Symptoms of High Testosterone in Men: Hair Loss and More

Q: Symptoms of High Testosterone in Men: Hair Loss and More

Hello： High levels of male hormones in men can lead to excessive and dense body hair, as well as a robust beard. <br>Your symptoms may be related.

Regarding elevated androgen levels in males?

I would like to ask what symptoms are associated with elevated androgen levels? Recently, I discovered an issue with male pattern baldness in dermatology, and I'm a bit concerned that it might be caused by high androgen levels leading to hair loss.
Additionally, I have more body hair than average, including chest hair and abdominal hair, and my leg hair and beard are quite thick as well.
I'm wondering if there is any correlation with this.

Q, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/07/29

Dr. Lin Jianliang reply Internal Medicine

Hello: High levels of male hormones in men can lead to excessive and dense body hair, as well as a robust beard.
Your symptoms may be related.

Reply Date: 2023/07/29

More Info

High testosterone levels in men can manifest through a variety of symptoms, and hair loss is one of the more noticeable effects. When testosterone levels are elevated, it can lead to an increase in dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a potent androgen that is primarily responsible for hair loss in genetically predisposed individuals. This condition is commonly referred to as androgenetic alopecia, or male pattern baldness, which typically presents as a receding hairline and thinning at the crown of the head.

In addition to hair loss, high testosterone levels can lead to several other symptoms. These may include:
1. Increased Body Hair: As you mentioned, having more body hair, including chest hair and facial hair, can be a sign of elevated testosterone. This condition is known as hirsutism, and while it is more commonly discussed in women, men can also experience changes in hair distribution due to hormonal fluctuations.

2. Acne and Oily Skin: Elevated testosterone can stimulate sebaceous glands, leading to increased oil production and potentially resulting in acne.

3. Mood Changes: Some men may experience mood swings, irritability, or increased aggression when testosterone levels are high.

4. Increased Muscle Mass: Testosterone is known for its role in muscle development, so higher levels may lead to increased muscle mass and strength.

5. Changes in Libido: While testosterone is often associated with increased libido, excessively high levels can sometimes lead to a decrease in sexual desire or performance issues.

6. Sleep Apnea: High testosterone levels have been linked to sleep apnea, a condition characterized by interrupted breathing during sleep.

7. Gynecomastia: In some cases, elevated testosterone can lead to an imbalance in estrogen levels, resulting in breast tissue enlargement in men.

Regarding your concern about hair loss, it is important to note that while high testosterone can contribute to hair thinning, the pattern and speed of hair loss can vary significantly among individuals. If you are experiencing rapid hair loss over a short period, it may be worth considering other factors such as stress, medical conditions, or medications that could also be contributing to this issue.

Stress, in particular, can have a profound impact on hair health. Conditions like telogen effluvium, which is a temporary form of hair loss often triggered by stress, can cause significant shedding. This type of hair loss typically resolves once the underlying stressor is addressed.

If you suspect that your hair loss is related to high testosterone levels, it may be beneficial to consult with a healthcare professional who can perform a thorough evaluation. This may include blood tests to measure hormone levels and assess for any underlying conditions that could be contributing to your symptoms.

In summary, high testosterone levels can lead to various symptoms, including hair loss, increased body hair, acne, mood changes, and more. If you are experiencing significant changes in your hair or other symptoms, it is advisable to seek medical advice for a comprehensive assessment and appropriate management.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Hormonal Imbalances: Hair Loss and Related Symptoms

Hello, doctor. I would like to ask you a question. Recently, I noticed that my hair seems to be thinning when I went for a haircut. None of the male relatives in my family are bald. Later, I visited a dermatology clinic, and the doctor mentioned that I might have some androgeneti...

Dr. Hong Yuanbin reply Internal Medicine
Hello, hair loss can indeed be caused by many factors including stress, lifestyle, and hormonal imbalances. It is advisable to seek medical attention for further diagnosis. If you are concerned about hair loss, it is typically handled by a dermatologist. However, if you are worri...

Does Weightlifting Increase DHT Levels and Accelerate Hair Loss?

Hello Doctor: After my military service, I noticed signs of male pattern baldness and have been prescribed Finasteride. Recently, I started working out and came across a report from Xinhua News stating that scientists have indicated that bodybuilders, due to prolonged training, e...

Dr. Zhang Zhibo reply Dermatology
Hello: Both testosterone and dihydrotestosterone (DHT) are factors that contribute to hair loss, with DHT being a more potent androgen derivative than testosterone. The medication you are taking, Finasteride, is an inhibitor of the enzyme 5α-reductase, which converts testosterone...

Understanding Testosterone Levels: Symptoms and Improvement Strategies

Hi, Dr. Li. I am currently around 30 years old and have noticed several symptoms associated with testosterone deficiency. During a health check-up, I had my testosterone levels tested, and the result was 2.61 ng/ml. I would like to know if this value is within the normal range or...

Dr. Li Xinyi reply Urology
Testosterone levels at 2.61 ng/ml are considered low. Generally, supplementation may be recommended. However, it is essential to consult with a physician for evaluation and examination, as a diagnosis and treatment plan cannot be determined solely based on your description.

Understanding Hormonal Issues in Men: Effects on Hair Loss and Growth

What hormones do men have? If there is a deficiency, can it lead to hair loss or a smaller penis size? Can deficiencies be supplemented through injections? Will hair loss improve after supplementation? Will the penis also grow?

Dr. Fu Shizhang reply Urology
If hair loss is due to androgenetic alopecia, it must be treated with hormone inhibitors. As for penile development, it is related to genetics and androgens, but if one has already passed puberty, improvement can be difficult. To determine if there are any hormonal disorders, a b...