A Detailed Look at Testosterone Testing in Tysons Corner, Virginia (600)

Have you been dealing with symptoms that could be related to your testosterone levels? Perhaps there are unexplained bouts of weariness, shifts in libido, or even health irregularities. If so, testosterone testing in Tysons Corner, Virginia may unlock the answers you seek.

This post is designed to help you understand the process of testosterone testing, its significance, and potential benefits for you.

What Is Testosterone Testing and Why Is It Important?

Testosterone testing is an assessment of a patient’s blood sample to measure testosterone levels in the body. 
In men, testosterone is a hormone that promotes muscle growth, bone density, and has a positive impact on sexual health. In women, testosterone is present in smaller quantities but assists in moderating muscle mass, libido, and hormonal equilibrium.  

Your body’s peak performance is also optimized by maintaining healthy levels of testosterone. Well-being, energy levels, and even mental health can be adversely impacted by having too little or excess of testosterone.  

Feeling “off” lately, or noticing changes in your body? You might want to consult a healthcare professional to discuss testosterone testing. This is especially important when accompanied by certain symptoms.

Who May Need Testosterone Testing?

A healthcare professional may suggest a testosterone test if you exhibit symptoms indicating elevated or low testosterone levels.

For Men

Diagnosis and treatment will generally be considered for men displaying the following symptoms of low testosterone:

• Erectile dysfunction.
• Decreased libido (low sex drive).
• Loss of muscle mass.
• Infertility.
• Gynecomastia or enlargement of breast tissue.

For Women

Women exhibiting signs of elevated testosterone levels may benefit from undergoing testing. These may include:

• Acne.
• Hirsutism (excessive facial and body hair).
• Menstrual cycle irregularities.
• Voice deepening.
• Infertility.

Also, testosterone tests can help assess some borderline hormonal conditions in children, such as early or late puberty, by measuring testosterone levels at certain developmental milestones.

What Does Testosterone Testing in Tysons Corner, Virginia Measure?

Testosterone testing in Tysons Corner, Virginia evaluates two main forms of the hormone:

Total Testosterone: This test assesses both free testosterone and testosterone that is bound to proteins in the blood.

Free Testosterone: Free testosterone is not bound to proteins and is in its active, usable form. Testing for free testosterone is sometimes more useful for assessing certain conditions.

Your healthcare provider will decide which test suits your needs based on your medical history and presenting symptoms.

Why Investigate Testosterone Testing?  

Primary care practitioners and clinics can order and perform testosterone testing. They make sure to offer comprehensive assessments and modern testing techniques so that you can receive results in a timely manner.

Healthcare providers in the area are ideal as they can provide specific attention to your symptoms and consider your holistic wellbeing.  

How Do You Perform A Testosterone Test?  

The procedure is simple and consists of a single blood sample. The steps are as follows:

1. A healthcare provider will clean and disinfect the area around your arm before putting a needle to collect a blood sample.  
2. It is a quick procedure that takes under five minutes.  
3. The sample is sent to a laboratory, and you will most likely receive the results within a few days.  
   To optimize accuracy, you may be advised to take the test in the morning when levels are high. Some patients may be instructed to not eat or drink anything for several hours before the test.

What Do Your Results Show?  

Deviations from a range of values within which your test results lie and are influenced by age, gender, and even the methods used by the laboratory, could suggest an underlying condition.  

Men’s low testosterone levels can be caused by hypogonadism, disorders of the pituitary gland, and some medications.  

For women, increased testosterone levels may indicate polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or other hormonal disorders, and occasionally tumors of the adrenal glands.  

Atypical results from testosterone testing in Tysons Corner, Virginia may not mean that there is a problem. Stress, medication, laboratory error, and other factors can have an influence. Your healthcare provider will consider your levels along with your history to develop a suitable plan.

Take the First Step Towards Improving Your Hormone Health

Need to book an appointment for testosterone testing? If so, please call our office today to schedule a visit with one of our highly skilled and experienced providers.