial Decreases in Kidney Function as Measured by Creatinine Creatine supplementation can temporarily decrease kidney function markers, leading to lower creatinine and potassium levels in bodybuilders. It is important for bodybuilders to inform their healthcare providers about any dietary supplements before undergoing blood tests. Once creatine supplementation is discontinued, creatinine and potassium levels can normalize. However, monitoring kidney function through multiple biomarkers is essential for an accurate assessment. By incorporating these measures, bodybuilders can ensure that their kidney function is accurately evaluated. Some Oral Anabolic Steroids and Supplements Can Increase Liver Enzymes and Decrease HDL cholesterol Certain oral anabolic steroids used by bodybuilders have the potential to increase liver enzymes and decrease HDL cholesterol levels, leading to an increase in total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein. Regular blood tests are vital for bodybuilders who use these oral steroids to monitor their impact on liver function and cholesterol levels. Elevations in liver enzymes can be a sign of liver damage, while decreased HDL cholesterol levels pose a risk for cardiovascular health. Working with a healthcare professional is essential to mitigating these potential risks associated with the use of oral anabolic steroids. By closely monitoring liver health and cholesterol levels, bodybuilders can make informed decisions about their supplementation and take necessary steps to protect their overall health. High Doses of Anabolics Can Decrease Ferritin in Bodybuilders High doses of anabolic steroids can result in decreased ferritin levels among bodybuilders, impacting their overall performance. Ferritin plays a crucial role as a protein that stores iron, and deficiencies can have negative effects on muscle growth and health. To optimize supplementation and monitor ferritin levels, regular blood tests are essential. Consulting with a healthcare professional can provide personalized guidance on maintaining optimal ferritin levels and growth hormone levels. It is important for bodybuilders to be aware of the potential impact of high doses of anabolic steroids on ferritin levels and take proactive measures to ensure balanced hormone levels and nutrition. By prioritizing the monitoring of ferritin levels, bodybuilders can support their muscle growth and overall well-being. Understanding Essential Bodybuilding Blood Work Tests Regular blood work is vital for bodybuilders to monitor their health and optimize their performance. Key lab tests for bodybuilders include hormone levels, liver function, kidney function, and thyroid function. These tests can help identify potential health issues and allow for adjustments in training and nutrition plans. Working with a healthcare professional who specializes in sports medicine or bodybuilding is beneficial to ensure an accurate interpretation of the results. By regularly monitoring hormone levels, such as testosterone and estradiol, bodybuilders can address any imbalances and make necessary adjustments to their supplementation or hormone replacement therapy. Additionally, liver function tests like ALT and AST can assist in identifying any liver abnormalities or damage that may result from the use of anabolic steroids. Kidney function tests, like creatinine and BUN, are crucial for assessing the impact of intense training and supplement use on the kidneys. These lab tests provide valuable insights into a bodybuilder's health and play a crucial role in maintaining optimal performance, including CMP. Complete Blood Count (CBC) A complete blood count (CBC) test panel measures several components of your blood, including Red blood cells, which carry oxygen, White blood cells, which fight infection; hemoglobin, the oxygen-carrying protein in red blood cells; hematocrit, the proportion of red blood cells to the fluid component in your blood (which is correlated with blood thickness); and Platelets, which help with blood clotting. Hematocrit All androgens, like testosterone and AAS, can increase red blood cells and their proportion in the blood (hematocrit), increasing blood thickness (erythrocytosis). High hematocrit can cause high blood pressure, headaches, and cardiovascular risks. This panel is essential since it determines when you reach a hematocrit of 53, indicating that blood donation or therapeutic phlebotomy is needed. Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP) The comprehensive metabolic panel, or CMP panel, consists of 14 blood tests that are an initial medical screening tool to review overall health. The CMP blood test panel checks for glucose, kidney function, liver function, electrolytes, and fluid balance. Fasting IS REQUIRED. Lipid Test Panel This panel includes LDL (bad cholesterol), HDL (good cholesterol), and triglycerides (fatty acids dissolved in the blood). Higher doses of T and AAS can increase LDL and decrease HDL and triglycerides. Severely decreased HDL may cause cardiovascular issues in the long term. FASTING IS REQUIRED. Cystatin C with EGFR Kidney Test Since higher muscle mass, protein intake, and creatine supplementation can all affect creatinine as the primary variable, cystatin C is a more accurate way to assess kidney function in people with higher muscle mass. Another one of the measures of kidney function is the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR). The glomerular filtration rate describes the flow rate of filtered fluid through the kidney. Creatinine clearance rate (CCRCr or CrCl) is the volume of blood plasma that is cleared of creatinine per unit of time and is a useful measure for approximating the GFR. eGFR under 60 may indicate issues that are affecting kidney function. eGFR Kidney Test The eGFR kidney test is an important tool for bodybuilders to monitor their kidney health and ensure optimal performance. By measuring how well the kidneys are functioning, this test can help detect any potential kidney issues that may arise, affecting metabolism. It is crucial for bodybuilders to regularly check their eGFR levels, as low levels under 60 can indicate kidney damage or impaired kidney function, which can have a negative impact on performance. Maintaining a healthy eGFR level is essential for overall health and athletic performance. Consulting with a healthcare professional is recommended for interpreting eGFR results and taking the necessary steps to support kidney health. GGT Liver Test The GGT blood test looks for an enzyme, or protein, called gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase (GGT) in your blood. GGT is found in liver cells. This test helps your doctor look for damage to your liver or its ducts. It can also help tell the difference between liver and bone disease if your results from a different blood test called alkaline phosphatase are abnormal. Higher than-average test results could indicate liver damage from diseases such as hepatitis, cirrhosis, tumors, or pancreatic cancer. The good thing about GGT (unlike liver enzymes included in the CMP like AST and ALT) is that resistance exercise does not affect its value, so it is a more accurate way to detect liver disease in bodybuilders. Total Testosterone by Liquid Chromatography/Mass Spectrometry, plus Free Testosterone by Equilibrium Ultrafiltration. Men with high testosterone cannot use the regular total testosterone test based on immunoassays since it has an upper limit of 1,500 ng/dL. The LC/MS testosterone test does not have an upper limit. Also, some labs offer calculated free testosterone instead of the equilibrium ultrafiltration-based one, which is more accurate for this critical variable. Free Testosterone (Equilibrium Ultrafiltration) Test The equilibrium ultrafiltration test is a precise method used to measure the amount of unbound testosterone in the bloodstream. Free testosterone plays a crucial role in muscle growth, strength, and overall performance for bodybuilders. Monitoring free testosterone levels can provide valuable insights into potential imbalances or deficiencies that may impact training, recovery, and hormone balance. By regularly testing free testosterone, bodybuilders can optimize their training and supplement plans to maximize their performance and health. This test, along with other essential lab tests, helps bodybuilders maintain optimal hormone levels and ensure their body is functioning at its best. Ultra-Sensitive Estradiol (E2) Test The commonly used estradiol test may overestimate estradiol. That test uses immunoassay technology that cannot differentiate C-Reactive Protein (involved in inflammation) from estradiol, so it reads the combination of the two as estradiol. This ultrasensitive estradiol test is based on liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry (LC/MS), an assay technology that does not have that limitation. Furthermore, DHT analogs like oxandrolone may dramatically decrease estradiol, causing joint aches and other low estradiol issues. Note: 0.4 percent of total testosterone aromatizes to estradiol. This is the body's way of balancing testosterone's negative effect on lipids with estradiol's beneficial effect. If your total testosterone is high, so is your estradiol. Be very careful in assuming that an aromatase inhibitor is needed. For more information, click on the effect of high and low estradiol on men's health. How to predict estradiol for different testosterone doses. Prolactin Test Many bodybuilders worry about increased prolactin since it has been associated with erectile dysfunction. Regular monitoring of hormone levels is essential for bodybuilders, and the prolactin test plays a crucial role in this process. This test helps detect potential imbalances that can impact performance and overall health. Elevated prolactin levels may indicate issues such as reduced testosterone production or the presence of pituitary gland tumors. Therefore, it is vital for bodybuilders to undergo regular prolactin testing to optimize their performance and maintain their overall well-being. However, interpreting the results accurately requires consultation with healthcare professionals. By keeping prolactin levels in the optimal range, bodybuilders can enhance muscle growth, support recovery, and promote their overall physical