A New Look At Testosterone Therapy In [location_name]

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In the last decade, testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) has become increasingly popular in Seal Beach. Many older men have chosen TRT to replenish hormone levels, hoping to enhance their energy and revive their sexual desire.

Despite its popularity, TRT remains a contentious issue because of uncertain benefits and potential health risks. Years ago, studies suggested a possible link between TRT and higher cardiovascular disease risk, raising safety concerns.

Reproductive endocrinologist Dr. Frances Hayes at Harvard-affiliated Massachusetts General Hospital observes the limitations in some 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

New studies have upheld this stance. Research disclosed at the 2015 American Heart Association Scientific Sessions involved 1,472 men aged 52 to 63 with low testosterone levels and no history of cardiovascular disease.

The results showed that TRT did not pose a greater risk of heart attack, stroke, or death in healthy men.

Further findings in the August 2015 Mayo Clinic Proceedings showed no association between TRT and blood clots in veins among 30,000 men. “Right now, the jury is still out about TRT’s influence on cardiovascular disease,” says Dr. Hayes.

TRT’s relationship with other health issues presents a mixed 26. scenario. Despite previous associations between TRT and a higher risk of prostate cancer, a study published in the December 2015 Journal of Urology indicated that exposure to TRT over a five-year period was not correlated with an increased risk of aggressive prostate cancer. This finding challenges the conventional understanding of TRT’s impact on prostate health and warrants further investigation into the long-term effects of TRT.

TRT’s long-term risks remain a puzzle, given the limited follow-up in many studies. Nonetheless, this shouldn’t deter individuals from exploring TRT as an option. It could still be appropriate for certain individuals.

Who Is a Candidate For TRT In [location_name]?

TRT prescription in Seal Beach necessitates meeting two prerequisites: low testosterone levels (below 600 nanograms per deciliter (ng/dL)) and experiencing various symptoms (refer to page 7). Dr. Hayes emphasizes, “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.”

A standard blood test is commonly employed to assess testosterone levels. Given the fluctuations that can occur daily and the impact of medication and diet, multiple tests are required. Dr. Hayes mentions, “In approximately 30% of cases where the initial testosterone test shows low levels, subsequent tests demonstrate normal levels.”

Even with low testosterone levels and various symptoms, testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) isn’t always the immediate solution. Dr. Hayes advises, “By understanding the root cause of declining levels, we can address it and naturally boost low levels.”

Consider weight gain, for example, often the top cause of decreasing levels. “Weight exerts a greater influence on testosterone levels than aging. With an increase in weight, testosterone levels tend to fall,” she emphasizes. A five-point increase on the body mass index (BMI) scale, like progressing from 30 to 35, equates to adding 10 years to your age in terms of testosterone levels.

“Your doctor should also consider any additional factors that could influence levels, such as medication or medical conditions,” recommends Dr. Hayes. In such scenarios, your doctor might manage the root cause or adjust your medication or dosage to avoid impacting 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.

As an example, sexual health and vitality are frequently highlighted as benefits of TRT. A study in the Feb. 18, 2016 issue of The New England Journal of Medicine explored the impact of TRT on 790 men aged 65 and older. Those administered TRT for a year, as opposed to those on a placebo, noticed enhancements in sexual function, including activity, desire, and erectile function. Nevertheless, the group experienced only a marginal improvement in mood and observed no alterations in walking speed, a measure of TRT’s effect on vitality.

Using TRT

TRT can be administered by either gel application or injection. When using a gel, you spread the daily dose, roughly the size of a ketchup packet, over both upper arms, shoulders, or thighs. Injections are typically given into the buttocks every two weeks.

Each method offers specific advantages. Gels produce consistent 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.

Testosterone levels can spike for a few days following an injection and then taper off, leading to a roller-coaster effect with rising and falling mood and energy levels.

Within four to six weeks, most men ni Seal Beach notice improvement in symptoms, although muscle mass changes can take three to six months.

TRT doesn’t always have to be taken for life. “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.