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Despite its growing popularity, TRT remains contentious because of uncertain benefits and potential health risks. Years ago, research highlighted safety concerns by suggesting a possible link between TRT and increased cardiovascular disease risk.
Dr. Frances Hayes from Harvard-affiliated Massachusetts General Hospital points out that some studies had limitations.
“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
The study revealed that healthy men who received TRT did not have an elevated risk of heart attack, stroke, or death.
Additionally, a study published in the August 2015 Mayo Clinic Proceedings showed no connection between TRT and venous blood clots among 30,000 men. “Right now, the jury is still out about TRT’s influence on cardiovascular disease,” says Dr. Hayes.
TRT’s correlation with other health issues shows a mixed pattern. Despite TRT being previously associated with an increased occurrence of prostate cancer, a study outlined in the December 2015 Journal of Urology demonstrated that exposure to TRT over a five-year period did not lead to a higher risk of aggressive prostate cancer.
Despite the limited follow-up in various studies, the long-term risks of TRT remain ambiguous. Nevertheless, it’s important not to dismiss TRT entirely. It might be a viable choice for certain men.
Who Is a Candidate For TRT In Coeur D'Alene?
Evaluating testosterone levels commonly involves a standard blood test. Given their susceptibility to daily fluctuations and influences from medication and diet, multiple tests are necessary. Dr. Hayes highlights, “In roughly 30% of cases with an initial low testosterone test result, subsequent tests demonstrate normal levels.”
Low testosterone levels and various symptoms don’t necessarily warrant immediate testosterone replacement therapy (TRT). Dr. Hayes suggests, “By pinpointing the reason for declining levels, we can often address it and naturally elevate low levels.”
Take weight gain, for instance, which is often the leading factor behind declining levels. “Weight has a more substantial effect on testosterone levels than aging. As weight increases, testosterone levels decrease,” she explains. A five-point increase on the body mass index (BMI) scale, such as moving from 30 to 35, is comparable to adding 10 years to your age regarding testosterone levels.
“Your doctor should also examine any other factors that might influence levels, such as medication or medical conditions,” suggests Dr. Hayes. In these situations, your doctor may address the underlying issue or modify your medication or dosage to prevent affecting 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.
Consider sexual health and vitality, for instance, often praised advantages of TRT. In a study detailed in the Feb. 18, 2016 issue of The New England Journal of Medicine, researchers assessed TRT’s effects on 790 men aged 65 and above. Those subjected to TRT for one year, compared to those given a placebo, reported improvements in sexual function, encompassing activity, desire, and erectile function. However, the group experienced only a slight mood uplift and observed no changes in walking speed, a marker of TRT’s effect on vitality.
Using TRT
Both methods come with their own benefits. Gels provide steadier testosterone levels. “But you should be cautious of close skin contact for a few hours, particularly with women, as testosterone might cause acne or hair growth,” advises Dr. Hayes.
With injections, testosterone levels can increase significantly for a few days and then slowly decline, leading to a roller-coaster effect where mood and energy levels peak and then trail off.
Many men in Coeur D’Alene feel symptom relief within four to six weeks, although muscle mass increases can take three to six months.
TRT doesn’t necessarily have to be a permanent treatment. “If the underlying cause of your testosterone drop is resolved, you should try a trial off treatment and consult with your doctor for re-evaluation,” says Dr. Hayes.