and mental well-being. DHT Test This test measures the amount of dihydrotestosterone (DHT) in the blood. Low DHT has been associated with low libido, and high DHT has been linked to acne, hair loss, and benign prostatic inflammation in a minority of men. DHT test (LC/MS) measures dihydrotestosterone levels, a hormone linked to muscle growth and male characteristics. It helps bodybuilders evaluate hormonal balance for enhanced performance. Monitoring DHT levels provides insights into potential side effects or risks associated with supplements or steroid use. Regular testing tracks progress and informs decisions on training and supplementation. Discussing results with healthcare professionals creates personalized strategies for goals. IGF-1 Test Insulin-like Growth Factor 1, also known as IGF-1, is used as a biomarker for blood levels of human growth hormone. It is a hormone that the liver and other tissues produce that affects glucose metabolism and growth-promoting activities. Low IGF-1 may impede muscle growth. The IGF-1 test, performed using LC/MS, is a crucial tool for bodybuilders to assess their performance and overall health. This test measures the levels of insulin-like growth factor-1, a hormone that plays a vital role in muscle growth and repair. By analyzing IGF-1 levels, bodybuilders can determine whether they have optimal hormone levels for performance and recovery. Low levels of IGF-1 may indicate potential limitations in muscle growth or underlying health issues. Ferritin Test Ferritin is a protein that stores iron. Red blood cells need iron to form and carry oxygen around your body. Low levels of ferritin lead to anemia. TRT and anabolic steroids make the body make more red blood cells (erythrocytosis). This increased production decreases iron stores and ferritin. Testosterone has been shown to decrease ferritin. Men who use TRT and anabolic steroids and have high hematocrit (increased blood thickness due to TRT or anabolic steroids) frequently donate blood or undergo therapeutic phlebotomy to lower hematocrit. There is a loss of around 30 points of ferritin during every donation. Low ferritin can cause fatigue, restless leg syndrome, muscle aches, and other issues. How do these tests help optimize bodybuilding performance? Bloodwork tests play a crucial role in optimizing bodybuilding performance. They provide valuable insights into hormone levels, nutrient deficiencies, and overall health. By identifying imbalances or deficiencies, bodybuilders can make targeted adjustments to their diet and supplementation, enhancing muscle growth, recovery, and overall performance. Regular blood work helps track progress and make necessary adjustments to training and nutrition protocols. The role of these tests in muscle gain, fat loss, and quality of life Blood tests play a vital role in bodybuilding, specifically when it comes to muscle gain, fat loss, and overall quality of life. These tests provide valuable insights into hormone levels, such as testosterone and cortisol, which are crucial for optimal muscle growth and fat loss. By monitoring these blood markers, bodybuilders can optimize their recovery and prevent overtraining. Additionally, blood work can reveal any nutrient deficiencies that may be hindering progress in muscle gain or fat loss. Moreover, assessing liver and kidney function through blood tests ensures the overall health and longevity of bodybuilders. Regular blood work is essential for identifying potential health risks and allowing for timely intervention to maintain a high quality of life. How can bodybuilders prepare for these tests? To prepare for bodybuilding blood work, it's important for bodybuilders to stay hydrated, avoid strenuous exercise or heavy lifting 48 hours before the test, follow any fasting requirements given by the healthcare provider, and inform them about any supplements or medications being taken. Why is regular bodybuilding blood work essential? Regular monitoring of crucial parameters is essential for bodybuilders. It helps ensure optimal performance and overall health. By tracking hormone levels, liver function, and kidney function, bodybuilders can make informed decisions about their training, nutrition, and supplementation strategies. Regular blood work also provides a baseline for comparison and allows assessment of the effectiveness of lifestyle choices on health and performance. How to Buy Affordable Bodybuilding Blood Work on DiscountedLabs.com To buy affordable bodybuilder blood work on DiscountedLabs.com, simply visit the website and create an account. Then, search for the specific bodybuilder blood work panel you need and add it to your cart. Proceed to checkout and apply any available discount codes before completing your purchase. Bodybuilder Panels Sold by DiscountedLabs.com Bodybuilder Blood Test Panel- Basic Bodybuilder Blood Test Panel- Beginner Bodybuilder Blood Test Panel- Comprehensive Conclusion Regular bodybuilding blood work is essential for maximizing performance and maintaining good health. It helps bodybuilders identify any imbalances or potential health risks caused by their training regimen and performance-enhancing