A New Look At Testosterone Therapy In [location_name]
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Over the past decade, testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) has gained widespread popularity among older men in Chesterfield. They are choosing this therapy to restore their hormone levels, hoping to increase their energy and revive their sexual desire.
While TRT is commonly used, it remains a divisive matter due to unclear benefits and potential health risks. Earlier research suggested a possible link between TRT and increased cardiovascular disease risk, causing safety concerns.
At Harvard-affiliated Massachusetts General Hospital, Dr. Frances Hayes, a Reproductive Endocrinologist, notes the limitations present in some 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 research supports this stance. Research presented at the 2015 American Heart Association Scientific Sessions involved 1,472 men aged 52 to 63 with low testosterone and no cardiovascular disease history.
The results showed that TRT did not heighten the risk of heart attack, stroke, or death in healthy men.
Research reported in the August 2015 Mayo Clinic Proceedings showed no association 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.
The relationship between TRT and other health issues presents a mixed scenario. Despite earlier associations between TRT and a higher risk of prostate cancer, the December 2015 Journal of Urology published a study finding no increased risk of aggressive prostate cancer with five years of TRT exposure. This finding challenges traditional views and suggests further investigation into TRT’s long-term effects.
The long-term risks of TRT are still unknown, given the limited follow-up in many studies. However, individuals should not disregard TRT as a potential solution, as it may still be suitable for specific cases.
Who Is a Candidate For TRT In [location_name]?
In Chesterfield, TRT prescriptions mandate meeting two conditions: 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.”
A standard blood test is often used to measure testosterone levels. Considering daily fluctuations and the influence of medication and diet, multiple tests are needed. Dr. Hayes explains, “In around 30% of cases where the initial testosterone test indicates low levels, subsequent tests show normal levels.”
While low testosterone levels and various symptoms are present, testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) isn’t always the immediate solution. Dr. Hayes suggests “By understanding the underlying cause of declining levels, we can address it and naturally enhance low levels.”
For example, improvements in sexual well-being and vitality are commonly cited as advantages of TRT. A study published in the February 18, 2016 edition of The New England Journal of Medicine involved 790 men aged 65 and older to examine TRT’s effects. Men who received TRT for a year, compared to those on a placebo, experienced enhancements in sexual function, including activity, desire, and erectile function. However, the group saw only slight improvements in mood and found no changes in walking speed, a gauge of TRT’s effect on vitality.
“Your doctor should also consider any additional factors that could influence levels, such as medication or medical conditions,” advises Dr. Hayes. In such instances, your doctor could address the primary issue or adjust your medication or dosage to prevent affecting testosterone levels.
Men should understand the limitations of TRT, which is often portrayed as a cure-all. “Its outcomes are typically not as astounding as men expect,” Dr. Hayes observes.
This is exemplified by the frequent emphasis on sexual health and vitality as benefits of testosterone replacement therapy (TRT). A study featured in the February 18, 2016 release of The New England Journal of Medicine examined the effects of TRT on 790 men aged 65 and older. Those who received TRT for one year, compared to those on a placebo, reported improvements in sexual function, including activity, desire, and erectile function. However, the group experienced only a marginal improvement in mood and observed no changes in walking speed, a gauge of TRT’s effect on vitality.
Using TRT
TRT can be administered through gel application or injections. Gel application entails spreading a daily dose, roughly the size of a ketchup packet, across both upper arms, shoulders, or thighs. Injections are typically administered into the buttocks every two weeks.
Both methods offer advantages, particularly gels for stabilizing testosterone levels. “However, you should be careful to avoid close skin contact for a few hours, especially with women, as testosterone could cause acne or hair growth,” Dr. Hayes advises.
Post-injection, testosterone levels may initially surge before gradually decreasing, resulting in mood swings and energy fluctuations akin to a roller-coaster.
In Chesterfield, most men typically see symptom improvement within four to six weeks, though changes in muscle mass may require three to six months.
It’s worth noting that TRT doesn’t necessarily need to be maintained for life. “If the factor that caused your testosterone drop is resolved, you should try stopping the treatment and be re-evaluated by your doctor,” says Dr. Hayes.