Quick BW Question

[Sark]

23 y/o
6'
160lbs

I have a varicocele that I went to a urologist to get checked out after reading on here (somewhere) that someone mentioned low T can be a symptom of the varicocele in the testes.
Urologist I went to said he never really has heard of that, and asked me for the studies that showed that etc.
Anyways, I was able to get him to agree to at least check my test levels and I just got them back today, haven't spoken to the dr yet.

testosterone (total) 813.16 ng/dl
-reference range: 340-1200

Testosterone free 143 pg/ml
-reference range: 47-244

SHBG 50.4 nmol/L
-Reference range 13.5-71.4

To me, SHBG seems high even though it says it's within range, but I see ranges on the web that basically say 50-57 is the upper limit?
Curious as to what anyone here thinks about that.

This was the only bloodwork I had done, I think it would be good for me to get a thyroid panel since I'm having trouble gaining weight, and I read that hyperthyroidism can lead to higher SHBG levels. Is there any other BW I should get done that anybody would recommend?
I don't really feel any effects like my T is low or anything like that, I just find it hard to gain weight, and I would assume it would be beneficial for me to get my SHBG lower, right?

FWIW, I did find studies (albeit small scale) that did show an increase in males T levels who got their varicocele fixed, but in all the results I can see, it didn't actually help to lower SHBG.

[kelkel]

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25214202

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21435152

I could list more but you get the point. Really hate when a doctor is not up on things or can't even do 5 minutes of research. WTF. Your TT level is fine and your FT level is mid-range. Be nice to know your E2 level as if higher it can elevate shbg. Speaking of shbg, be sure you test your Vit D level and optimize it as it can help to reduce shbg levels and increase free testosterone. You can also look into stinging nettle root and avenacosides.

Always good to check your thyroid as hypothyroidism can cause hypogonadism but your levels seem fine. If your LH level was suppressed then your T levels would be as well. Check your TSH, FT3 and FT4 if so inclined.

When it comes to gaining weight, most guys simply do not eat enough. You'd be surprised how much it takes over time to gain weight. It's not easy and really takes a concerted effort.

[Sark]

Thank you, I'll try to get all that checked.
Can you tell me which is the right way to think of it:
Will lowering my SHBG increase my free test number, or will my free test stay the same it will just be more effective? Not 100% sure on how SHBG works.

[kelkel]

Lowering shbg will increase your free t. Less being bound equals more free T to use.