agents. Understanding the importance of these tests and regularly monitoring key parameters such as testosterone levels, kidney function, liver enzymes, and lipid profiles can help bodybuilders optimize their muscle gain, fat loss, and overall quality of life. To ensure accurate results, it is important for bodybuilders to prepare for these tests by following specific guidelines. Regular monitoring of these parameters allows bodybuilders to make adjustments to their training and nutrition plans, minimizing potential risks and improving long-term outcomes. DiscountedLabs.com offers affordable bodybuilder blood work, making it easier for individuals to access these crucial tests. Take charge of your bodybuilding journey and prioritize your health and performance with regular blood work.        

Maximize Benefits Today: Bodybuilder Blood Test Results What are the key parameters that bodybuilders should look for in their blood test results? Key parameters bodybuilders should focus on in blood test results include testosterone levels, liver function markers, kidney function markers, iron levels, and cholesterol levels. Monitoring these can help optimize performance, prevent injuries, and ensure overall health while pursuing bodybuilding goals. Bodybuilders who take testosterone and anabolic androgenic steroids (AAS) must be smart about maximizing benefits and limiting short- and long-term side effects while exercising and eating well to achieve respectable muscle gain, fat loss, and quality of life. Harm reduction is crucial, mainly when the stigma and prejudice of medical professionals act as barriers to care. However, it's important to note that training hard puts the body under a lot of stress, so it's essential to give your body enough time to recover and rebuild. Overtraining is a real risk for bodybuilders and passion and commitment to training may sometimes be the thing that prevent progress. There are 14 carefully selected lab tests and panels listed below that are vital for maintaining health while boosting strength and body composition. What Tests are Included in the Bodybuilder Blood Test Panels? Complete Blood Count (CBC) A complete blood count (CBC) test panel measures immune cells, hemoglobin, the oxygen-carrying protein in red blood cells; hemoglobin concentration, the proportion of red blood cells to fluid in your blood (called hematocrit, which correlates with blood thickness); and platelets, which help in blood clotting. All androgens, including testosterone and AAS (polycythemia), raise the percentage of red blood cells (hematocrit), which affects blood thickness. High hematocrit can result in high blood pressure, headaches, and cardiovascular risks. This panel is essential because it indicates when your hematocrit reaches 53 and you need to donate blood or undergo therapeutic phlebotomy. Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP) The complete metabolic panel (CMP panel), a preliminary medical screening tool for evaluating overall health, consists of 14 blood tests. The CMP blood test panel measures kidney, liver, glucose, electrolytes, and fluid balance levels. FASTING IS REQUIRED. Lipid Panel This panel has triglycerides, LDL (bad cholesterol), and HDL (good cholesterol) (fatty acids dissolved in the blood). Greater dosages of T and AAS can cause an increase in LDL while decreasing HDL and triglycerides. Cardiovascular issues may develop over time if HDL levels are significantly low. FASTING IS REQUIRED. EGFR and cystatin C kidney test Cystatin C is a more accurate method to evaluate renal function in people with higher muscle mass because growing muscle mass, consuming more protein, and supplementing with creatine can all change creatinine levels. Another measure of renal function is the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) and the cystatin C kidney test. The glomerular filtration rate is the rate at which fluid filters through the kidney. The creatinine clearance rate (CCRCr or CrCl), which measures the amount of blood plasma that is cleared of creatinine per unit of time, is a useful indicator of the estimated GFR. A low eGFR could indicate issues with renal function, as well as high levels of blood urea nitrogen (BUN). Accurate Liver (GGT) Test The GGT blood test looks for gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase (GGT), an enzyme or protein, in your blood. GGT is found in the liver's cells. This examination helps your doctor look for damage to the liver or the liver ducts. Alkaline phosphatase results, a separate blood test, can help distinguish between liver and bone diseases if they are abnormal. A test result that is higher than normal could be a sign of liver damage from cirrhosis, tumors, or pancreatic cancer, among other diseases. GGT is superior to liver enzymes included in the CMP, like AST and ALT, in that resistance training has no effect on its value, making it a more accurate method to diagnose liver disease in bodybuilders. Gold Standard: Total and Free Testosterone Tests Equilibrium ultrafiltration to determine free testosterone and liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry to determine total