Question: I’m a man of 65 and I’d like to have my testosterone levels checked. What does this involve?

Dr. Hibberd’s answer:

A simple blood test can measure your testosterone level. But be sure the testing is done by the same lab, as different labs do the analyses with differing methods, and have variable normal ranges. In adults, a low level does not have to be supplemented unless accompanied by symptoms, such as low energy, erectile dysfunction, or the loss of bone or muscle. So if you have low testosterone, and are 40 or older without symptoms or fertility issues, you don’t need supplements to raise your hormone levels. But if you do have low levels, it’s a good idea to be evaluated to understand why, to be sure they are not a part of a more involved health condition.