Testosterone is a hormone that is found in both men and women, although under normal conditions, women produce a lower amount of the hormone than men. In men, testosterone is responsible for the production of sperm and developing other male characteristics, such as facial hair and voice deepening. In women, the hormone assists with muscle and bone maintenance. In addition, testosterone influences libido in both sexes. In some individuals, the body produces too much of the hormone. Excessive levels of testosterone can cause several symptoms.
Physical Signs
Physical signs of elevated testosterone can vary among men and women since the hormone performs different functions in each gender. Men often experience increased levels of sperm production when their testosterone levels are increased. In women, high testosterone can cause male pattern baldness, the specific term for this condition is androgenic alopecia. In both sexes, increased testosterone can cause excessive facial hair, muscle mass and voice deepening. These symptoms are usually more pronounced and noticeable in women since the hormone increased can cause more dramatic changes in their physical characteristics.
Behavioral Signs
Increased levels of testosterone can cause abnormal behaviors in individuals. Since testosterone is linked to sexual drive, individuals with elevated testosterone levels may experience a stronger urge for sexual interactions, potentially resulting in risky behaviors. Those found to have higher levels of the hormone are generally more impulsive and more aggressive. In addition, mood changes, such as irritability and depression, may also be noticed in individuals with increased testosterone. These types of behaviors are found in both men and women with high testosterone.
Other Symptoms
High testosterone does not always cause negative effects on individuals. Elevated levels of testosterone have been associated with low cholesterol and lower blood pressure than those with levels within normal limits. In contrast, they were more likely to suffer injury due to risky behavior. According to the experts at Life Extension, testosterone levels have a direct correlation to occurrence of stroke as well. Those with lower levels are more like to experience an ischemic attack.