testosterone. Men with high testosterone levels cannot use the standard total testosterone test based on immunoassays since its upper limit is 1,500 ng/dL. Our testosterone test uses mass spectrometry, the most advanced and accurate testosterone test. Also, some laboratories offer computed free testosterone rather than the equilibrium ultrafiltration-based method we use, which is more accurate for this important number. Ultra-Sensitive Estradiol Testing (E2) The commonly used test may overstate estradiol. The combination of estradiol and C-Reactive Protein, which is associated with inflammation, is interpreted as estradiol by the immunoassay technique employed in that test because it is unable to differentiate between the two substances. This ultrasensitive estradiol test is based on the liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry (LC/MS) assay technique, which does not have that limitation. Furthermore, it has been demonstrated that DHT analogs like oxandrolone drastically suppress estradiol, which can lead to joint discomfort and other low estradiol issues. Interestingly, estradiol aromatization occurs in 0.4% of total testosterone. The body achieves balance by doing this to counteract the opposing effects of testosterone and estradiol on lipids. If your total testosterone is high, your estradiol will also be high. Use extreme caution when assuming that an aromatase inhibitor is necessary. For more information, please click on the effect of high and low estradiol on men's health. calculating estradiol using different testosterone dosages. Prolactin Test Many bodybuilders worry about elevated prolactin since it has been linked to erectile problems. DHT Test This test determines the amount of dihydrotestosterone (DHT) in the blood. High DHT has been linked to benign prostatic inflammation, acne, and hair loss in a small number of men. Low libido has been connected to decreased DHT. IGF-1 Test IGF-1 Test Human growth hormone levels in the blood are measured using the biomarker insulin-like growth factor 1, or IGF-1. It is a hormone that the liver and other organs produce and that affects processes supporting glucose metabolism and growth. Low IGF-1 may impede muscle growth. Ferritin Test A protein known as ferritin is where iron is kept. Iron is essential for the production of red blood cells and the distribution of oxygen throughout the body. Low amounts of ferritin cause anemia. TRT and anabolic steroids increase red blood cell production in the body (erythrocytosis). This increased production lowers ferritin levels and iron stores. Testosterone is known to cause ferritin levels to drop. Due to their high hematocrit (increased blood thickness from TRT and anabolics), men who use TRT and anabolics frequently donate blood or undergo therapeutic phlebotomy. Every donation causes a 30-point or more drop in ferritin. Low ferritin can cause fatigue, restless legs syndrome, muscle aches, and other issues. Get your bodybuilder test panel today! Bodybuilder Blood Test Guide: Are you a bodybuilder looking to keep track of your blood test results? A bodybuilder blood test can help monitor changes in hormone levels caused by the use of anabolic steroids and high doses of testosterone. But finding accurate and affordable tests can be challenging. Fortunately, DiscountedLabs offers comprehensive yet inexpensive lab tests for bodybuilders across the United States; no doctor’s visit is required. Get informed on how to prepare for a bodybuilder blood test, also known as bloodwork, and what results to expect with this helpful guide. What is a Bodybuilder Blood Test? A bodybuilder blood test is a series of tests that measure various aspects of health, such as hormone levels, cholesterol, and other markers. It can also measure the levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) in your blood, which is important for bodybuilders as high levels of cholesterol and triglycerides can increase the risk of heart disease and other health problems. The results of these tests can provide valuable insight into how to optimize your training and nutrition for better results. Overview of the Test A doctor or other healthcare professional typically orders and has a laboratory perform blood tests on bodybuilders. These tests measure different components in the blood, including hormones, electrolytes, enzymes, proteins, minerals, and vitamins. Depending on what type of test you get done, it will determine which specific biomarkers are tested for, especially if you are taking any dietary supplements. Benefits of the Test The primary benefit of getting a bodybuilder blood test is gaining insight into your overall health status, including general health, so you can make informed decisions about optimizing your diet and exercise routine for maximum gains in muscle mass and strength. Additionally, these tests can also reveal any potential deficiencies or imbalances that could be hindering progress toward achieving fitness goals. Finally, they may uncover any underlying medical issues that need further investigation from a physician before continuing with an intense workout program or taking certain supplements/medications