Testosterone levels vary significantly by age and are crucial for many physiological functions, including muscle mass, bone density, and sexual health. For men, normal testosterone levels generally peak during adolescence and early adulthood and begin to decline gradually with age. In young adult males, normal testosterone ranges from 300 to 1,000 ng/dL. For men over 50, levels tend to be lower, around 200 to 800 ng/dL. Low testosterone can lead to symptoms like fatigue, low libido, and decreased muscle mass. Understanding your age-appropriate testosterone levels through a blood test is key to addressing potential health issues.

A faecal calprotectin test measures the level of calprotectin, a protein released by white blood cells, in your stool. High levels typically indicate inflammation in the intestines, which can be a sign of conditions like Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis. Low levels suggest that intestinal inflammation is unlikely, making conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) more probable. Understanding whether calprotectin levels are high or low helps doctors distinguish between inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) and non-inflammatory conditions, guiding appropriate treatment plans.

The HbA1c test measures your average blood glucose levels over the past 2-3 months. It doesn't require fasting or special preparation, so you can eat and drink normally before the test. During the test, a blood sample is taken, which is sent to a lab for analysis. The results help assess long-term glucose control, especially for people with diabetes. A normal HbA1c level is below 5.7%, while levels above 6.5% may indicate diabetes. Higher results suggest poor blood sugar control and may prompt adjustments in diabetes treatment plans.

Elevated liver enzyme levels on a Liver Function Test (LFT) may indicate liver inflammation or damage. The most commonly measured enzymes are alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST), which are released into the bloodstream when liver cells are injured. High levels of these enzymes can be caused by conditions such as hepatitis, fatty liver disease, alcohol use, or medication effects. Treatment depends on addressing the underlying cause, such as managing viral infections, reducing alcohol consumption, or stopping harmful medications. Early detection and treatment can prevent further liver damage.