A New Look At Testosterone Therapy In [location_name]
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In the last ten years, Riverside has seen a sharp increase in the appeal of testosterone replacement therapy (TRT). Many mature men are opting for this treatment to enhance their energy levels and revitalize their sexual desire.
TRT continues to stir debate despite its popularity, as its benefits and potential health risks remain ambiguous. Previous studies have hinted at a potential link between TRT and heightened cardiovascular disease risk, fueling safety concerns.
Dr. Frances Hayes, a Reproductive Endocrinologist from Massachusetts General Hospital linked with Harvard, has highlighted the limitations of particular 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 upholds this perspective. During the 2015 American Heart Association Scientific Sessions, a study of 1,472 men aged 52 to 63 with low testosterone and without a cardiovascular disease history revealed that TRT did not elevate the risk of heart attack, stroke, or mortality in healthy individuals.
Furthermore, the August 2015 Mayo Clinic Proceedings showed no link between TRT and venous blood clots in a cohort of 30,000 men. “Right now, the jury is still out about TRT’s influence on cardiovascular disease,” says Dr. Hayes.
The correlation between TRT and other health issues remains uncertain. While earlier studies indicated a possible association between TRT and an increased risk of prostate cancer, research published in the December 2015 Journal of Urology revealed no heightened risk of aggressive prostate cancer following five years of TRT use. This discovery contradicts prevailing beliefs and underscores the importance of ongoing research into the prolonged effects of TRT.
TRT’s long-term risks remain uncertain because many studies lack extensive follow-up. Despite this, TRT may be worth considering for certain individuals needing tailored treatment.
Who Is a Candidate For TRT In [location_name]?
To obtain a TRT prescription in Riverside, patients need to meet two conditions: testosterone levels below 600 nanograms per deciliter (ng/dL) and experiencing multiple symptoms (refer to page 7). Dr. Hayes stresses these requirements, “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.”
Testosterone levels are commonly assessed through a standard blood test. Given the daily fluctuations and the impact of medication and diet, conducting multiple tests is crucial. Dr. Hayes discusses the importance of this approach, “In around 30% of cases where the initial testosterone test indicates low levels, subsequent tests show normal levels.”
According to Dr. Hayes, low testosterone levels and various symptoms may not always call for testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) as the immediate solution, “By understanding the underlying cause of declining levels, we can address it and naturally enhance low levels.”
TRT is frequently praised for its potential benefits to sexual well-being and vitality. According to a study in the February 18, 2016 issue of The New England Journal of Medicine, 790 men aged 65 and older were studied to assess TRT’s effects. Individuals undergoing TRT for a year reported enhancements in sexual function, including activity, desire, and erectile function, compared to those given a placebo. Nonetheless, the group experienced minimal improvements in mood and observed no changes in walking speed, which assesses TRT’s impact on vitality.
“Your doctor should also consider any additional factors that could influence levels, such as medication or medical conditions,” suggests Dr. Hayes. In these instances, your doctor may focus on addressing the root issue or adjusting your medication or dosage to prevent affecting testosterone levels.
Understanding the limitations of TRT is important for men, as it’s often presented as a quick solution. “Its outcomes are typically not as astounding as men expect,” Dr. Hayes observes.
The advantages of testosterone replacement therapy (TRT), particularly in sexual health and vitality, are highlighted by a study featured in the February 18, 2016 edition of The New England Journal of Medicine. Researchers studied 790 men aged 65 and older, revealing that those undergoing TRT for one year experienced improvements in sexual function, including activity, desire, and erectile function, when compared to participants who received a placebo. However, the study noted only marginal improvements in mood and no changes in walking speed, indicating TRT’s limited impact on vitality.
Using TRT
Administering TRT is achievable through gel application or injections. Gel application involves applying a daily dose, about the size of a ketchup packet, on the upper arms, shoulders, or thighs. Injections are commonly given into the buttocks every two weeks.
Each method provides distinct benefits, with gels maintaining steady 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 can briefly peak before decreasing, resulting in mood swings and energy fluctuations that mimic a roller-coaster ride.
In Riverside, most men typically find relief from symptoms within four to six weeks, with changes in muscle mass potentially taking three to six months. It’s important to realize that TRT doesn’t necessarily require a lifelong commitment. “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.