A New Look At Testosterone Therapy In [location_name]
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Over the past ten years, testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) has seen a significant rise in popularity in Central Scottsdale. Countless older men have opted for TRT to restore hormone levels, aiming to increase their energy and rejuvenate their sexual desire.
While TRT has gained traction, it remains a debated topic due to uncertain benefits and potential health risks. Years ago, studies highlighted safety concerns by suggesting a possible association between TRT and higher cardiovascular disease risk.
Harvard-affiliated Massachusetts General Hospital’s Dr. Frances Hayes highlights the limitations in certain 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
Latest investigations have bolstered this position. Research reported at the 2015 American Heart Association Scientific Sessions involved 1,472 men aged 52 to 63 with low testosterone levels and no previous cardiovascular disease.
Findings indicated 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.
Moreover, research in the December 2015 Journal of Urology demonstrated that exposure to TRT over a five-year duration did not elevate the risk of aggressive prostate cancer, despite previous links between TRT and heightened prostate cancer risk.
With limited follow-up in various studies, the long-term risks of TRT remain unknown. Yet, it’s crucial not to discount TRT altogether. It could still be a suitable option for certain individuals.
Who Is a Candidate For TRT In [location_name]?
TRT prescription eligibility in Central Scottsdale hinges on meeting two conditions: low testosterone levels (below 600 nanograms per deciliter (ng/dL)) and experiencing multiple symptoms (refer to page 7). According to Dr. Hayes, “While low levels can occur without symptoms, if critical symptoms like fatigue and sexual dysfunction aren’t evident, starting TRT isn’t advisable given current uncertainties regarding its long-term safety.”
A standard blood test is typically used to evaluate testosterone levels. Given their daily fluctuations and susceptibility to medication and diet influences, multiple tests are required. Dr. Hayes notes, “In approximately 30% of cases where the initial testosterone test shows low levels, subsequent tests indicate normal levels.”
Despite low testosterone levels and multiple symptoms, testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) may not be the first course of action. Dr. Hayes suggests, “Identifying the underlying cause of declining levels allows us to address it and naturally increase low levels.”
Consider weight gain, for example, often the main contributor to declining levels. “Weight exerts a more significant influence on testosterone levels than aging. With increased weight, testosterone levels tend to decrease,” she points out. A five-point rise on the body mass index (BMI) scale, like progressing from 30 to 35, is equivalent to adding 10 years to your age concerning testosterone levels.
“Your doctor should also assess any additional factors that may impact levels, like medication or medical conditions,” advises Dr. Hayes. In such instances, your doctor might address the underlying condition or adjust your medication or dosage to avoid impacting testosterone levels.
Men must grasp the constraints of TRT, as it’s frequently regarded as a cure-all. “Its outcomes are often not as remarkable as men perceive,” Dr. Hayes explains.
For example, sexual health and vitality are commonly lauded benefits of TRT. A study outlined in the Feb. 18, 2016 issue of The New England Journal of Medicine investigated the impacts of TRT on 790 men aged 65 and older. Those undergoing TRT for one year, in contrast to those receiving a placebo, noted enhancements in sexual function, including activity, desire, and erectile function. However, the group experienced only a slight mood improvement and saw no alterations in walking speed, which was used to assess TRT’s effect on vitality.
Using TRT
TRT is commonly given either by gel or injection. For the gel, you apply the daily dose, about the size of a ketchup packet, to both upper arms, shoulders, or thighs. Injections are typically administered into the buttocks biweekly.
Each method has its own advantages. Gels result in steadier levels of testosterone. “However, you need to be cautious of close skin contact for a few hours, especially with women, as testosterone could cause acne or hair growth,” Dr. Hayes explains.
Post-injection testosterone levels rise significantly for a few days and then slowly come down, resulting in a roller-coaster effect with mood and energy level fluctuations.
Most men in Central Scottsdale experience symptom relief within four to six weeks, though changes in muscle mass can require three to six months.
TRT may not have to be taken indefinitely. “If the problem that caused your testosterone to drop is resolved, you should have a trial off the treatment and be re-evaluated by your doctor,” says Dr. Hayes.