A New Look At Testosterone Therapy In [location_name]

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In the past decade, testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) has gained significant popularity in Palm Harbor, FL. Many older men have turned to TRT to restore their hormone levels, aiming to boost their energy and rejuvenate their sexual vitality.

Despite its rising popularity, testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) remains controversial due to its uncertain benefits and potential health risks. Historically, concerns about its safety have been raised, particularly when studies suggested a possible link between TRT and an increased risk of cardiovascular disease.

Dr. Frances Hayes, a reproductive endocrinologist at Harvard-affiliated Massachusetts General Hospital, notes that some of these studies were limited in scope.

“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 view. During the 2015 American Heart Association Scientific Sessions, findings from a study involving 1,472 men aged 52 to 63, all with low testosterone levels and no history of heart disease, were presented.

Researchers discovered that men in good health who received TRT did not exhibit a higher risk of heart attack, stroke, or mortality.

Additionally, a study published in the August 2015 issue of Mayo Clinic Proceedings found no association 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 link between TRT and other health issues varies significantly. Although TRT has been historically associated with a higher incidence of prostate cancer, a study published in the December 2015 Journal of Urology found no correlation between TRT over a five-year period and an increased risk of aggressive prostate cancer.

Uncertainties about the long-term risks of TRT remain due to the limited follow-up in many studies. However, this does not imply that TRT should be avoided altogether. For some men, this therapy can still be a viable option.

Who Is a Candidate For TRT In [location_name], FL?

To be eligible for a TRT prescription in Palm Harbor, FL, individuals must meet two requirements: testosterone levels below 600 nanograms per deciliter (ng/dL) and the presence of several symptoms (see page 7). Dr. Hayes explains, “While it’s possible to have low levels without symptoms, if you lack key symptoms, particularly fatigue and sexual dysfunction, it’s not advisable to start TRT due to current uncertainties surrounding its long-term safety.”

Testosterone levels are generally measured through a standard blood test. Since levels can vary daily due to factors like medication and diet, multiple tests are often required. Dr. Hayes mentions, “In 30% of instances where the first testosterone test indicates low levels, subsequent tests show normal levels.”

Even with low testosterone levels and multiple symptoms, testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) may not always be the first treatment option.”Identifying the underlying cause of declining levels allows us to address it and naturally boost low levels,” states Dr. Hayes.

Take weight gain, for example, which is often the primary factor behind declining testosterone levels. “Weight exerts a more substantial influence on testosterone levels than aging. As weight increases, testosterone levels decrease,” she explains. A five-point increase on the BMI scale, such as going from 30 to 35, is comparable to adding 10 years to your age in terms of its effect on testosterone levels.

“Your doctor should also assess any additional factors that could impact levels, such as medication or medical conditions,” advises Dr. Hayes. In these situations, your doctor might focus on addressing the underlying cause or adjust your medication or dosage to prevent impacting testosterone levels.

It’s crucial for men to recognize that TRT should not be seen as a quick-fix solution. “Its results are often less remarkable than many men envision,” notes Dr. Hayes.

Consider sexual health and vitality, which are often emphasized as benefits of TRT. A study published in the February 18, 2016 issue of The New England Journal of Medicine evaluated TRT’s effects on 790 men aged 65 and older. Those on TRT for one year showed improvements in sexual function, such as activity, desire, and erectile function, compared to those on a placebo. However, there was only minimal improvement in mood and no change in walking speed, a measure of vitality.

Using TRT

TRT is commonly administered via gel application or injections. With gel, you apply a daily dose about the size of a ketchup packet to your upper arms, shoulders, or thighs. Injections are usually given biweekly into the buttocks.

Each method has its benefits, with gels providing more consistent testosterone levels. “However, you must avoid close skin contact for a few hours, especially with women, as the testosterone can cause acne or hair growth,” advises Dr. Hayes.

Injections can lead to a spike in testosterone levels for several days post-administration, followed by a gradual decline. This fluctuation may cause mood and energy levels to rise and fall, creating a roller-coaster effect.

In Palm Harbor, FL, most men usually observe symptom improvement within four to six weeks, while changes like increased muscle mass may take three to six months.

Additionally, TRT might not necessarily be a lifelong treatment. “If the cause of your low testosterone levels resolves, you should try stopping treatment and get re-evaluated by your doctor,” says Dr. Hayes.