A New Look At Testosterone Therapy In [location_name]
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In recent years, testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) has surged in popularity in South Ogden. Numerous older men have sought TRT to normalize their hormone levels, hoping to refuel their energy and revitalize their sex drive.
Despite its growing use, TRT remains contentious due to uncertain benefits and potential health risks. Years ago, research suggested a possible link between TRT and an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, raising safety concerns.
Dr. Frances Hayes of Harvard-affiliated Massachusetts General Hospital points out that some of these studies had 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
New scientific findings have affirmed this perspective. A study shared at the 2015 American Heart Association Scientific Sessions involved 1,472 men aged 52 to 63 with low testosterone and no history of heart disease.
Researchers determined that TRT did not lead to a higher likelihood of heart attack, stroke, or death in healthy men.
A study published in the August 2015 Mayo Clinic Proceedings showed no relationship 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.
Additionally, findings from the December 2015 Journal of Urology suggested that exposure to TRT over a five-year period was not associated with an increased risk of aggressive prostate cancer, contradicting previous associations between TRT and prostate cancer.
The uncertainties surrounding the long-term risks of TRT persist due to limited follow-up in many studies. However, this shouldn’t dissuade individuals from considering TRT. It might be a suitable option for specific groups of men.
Who Is a Candidate For TRT In [location_name]?
Meeting two conditions is essential for TRT prescription in South Ogden: low testosterone levels (less than 600 nanograms per deciliter (ng/dL)) and the manifestation of multiple symptoms (see page 7). Dr. Hayes points out, “While low levels can exist without symptoms, if key symptoms such as fatigue and sexual dysfunction are absent, commencing TRT isn’t recommended due to ongoing uncertainties about its long-term safety.”
Evaluating testosterone levels commonly involves a standard blood test. Given their susceptibility to daily fluctuations and influences from medication and diet, multiple tests are necessary. Dr. Hayes highlights, “In roughly 30% of cases with an initial low testosterone test result, subsequent tests demonstrate normal levels.”
Low testosterone levels and various symptoms don’t always require immediate testosterone replacement therapy (TRT). According to Dr. Hayes, “Understanding the reason behind declining levels enables us to tackle it and naturally enhance 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 comparable to adding 10 years to your age concerning testosterone levels.
“Your doctor should also review any other factors that might affect levels, such as medication or medical conditions,” says Dr. Hayes. In these cases, your doctor may address the underlying condition or change your medication or dosage to one that wouldn’t affect testosterone levels.
It’s important for men to realize the constraints of TRT, as it’s commonly portrayed as a wonder drug. “Its effects are usually not as impressive as many might hope,” Dr. Hayes remarks.
Take sexual health and vitality, for example, often cited advantages of TRT. A study published in the Feb. 18, 2016 issue of The New England Journal of Medicine examined the effects of TRT on 790 men aged 65 and older. Those receiving TRT for one year, compared to those on a placebo, witnessed improvements in sexual function, encompassing activity, desire, and erectile function. Nonetheless, the group experienced only a slight mood enhancement and observed no changes in walking speed, a measure of TRT’s impact on vitality.
Using TRT
TRT can be delivered via gel or injection. When using a gel, the daily dose, similar in size to a ketchup packet, is spread over both upper arms, shoulders, or thighs. Injections are given into the buttocks every two weeks.
Both methods provide their own benefits. Gels maintain consistent testosterone levels. “But you should avoid close skin contact for a few hours, particularly with women, since testosterone can cause acne or hair growth,” notes Dr. Hayes.
Injections can cause testosterone levels to surge for a few days before gradually decreasing, leading to a roller-coaster effect with fluctuating mood and energy levels.
Symptom improvement is usually felt within four to six weeks for most men in South Ogden, but muscle mass increases might take three to six months.
TRT isn’t always necessary for life. “If the underlying issue that caused your low testosterone levels is resolved, you should try discontinuing the treatment and consult your doctor for re-evaluation,” says Dr. Hayes.