It is common to face some or several health issues as we age. For example, low testosterone is one of the effects of aging that men face, which results in low energy levels and other health problems. Testosterone replacement therapy, or TRT, is one of the effective ways to restore the hormone naturally.
Treating low T issues can make a remarkable difference in day-to-day life. Unfortunately, although testosterone treatment brings back vitality and health, it is surrounded by misconceptions that hinder people from going for the therapy.
This article shall discuss all the potential risks and benefits associated with testosterone therapy. It will help you understand its basics and when to seek help.
Symptoms of Low Testosterone
Everyone doesn’t need to encounter the same symptoms. Since human bodies are different, the signs may vary from person to person. These are the signs of low testosterone in the human body.
- Reduced muscle strength
- Low bone density
- Swelling in the breasts or feeling tenderness
- Difficulty in achieving erections
- Gaining body fat
- Lack of concentration
- Having difficulty sleeping
- Lack of confidence
- feeling tired most of the time.
- Getting hot flashes
- Reduced interest in sexual activity
- Not able to maintain erections
- Loss of hair on the body
- Reduced hemoglobin
- Signs of mild anemia
- Feeling irritable and moody
- Depression
The Benefits of Testosterone Replacement Therapy
Hypogonadism, or low testosterone levels in the human body, can lead to adverse effects, and people might find it difficult to perform simple functions in their everyday lives.
The condition comes with several symptoms that one can identify in the early stages, although it might go unnoticed in some people. Before going to the benefits, let’s look at the symptoms of low T.
The Advantages of Testosterone Therapy
Let’s now take a look at all the potential benefits of undergoing testosterone replacement therapy.
Improved Sex Drive: It is one of the several benefits of the therapy that lets men obtain and maintain erections more easily. It also enables them to perform better in their sex life.
Better Mood: The treatment helps to uplift your mood and bring positivity to your life. It helps in maintaining overall well-being by reducing irritability and fatigue. It also reduces the chances of depression.
Improved Ability to Maintain Body Weight: Increased testosterone in the system aids in weight maintenance. It prevents you from gaining excess fat and keeps you fit and strong. It also helps strengthen bone mass.
Improved Energy Levels: An increase in energy levels is one of the best benefits of the therapy. You can do more in your life with improved energy levels and lead a better quality of life.
Better Cognitive Function: Testosterone helps your brain function properly. It helps with critical thinking and better concentration.
Improved Sleep Quality: You will have a better sleep with an increase in testosterone levels. Quality sleep is one of the essential aspects of life that keeps our body and brain healthy.
Reduced Risk of Diabetes: Better body functions and insulin promotion help keep a check on diabetes. Testosterone lets your body regulate blood sugar levels.
Low T Treatment Methods
A certified medical professional who specializes in testosterone therapy will prescribe the mode of treatment depending on the severity of the case. Below are several methods of testosterone replacement therapy.
Testosterone gels: You rub these on your skin, and they get absorbed into your bloodstream. It is one of the most convenient ways to get testosterone treatment.
Subcutaneous pellets: Your doctor will insert these under your skin via a minor surgery, and they require replacement every 3 to 6 months.
Buccal Patch: The patches are put under your upper gums, and you have to replace them twice a day. It has the risk of irritating the gums or causing gum disease.
Injections: You get the hormone directly into your bloodstream with injections. It is the quickest way to get them into your system. You will need to take the injection every 2 to 10 weeks.
Patches: The treatment is also available in patch form that is easy to apply. You might need to replace it several times a day.
Testosterone Therapy’s Potential Risks
Although testosterone therapy has some major advantages, it also has some risks associated with it. Seeking professional help is the best way to reduce and avoid these risks and reap the benefits of the treatment. Here are some of the potential risks associated with the therapy.
- People with a high chance of developing prostate cancer should avoid the treatment. It boosts the risk of acquiring cancer and makes them high-risk candidates.
- If the prostate enlarges, there is a risk of severe urinary symptoms if the person has a track record of urinary infections.
- Heart attack patients should avoid going for the treatment as it will worsen their condition and put them at risk of another attack or a stroke.
- Acne and oily skin are the most common risks associated with treatment. A certified doctor will prescribe the necessary medications to avoid these symptoms.
- The therapy can also lead to low sperm count and infertility if not performed by a specialist. Therefore, it is highly necessary to seek the help of professionals for testosterone therapy.
Seeking the Help of A Specialist
You must consult a professional and get a full diagnosis of your health condition before undergoing testosterone replacement therapy. The doctor will perform a thorough assessment and prescribe the treatment if necessary.
It is highly important to clarify everything with your doctor about whether you require the treatment and the mode of therapy they will use. The doctor will only ask you to undergo the treatment if they deem it necessary.
Final Thoughts
Low testosterone levels are a natural condition that occurs with aging. Seeking help and undergoing testosterone therapy, if needed, can significantly improve your quality of life. Simple lifestyle changes can also avoid the risk of developing low T issues later in life.
It is also crucial to remember that you should always consult a specialist before undergoing treatment. You should understand the benefits and the potential risks to avoid any kind of complication.
