Testosterone
Signs of high testosterone in men and what causes them
Most men worry about low testosterone, but too much can also cause problems. Signs of high testosterone in men are most often linked to steroid use or supplements rather than the body’s own production.
In short: Naturally high testosterone is uncommon in men. Most cases are caused by anabolic steroids, testosterone products or contaminated supplements, and rarely by tumours of the testicles or adrenal glands. Signs include acne, oily skin, mood swings, aggression, high blood pressure, thick blood, shrinking testicles and low sperm count.
Common signs
- Acne on the back, chest and face
- Oily skin and hair
- Mood swings, irritability or aggression
- Difficulty sleeping
- High blood pressure
- Fluid retention
- Rapid muscle gain with heavy training
Signs that surprise men
Shrinking testicles
When outside testosterone is high, the brain tells the testicles to stop making their own. They can shrink and sperm production can fall sharply. See testicle shrinkage causes.
Low sperm count and infertility
Steroid use is a common cause of male infertility. Read signs of male infertility.
Breast tissue growth
Extra testosterone can be converted into oestrogen, leading to gynecomastia.
Thick blood
High testosterone can raise red blood cells, increasing the risk of clots.
What causes high testosterone?
- Anabolic steroids or testosterone injections used for bodybuilding
- Supplements containing hidden steroids or prohormones
- Rarely, tumours of the testicles or adrenal glands
- Rare genetic conditions
Read steroids and erectile dysfunction.
After stopping steroids
Many men experience low testosterone, low libido and erection problems when they stop, because their own production takes months to restart.
When to seek help
See an appropriately registered medical professional if you have chest pain, severe headaches, signs of a blood clot or very high blood pressure, or if you used steroids and now have low libido or infertility.
How we can help
Our naturopaths do not prescribe hormones, but we can support men recovering from steroid use or supplement misuse with a natural plan for sleep, stress, nutrition, libido and sperm health.
Why men choose our natural approach
Walk in or consult remotely
Walk in at Buccleuch, Sandton, with parking available, or consult by phone or video from anywhere in South Africa.
Natural and non-surgical
Herbal remedies and practical guidance, with no injections or surgery.
Faster appointments
Enquiries answered 24/7, with same-day appointments often available.
Transparent pricing
Consultations are R2,500, with any remedy costs confirmed before you commit.
Private self-check: 5 quick questions
Answer these honestly before you try anything new or book. They help you describe what is happening and get more from your first consultation.
- Has your interest in sex dropped noticeably over the past year?
- Do you feel tired most days, even after a full night in bed?
- Has your weight around the middle increased?
- Have stress, low mood or poor sleep become more common?
- Have you noticed weaker erections or fewer morning erections?
Two or more yes answers suggest that energy, sleep, stress or weight may be affecting your drive. These are areas where natural, practical support often makes a real difference, and a naturopath can help you work out where to start.
What happens at your first consultation
- Walk in or book online, call +27 10 205 9855 or WhatsApp +27 81 823 1313. In Gauteng, walk in at 199 Vanessa Street, Buccleuch, Sandton, where parking is available. Outside Gauteng, choose a confidential phone or video consultation. Enquiries are answered 24/7.
- Talk privately with a naturopath about your symptoms, health history, lifestyle and goals.
- Receive a personalised natural plan, with any remedy costs confirmed upfront.
- Follow up in person or remotely so your progress is reviewed and your plan adjusted.
Your health and safety
Our naturopaths use natural remedies and lifestyle support, and always check your health history and current medicines first. If anything needs medical attention we tell you honestly and refer you to an appropriately registered medical professional. Avoid unregistered “enhancement” products sold online or at markets, as SAHPRA has warned that some contain hidden ingredients.
Seek urgent medical care for chest pain, an erection lasting more than four hours, sudden weakness or other sudden symptoms.
Consultation price
A consultation is R2,500, in person or remote, and your naturopath confirms any further costs before you go ahead. See our mens clinic prices for details.
Frequently asked questions
What are the signs of high testosterone in men?
Acne, oily skin, mood swings, high blood pressure, shrinking testicles, low sperm count and sometimes breast tissue growth.
Can men naturally have high testosterone?
Some men naturally sit at the higher end of normal, but truly high levels are usually caused by steroids or supplements.
Does high testosterone cause infertility?
Outside testosterone can shut down sperm production, which is a common cause of male infertility.
Is high testosterone dangerous?
It can raise blood pressure, thicken the blood and affect the heart, so it should be assessed.
How much does a consultation cost?
A consultation is R2,500, and any remedy costs are confirmed with you before you go ahead.
Book your consultation today
Walk in at our Sandton practice any time, day or night, or book ahead. Outside Gauteng? Book a remote consultation.
References and further reading
Reviewed by George Mulaudzi, Naturopath. This page is general information and does not replace a personal consultation. If you have chest pain, sudden symptoms or a medical emergency, seek urgent medical care.