without proper guidance from an expert healthcare professional first. Types of Tests Available How to Prepare for a Bodybuilder Blood Test? Pre-Test Instructions: Before taking a bodybuilder blood test, it is important to follow the instructions provided by your doctor or healthcare provider. These may include avoiding certain medications and supplements for a period of time before the test, as well as fasting for 8 to 12 hours prior to having your blood drawn. It is also important to inform your doctor about any recent illnesses or medical procedures you have had in order to ensure accurate results. Fasting Requirements: Fasting is an essential part of preparing for a bodybuilder blood test. This means not eating or drinking anything other than water for at least 8 hours before the test. During this time, it is best to avoid strenuous physical activity and alcohol consumption in order to get accurate results from the tests. The CMP test and the lipid panel require fasting for at least 8 hours. Certain medications can interfere with bodybuilder blood tests, so it is important to inform your doctor about all prescription and over-the-counter drugs you are taking before getting tested. Your doctor may recommend that you stop taking some medications temporarily while waiting for the results of your tests in order to ensure accuracy. Additionally, if you take vitamins or herbal supplements regularly, be sure to let your doctor know so they can advise whether these should be avoided prior to testing as well. Preparing for a bodybuilder blood test? Make sure to fast 8-12 hours, avoid strenuous activity & alcohol, and inform your doctor about any medications or supplements you take. #bodybuilding #bloodtest Click to Tweet Understanding the Results of a Bodybuilder Blood Test This type of test can help diagnose medical conditions related to hormone imbalances or deficiencies, as well as monitor progress during bodybuilding training. It’s important to understand what each component measures and how it affects your health before undergoing this type of testing. Common Abnormalities Detected in Tests: A bodybuilder blood test typically includes measurements for testosterone, estrogen, cortisol, thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1), albumin/globulin ratio (AGR), and luteinizing hormone (LH). High or low levels of any one of these components may indicate an underlying medical condition, such as hypogonadism or hyperthyroidism. Other abnormalities that may be detected, highlighting the critical role of these hormones in bodybuilding, include high cholesterol levels, elevated liver enzymes, abnormal red blood cell counts, or white blood cell counts. Interpreting Bodybuilder Test Results with Your Doctor: After receiving your results from a bodybuilder blood test, it’s important to discuss them with your doctor so they can explain what the numbers mean and if any further testing is needed. Depending on the results, you may need additional lab work to confirm a diagnosis or rule out certain conditions. Your doctor will also be able to recommend lifestyle changes or medications that can help improve your overall health, including heart health, based on the results of this type of testing. The Side Effects of Anabolic Steroids and High Doses of TRT on Bodybuilder Blood Test Results Anabolic steroids and high doses of testosterone can have serious effects on a person’s health, including their blood tests. It is important to understand the potential risks associated with anabolic steroid use or high doses of testosterone, as well as how it may affect your bodybuilder's blood test results. A. Potential Health Risks Associated with Anabolic Steroids and High Doses of Testosterone: Anabolic steroids are synthetic hormones that mimic the effects of testosterone in the body. Athletes and bodybuilders frequently use them to increase muscle mass, strength, and endurance, but they have a variety of negative side effects, including liver damage, heart issues, depression, aggression, infertility, and more. High doses of testosterone can also cause similar side effects as anabolic steroids but at a lesser degree due to its natural origin in the body. The use of anabolic steroids or high doses of testosterone can lead to changes in certain blood tests, such as increased levels of red blood cells (RBC), hemoglobin (Hb) and hematocrit (HCT). These changes could indicate underlying medical conditions such as polycythemia vera, which is caused by too many red blood cells being produced by the bone marrow, leading to thickening of the blood, increasing risk for stroke or heart attack if left untreated. White blood cell count (WBC) levels that drop can mean infection or inflammation; higher creatinine levels can mean kidney damage; higher cholesterol levels can raise the risk of heart disease; higher liver enzyme levels can mean liver toxicity; lower thyroid hormone production can lead to hypothyroidism; lower potassium levels can cause fatigue and other symptoms; and higher calcium levels can cause kidney stones and other problems related to an imbalance in calcium metabolism. These changes in blood