Testosterone is the male essential hormone contributing to health and wellbeing. The majority of testosterone is produced in the testicles. It helps maintain bone density, fat distribution, and muscle strength/mass. It also helps maintain facial and body hair growth, red blood cell production, sex drive, and sperm production. Consequently testosterone replacement therapy can have dramatic effects on men’s overall quality of life due to its function in so many biological processes. The testosterone molecule has two charged parts which interact with proteins in the body. Treatments can be put in place to normalize levels when production is impaired or lower than desired. Testosterone replacement therapy gives men access to all the benefits testosterone provides – it can help men maintain their sense of wellbeing as they age. It is important to understand that there are possible side effects of testosterone replacement therapy.
What happens to testosterone levels the older we get?
Testosterone levels generally peak during adolescence and early adulthood, and they typically decline annually by 1% after age 30 or 40. Hypogonadism or Low Testosterone, can be caused by normal aging or a disorder of the testicles or the pituitary gland. Symptoms of low testosterone include lethargy, loss of libido, decreased muscle mass and hair loss. Fortunately, testosterone replacement therapy is available to help replenish testosterone in men who suffer from low testosterone due to hypogonadism. This therapy comes in various forms such as injections, pellets, patches and gels that can improve testosterone-related symptoms greatly. Once men reach the age of 30 to have regular testosterone test done. This is an important step in prevention health and allows for treatment at the first signs of low testosterone.
Does everyone experience the signs and symptoms of naturally declining testosterone levels?
age not all of the various symptoms or changes that occur can necessarily be attributed to testosterone levels. Lower testosterone levels may be accompanied by changes in sexual function and physical appearance as well as emotional changes – such as reduced motivation and self-confidence, depression, difficulty concentrating and memory. Determining whether a man is indeed suffering from testosterone deficiency can only be conducted via blood tests and testosterone replacement therapy may be recommended for further diagnosis. It is important to understand the various signs and symptoms associated with aging in order to properly determine whether testosterone level decline is actually to blame.
Symptoms of testosterone deficiency:
- Low sex drive
- Decreased energy levels
- Increased body fat
- Changes in mood
Symptoms such as these can be caused by a wide range of factors. Medication side effects, obstructive sleep apnea, thyroid problems, diabetes and depression are all possible causes of low testosterone levels. In some cases, treating the underlying condition can result in an increase in testosterone. Testosterone levels that cannot be increased naturally a provider may recommend testosterone replacement therapy. Blood tests are used to accurately identify testosterone deficiency before treatment is prescribed.
What are the risks of testosterone replacement therapy?
Testosterone replacement therapy can offer men numerous benefits, but it carries a number of risks.
Potential side effects include:
- Worsening sleep apnea
- Acne and other skin reactions
- Possible growth of the prostate or existing prostate cancer
- Can result in reduced sperm production or shrunken testicles
- Increased red blood cell production which may increase risk of blood clots
- Potentially increased risk of heart problems
More research is needed so that we have a better understanding of the risks associated with testosterone replacement therapy.
Schedule your appointment today to discuss if testosterone replacement therapy is right for you.
Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) is a clinically proven hormone treatment for men. However, the side effects associated with TRT should not be taken lightly. If you think testosterone therapy is right for you, give us a call today or schedule your telehealth consultation. I would love to discuss the risks versus benefits and if testosterone replacement therapy is right for you. Looking for more information? Check out Awakin Men’s Health services page for more information on testosterone replacement therapy.