By Kathy V. Verdes, APRN, A-GNP-C
June is Men’s Health Month, an annual opportunity to raise awareness about preventable health issues and encourage early detection and treatment among men and boys. One key focus area is declining testosterone levels, which can have wide-ranging impacts on male health and vitality.
Testosterone is the primary male sex hormone. It plays a crucial role in male sexual and reproductive function, but also influences muscle mass, fat distribution, red blood cell production, and bone health. After age 30, most men begin experiencing a gradual decline in testosterone. By age 70, the decrease in testosterone levels can lead to deficiency symptoms in some men.
Signs and Symptoms of Low Testosterone
Common symptoms associated with low testosterone include:
. Low sex drive
. Erectile dysfunction
. Depressed mood
. Difficulty concentrating
. Fatigue and lack of energy
. Loss of muscle mass and strength
. Increased body fat
. Breast development (gynecomastia)
. Thinning of bones (osteoporosis)
While a certain decline in testosterone is a normal part of aging, some men experience a more significant drop, leading to a condition called hypogonadism or low testosterone. This can result from dysfunctions in the testes, pituitary gland, or hypothalamus which control testosterone production.
Benefits of Testosterone Replacement Therapy
For men diagnosed with low testosterone by a blood test, testosterone replacement therapy can provide significant benefits by restoring hormone levels to the normal range. Potential benefits include:
Increased Muscle Mass and Strength: Testosterone plays a key role in building and maintaining muscle mass. Low levels make it extremely difficult to build muscle, while replacement therapy increases lean muscle and strength.
More Energy: The fatigue and lack of stamina associated with low testosterone is often relieved with proper treatment, providing a renewed sense of vitality.
Better Mood: Low testosterone often coincides with irritability, depression, and poor concentration. Replacement therapy can help stabilize mood and mental clarity.
Improved Libido and Sexual Function: Perhaps the most well-known benefit, testosterone therapy has been shown to increase sexual desire and help reverse erectile dysfunction related to low hormone levels.
Boosted Bone Density: Testosterone increases bone density during puberty and helps maintain it throughout life. Therapy can help prevent or restore bone loss from osteoporosis.
Reduced Body Fat: While not a sure path to weight loss, testosterone can shift the body’s proportion of fat to lean muscle mass when combined with a healthy diet and exercise.
Other Benefits: There’s also evidence that testosterone therapy can provide protection against heart disease, cognitive decline, anemia, and insulin resistance in diabetics.
Getting Testosterone Replacement Therapy
If you are experiencing potential symptoms of low testosterone, the first step is to get a simple blood test to check your levels. Prepared for Men’s Health Month, doctors are ready to test and diagnose any deficiencies.
For those diagnosed with low testosterone by their doctor, there are several different delivery methods for testosterone replacement therapy approved by the FDA:
. Gels or patches applied to the skin
. Injections given every 1-2 weeks
. Pellets implanted under the skin every 3-6 months
. Oral medications
The different delivery methods can affect how quickly testosterone enters the bloodstream and maintains normal levels. Your doctor will work with you to find the safest and most effective approach based on your specific needs.
Potential Side Effects and Risks
While testosterone replacement therapy can have tremendous benefits, it also carries some risks if not properly monitored and adjusted. Excessive or poorly controlled therapy can potentially lead to:
. Polycythemia (too many red blood cells)
. Acne or other skin reactions
. Sleep apnea
. Enlarged prostate
. Acceleration of pre-existing prostate cancer
However, the latest research shows that when therapy is dosed and monitored appropriately, these risks are low for otherwise healthy men. Following your doctor’s orders for therapy and attending regular checkups is essential for safe and effective results.
This Men’s Health Month, don’t ignore depleted testosterone levels and the toll it can take on your overall vitality, energy, and wellbeing. See your doctor to get tested, and if diagnosed with low testosterone or hypogonadism, discuss therapeutic options that could help you reclaim peak physical, sexual, and mental performance. With proper treatment, you can Celebrate Men’s Health Month by feeling like your best, most virile self again.
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NAPLES CLINIC
7385 Radio Road; Ste., 104, Naples FL 34104
(239) 384-9392
www.Naples-Clinic.com