tests serve as a baseline for understanding your general health and can also reveal potential health conditions that may interfere with your bodybuilding training and nutrition requirements. It is important that you discuss any abnormal results from your bodybuilder's lab test panel with your doctor so they can provide further guidance on what treatment options may be best suited for you depending on your individual situation. DiscountedLabs offers affordable lab testing without a doctor’s visit, so you can get tested regularly without breaking the bank. Where to Buy Affordable Bodybuilder Blood Tests from DiscountedLabs? DiscountedLabs is a great resource for bodybuilders looking to purchase affordable blood tests. DiscountedLabs offers a wide variety of lab tests, including those specifically designed for bodybuilders. These tests can help provide insight into the health and wellness of an individual, as well as their progress in achieving their fitness goals. DiscountedLabs provides convenient access to laboratory testing services without the need for a doctor’s visit or insurance coverage. They offer discounted rates on many types of lab tests, including those specifically designed for bodybuilders, such as hormone panels, cholesterol levels, liver function tests and more. In addition to providing discounts on these specific types of lab tests, they also offer additional services such as free shipping and 24/7 customer support via phone or email.   Bodybuilder Panels Sold by Discounted Labs: Bodybuilder Blood Test Panel- Basic Bodybuilder Blood Test Panel- Beginner Bodybuilder Blood Test Panel- Comprehensive   FAQs About Bodybuilder Blood Tests What blood tests do bodybuilders get? Bodybuilders typically get a variety of blood tests to monitor their health and performance. These include tests such as complete blood count (CBC), lipid panel, thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), testosterone, cortisol, iron levels, electrolytes, and energy levels. Higher levels of testosterone can also lead to increased energy levels, improved mood, and a higher sex drive, making it an important factor for bodybuilders to monitor. All these tests help bodybuilders assess their overall health status and determine if they are getting the proper nutrition for optimal muscle growth. Additionally, some bodybuilders may opt for additional specialized testing depending on their goals or medical history. Discounted Labs offers affordable lab testing in most cities across the U.S., allowing bodybuilders to easily access the necessary tests without having to visit a doctor’s office. What blood test do I need for steroids? The type of blood test you need for steroids depends on the specific steroid being used. Generally, tests are done to measure levels of testosterone, estradiol, and other hormones related to steroid use. Additionally, tests may be done to check for markers of liver damage or kidney function that can be affected by long-term steroid use. It is important to speak with a doctor before taking any form of steroids in order to determine which blood tests are necessary and how often they should be taken. Is there a blood test for muscle mass? Yes, there is a blood test for muscle mass. It's called the Creatinine Kinase (CK) test and it measures the amount of an enzyme in your bloodstream that is released when muscles are damaged or stressed. The CK test can help determine if you have too much or too little muscle mass, as well as provide insight into other health issues such as kidney damage or a heart attack. Results from this type of lab test are usually available within 1–7 business days after taking the sample. Discounted Labs offers affordable CK tests in most cities across the U.S., including measures of muscle tissue, so you don't need to visit a doctor's office to get tested. What is TRT blood work? TRT blood work is a type of lab test used to measure the levels of testosterone in the body. It is commonly used to diagnose and treat conditions related to low testosterone, such as hypogonadism or male infertility. The test measures both total and free testosterone levels, which can help determine if hormone replacement therapy, also known as testosterone replacement therapy, may be necessary. TRT blood work can also provide insight into other health issues that may be affecting overall well-being. Conclusion It is important for bodybuilders to monitor their blood tests regularly, especially if they are using anabolic steroids or high doses of testosterone. A bodybuilder's blood test can provide valuable insight into the health and wellness of a person's body. With DiscountedLabs, you can purchase affordable and reliable bodybuilder blood tests without having to visit a doctor's office. So don't wait any longer - get your bodybuilder blood test today.

