A New Look At Testosterone Therapy In [location_name]

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In recent years, testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) has experienced a surge in popularity in Corona. A significant number of older men have turned to TRT to replenish hormone levels, aiming to boost their energy and revive their sexual desire.

Although TRT has become widely used, it remains controversial due to uncertain benefits and potential health risks. Years ago, studies raised safety concerns by indicating a possible connection between TRT and a higher risk of cardiovascular disease.

Dr. Frances Hayes from Harvard-affiliated Massachusetts General Hospital highlights that some studies had certain 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

Recent scientific findings have validated this stance. A study reported at the 2015 American Heart Association Scientific Sessions involved 1,472 men, aged 52 to 63, with low testosterone and no history of cardiovascular disease.

Researchers concluded that TRT did not contribute to a higher risk of heart attack, stroke, or death in healthy men.

A study in the August 2015 Mayo Clinic Proceedings showed no link 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 elusive. 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 [location_name]?

To receive a prescription for TRT in Corona, you must meet two criteria: low testosterone levels (less than 600 nanograms per deciliter (ng/dL)) and the presence of several symptoms (see page 7). Dr. Hayes explains, “Although it’s possible to have low levels without symptoms, if key symptoms such as fatigue and sexual dysfunction are absent, starting TRT isn’t recommended due to ongoing uncertainties about its long-term safety.”

Employing a standard blood test is a typical approach to measure testosterone levels. Given their susceptibility to daily fluctuations and influences from medication and diet, multiple tests are necessary. Dr. Hayes highlights, “In approximately 30% of cases where the initial testosterone test shows low levels, subsequent tests reveal normal levels.”

Despite low testosterone levels and experiencing several symptoms, testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) isn’t always the first choice. Dr. Hayes notes, “Understanding the underlying cause of declining levels enables us to tackle it and naturally raise low levels.”

Take weight gain, for instance, which is frequently the main contributor to declining levels. “Weight has a larger impact on testosterone levels compared to 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 akin to adding 10 years to your age concerning 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 condition or modify your medication or dosage to prevent affecting testosterone levels.

Men should comprehend the limitations of TRT, as it’s frequently perceived as a miracle treatment. “Its outcomes are typically not as astounding as men imagine,” Dr. Hayes observes.

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

TRT is often administered 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 generally given into the buttocks every two weeks.

Each method offers its own advantages. Gels ensure steadier testosterone levels. “However, it’s important to avoid close skin contact for a few hours, especially with women, as testosterone could cause acne or hair growth,” Dr. Hayes warns.

Following an injection, testosterone levels can increase significantly for a few days and then taper off, leading to a roller-coaster effect with rising and falling mood and energy levels.

Symptom relief typically occurs within four to six weeks for most men in Corona, while changes in muscle mass may take up to six months.

TRT may not always be necessary for life. “If the problem that caused your testosterone to drop is resolved, you should try discontinuing treatment and get re-evaluated by your doctor,” says Dr. Hayes.