A New Look At Testosterone Therapy In [location_name]

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Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) has surged in popularity over the last ten years in The Woodlands. A significant number of older men have embraced TRT to normalize their hormone levels, aiming to increase their energy and rekindle their sex drive.

TRT remains a debated issue due to uncertain benefits and potential health risks. Years ago, safety concerns were raised when research suggested a possible connection between TRT and an increased risk of cardiovascular disease.

According to Dr. Frances Hayes from Harvard-affiliated Massachusetts General Hospital, some 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

Recent research supports this stance. Research presented at the 2015 American Heart Association Scientific Sessions involved 1,472 men aged 52 to 63 with low testosterone and no cardiovascular disease history.

The results showed that TRT did not heighten the risk of heart attack, stroke, or death in healthy men.

Research reported 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.

The relationship between TRT and other health issues presents a mixed scenario. Despite earlier associations between TRT and a higher risk of prostate cancer, the December 2015 Journal of Urology published a study finding no increased risk of aggressive prostate cancer with five years of TRT exposure. This finding challenges traditional views and suggests further investigation into TRT’s long-term effects.

The long-term risks of TRT are still unknown, given the limited follow-up in many studies. However, individuals should not disregard TRT as a potential solution, as it may still be suitable for specific cases.

Who Is A Candidate For Trt In The Woodlands?

TRT prescription in The Woodlands 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.”

Measuring testosterone levels often includes a standard blood test. Since these levels can fluctuate daily and are affected by medication and diet, multiple tests are needed. Dr. Hayes points out, “In about 30% of cases with an initial low testosterone test, subsequent tests indicate 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.”

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 other factors that might affect levels, like medication or medical conditions,” recommends Dr. Hayes. In such situations, your doctor might manage the root cause or adjust your medication or dosage to avoid impacting testosterone levels.

Men should comprehend the limitations of TRT, as it’s frequently regarded as a cure-all. “Its outcomes are often not as remarkable as men perceive,” Dr. Hayes explains.

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 provided through gel application or injection. When using a gel, the daily dose, roughly the size of a ketchup packet, is spread over both upper arms, shoulders, or thighs. Injections are typically given into the buttocks biweekly.

Each method has its perks. Gels produce steadier testosterone levels. “However, you must be careful to avoid close skin contact for a few hours, especially with women, as testosterone could cause acne or hair growth,” Dr. Hayes explains.

Following an injection, testosterone levels can rise significantly for a few days and then taper off, resulting in a roller-coaster effect with mood and energy level changes.

Many men in The Woodlands feel an improvement within four to six weeks, although muscle mass increases might take three to six months.

TRT might not be a permanent solution. “If the cause of your low testosterone is resolved, you should try discontinuing the treatment and get re-evaluated by your doctor,” says Dr. Hayes.