Why are Discounted Lab Tests Important for Men and Women? It is important for people to have access to affordable blood tests. There are times when people want to have tests done without their doctors’ orders, and their insurance doesn’t cover testing because of high deductibles or other reasons. Many people are now shocked after their doctors order lab tests, and then they get a large balance bill from the lab test companies. Often times, buying lab tests on websites like DiscountedLabs.com would be cheaper than the amount shown in those exorbitant bills. Blood tests are needed even before you meet your doctor for your yearly physical checkup. Around half of the information in the medical chart comes from the results of lab tests . Blood tests and other diagnostic test results allow doctors to make smart decisions when it comes to their patients. Some of the tests include blood count, blood sugar levels, and hormone levels, just to name a few. In order for patients' doctors to properly diagnose them, access to affordable lab tests is crucial. It allows doctors to make the right diagnosis and plot the right course of treatment. The Internet has made it possible for many people to take charge of their health by educating themselves about the proper diagnosis and symptoms of different medical conditions. Many want to monitor their own lab tests while they try different supplements, change a dose of a medication, or determine if any of their medications are affecting their organ functions. DiscountedLabs.com provides affordable blood tests without the need for a doctor visit. Our services are available in most cities in the United States. We act as a bridge between patients and laboratories. We work with labs to provide inexpensive tests without sacrificing the accuracy of the results. And best of all, results are sent through email. It is a convenient and cheaper way to have blood tests in the US. Why Choose DiscountedLabs for Your Lab Testing Needs? When it comes to securing quality lab tests at affordable prices, Discounted Labs stands as a beacon of excellence. Let's delve into why you should make us your go-to source for all your lab testing needs. We Have the Most Affordable Lab Tests Available in the U.S. Cost is often the biggest barrier to healthcare. At DiscountedLabs.com, we aim to dismantle that barrier by offering the most competitively priced lab tests in the U.S. No Doctor Visit Required No need to spend extra time and money on a doctor’s visit just to get lab tests done. Our in-house doctor provides a prescription at no extra cost to you, ensuring a seamless process from start to finish. Private and Confidential Lab Test Results Your privacy is our priority. We handle your test results with the utmost confidentiality, maintaining a secure process that aligns with healthcare best practices. We Serve Most U.S. States We're proud to offer our services across a wide geographical footprint, catering to most states in the U.S. In Operation for Over 8 Years Trust comes with experience, and with over eight years in operation, we've built a brand that thousands rely upon for their lab testing needs. Orders are Valid for 6 Months There's no rush to head to the lab after placing your order. Rest easy knowing that your order remains valid for 180 days, giving you ample time to schedule your test. Order 24/7 with Our Simple Menu and Process Time is precious, and we get that. Our website features a user-friendly interface that allows you to order your tests any day, anytime. No Hidden Costs The price you see is the price you pay. The only addition is a nominal $8 lab draw fee. FDA-Approved Blood Tests Our tests adhere to the highest standards, with FDA approval ensuring quality and reliability. We are HIPAA-compliant. In this digital age, data security is paramount. We’re HIPAA compliant, which means we protect your privacy at all costs. Nationwide Labs Near You With over 1,900 lab locations around the United States, you're never too far from a convenient testing center. No Appointment Needed In many of our locations, we welcome walk-ins, providing an even more convenient experience. We encourage appointments to decrease wait times. Results Delivered Privately No more anxious waits. Your blood test results are swiftly delivered by private email, ensuring you can move forward with your healthcare decisions. State-of-the-Art Hormone Testing We offer sensitive LC/MS assays for hormone testing, sidestepping less accurate methods to give you the most reliable results. Customized Blood Test Panels Every individual is unique, and so are their healthcare needs. We offer blood test panels customized to different health conditions and concerns. Exclusive Discounts and Offers Who doesn't love a good discount? Customers who subscribe to our newsletter enjoy periodic discount coupons, making our affordable tests even more accessible. Educational Content and Resources Knowledge is power. Not only do we offer educational videos and articles on our blog, but we also educate consumers on how to interpret lab test results with their physicians. Plus, our Resources page is filled with essential tools like free books, clinic referrals, and consumer forums. Keep in mind that our services are not meant to be a substitute for professional diagnosis. We only provide the tools required by medical professionals to make the right decision and for people to empower themselves without going broke.

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!