A New Look At Testosterone Therapy In [location_name]

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In the past ten years, testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) has gained significant popularity in Cedar Park. Countless older men have chosen TRT to normalize hormone levels, aiming to refuel their energy and reignite their sexual desire.

While TRT has gained traction, it remains controversial due to uncertain benefits and potential health risks. Years ago, concerns about its safety emerged when studies indicated a possible connection between TRT and increased cardiovascular disease risk.

Harvard-affiliated Massachusetts General Hospital’s Dr. Frances Hayes points out the limitations in some of these studies.

“For instance, in one study, TRT doses were much higher than what would usually be prescribed, and the subjects tended to be more frail, with other health problems,” she says. “Other studies showed no evidence of increased risk.”

THE LATEST FINDINGS

Recent studies have affirmed this viewpoint. Research shared at the 2015 American Heart Association Scientific Sessions involved 1,472 men aged 52 to 63 with low testosterone and no previous cardiovascular disease.

The research suggested that TRT did not elevate the risk of heart attack, stroke, or death in healthy men.

Additionally, research from the August 2015 Mayo Clinic Proceedings revealed no link between TRT and blood clots in veins among 30,000 men. “Right now, the jury is still out about TRT’s influence on cardiovascular disease,” says Dr. Hayes.

TRT’s relationship with other health issues presents a mixed scenario. Despite previous associations between TRT and a higher risk of prostate cancer, a study published in the December 2015 Journal of Urology indicated that exposure to TRT over a five-year period was not correlated with an increased risk of aggressive prostate cancer.

TRT’s long-term risks continue to be uncertain, given the limited follow-up in various studies. Nonetheless, this shouldn’t discourage individuals from exploring TRT as an option. It could still be appropriate for certain individuals.

Who Is a Candidate For TRT In [location_name]?

TRT prescription in Cedar Park necessitates meeting two prerequisites: low testosterone levels (below 600 nanograms per deciliter (ng/dL)) and experiencing various symptoms (refer to page 7). Dr. Hayes emphasizes, “While it’s conceivable to have low levels without symptoms, if crucial symptoms like fatigue and sexual dysfunction aren’t present, initiating TRT isn’t advisable due to current uncertainties surrounding its long-term safety.”

Testosterone levels are usually assessed using a standard blood test. Since these levels can fluctuate daily and are influenced by medication and diet, multiple tests are necessary. Dr. Hayes mentions, “In roughly 30% of cases where the initial testosterone test shows low levels, subsequent tests demonstrate normal levels.”

Low testosterone levels and several symptoms don’t necessarily mandate testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) right away. Dr. Hayes explains, “By pinpointing the source of declining levels, we can often address it and naturally elevate low levels.”

Consider weight gain, for example, frequently the primary culprit behind diminishing levels. “Weight plays a more significant role in testosterone levels than aging. With increased weight, testosterone levels typically decrease,” she remarks. A five-point climb on the body mass index (BMI) scale, such as transitioning from 30 to 35, is akin to adding 10 years to your age concerning testosterone levels.

“Your doctor should also consider any additional factors that may influence levels, such as medication or medical conditions,” recommends Dr. Hayes. In such scenarios, your doctor might manage the root cause or adjust your medication or dosage to avoid impacting testosterone levels.

Men should be aware of the limitations of TRT, as it’s commonly thought of as a panacea. “Its effects are usually not as impressive as men might hope,” Dr. Hayes remarks.

As an example, sexual health and vitality are frequently highlighted as benefits of TRT. A study in the Feb. 18, 2016 issue of The New England Journal of Medicine explored the impact of TRT on 790 men aged 65 and older. Those administered TRT for a year, as opposed to those on a placebo, noticed enhancements in sexual function , including activity, desire, and erectile function. Nevertheless, the group experienced only a marginal improvement in mood and observed no alterations in walking speed, a measure of TRT’s effect on vitality.

Using TRT

TRT is often administered through gel or injection. The gel is applied daily, with a dose about the size of a ketchup packet, spread over both upper arms, shoulders, or thighs. Injections are typically administered into the buttocks biweekly.

Each method has its pros. Gels result in more consistent testosterone levels. “However, you should avoid close skin contact for a few hours, especially with women, since testosterone could cause acne or hair growth,” explains Dr. Hayes.

With injections, testosterone levels surge for a few days before gradually declining, leading to a roller-coaster effect where mood and energy levels peak and then trail off.

Most men in Cedar Park start to feel better within four to six weeks, though changes in muscle mass can require three to six months.

TRT might not be a lifelong necessity. “If the cause of your low testosterone levels is resolved, you should try coming off the treatment and get re-evaluated by your doctor,” says Dr. Hayes.