A New Look At Testosterone Therapy In [location_name]

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Over the past decade, testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) has gained significant popularity in North Fresno. A large number of older men have turned to TRT to replenish hormone levels, aiming to boost their energy and rejuvenate their sexual desire.

While TRT has become popular, it remains controversial due to uncertain benefits and potential health risks. Years ago, research highlighted safety concerns by suggesting a possible connection between TRT and an increased risk of cardiovascular disease.

Dr. Frances Hayes, from Harvard-affiliated Massachusetts General Hospital, mentions the limitations of 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

Current research has validated this position. At the 2015 American Heart Association Scientific Sessions, a study involving 1,472 men aged 52 to 63 with low testosterone and no previous heart disease was reported.

It was found that TRT did not raise the risk of heart attack, stroke, or death for healthy men.

Moreover, findings from the August 2015 Mayo Clinic Proceedings revealed 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.

The December 2015 Journal of Urology findings indicated that exposure to TRT over a five-year duration was not correlated with an increased risk of aggressive prostate cancer, providing new insights into the relationship between TRT and prostate cancer risk.

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 [location_name]?

To receive a prescription for TRT in North Fresno, 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.”

Testosterone levels are typically determined through a standard blood test. Due to their daily fluctuations and susceptibility to medication and diet, multiple tests are essential. Dr. Hayes states, “Around 30% of cases where the initial testosterone test shows low levels, subsequent tests reveal normal levels.”

Low testosterone levels and several symptoms don’t automatically mean immediate testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) is needed. Dr. Hayes advises, “Pinpointing the cause of declining levels enables us to tackle it and naturally boost 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 should be aware of the limitations of TRT, as it’s frequently hailed as a magical solution. “Its outcomes are typically not as astounding as men expect,” 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

Using TRT

TRT is often administered via gel or injection. The gel is applied daily, with a dose roughly the size of a ketchup packet, spread over the upper arms, shoulders, or thighs. Injections are typically given into the buttocks every two weeks.

Both methods offer their own advantages. Gels ensure steadier testosterone levels. “But you need to avoid close skin contact for a few hours, particularly with women, as testosterone could cause acne or hair growth,” Dr. Hayes warns.

With injections, testosterone levels can reach high levels for several days and then gradually decrease, creating a roller-coaster effect with rising and falling mood and energy levels.

Improvement in symptoms is often seen within four to six weeks for most men in North Fresno, with muscle mass gains taking three to six months.

TRT doesn’t necessarily need to be lifelong. “If the initial issue causing your low testosterone levels is resolved, you should try a trial period off treatment and have your doctor re-evaluate you,” says Dr. Hayes.