Low testosterone, also called hypogonadism or hypotestosteronemia, is a condition where the body does not produce enough of the hormone testosterone. This can occur in both men and women and has significant health implications if left untreated. Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) can safely and effectively treat low testosterone. This article will provide an overview of the causes, symptoms, diagnosis and different treatment options for low testosterone - with a focus on testosterone therapy specifically.
There are several potential causes of low testosterone:
In many cases the cause of low testosterone is unknown - but the symptoms and health risks make treatment essential regardless.
Many signs and symptoms can indicate low testosterone levels including:
Not every man experiences all these symptoms, and they often develop gradually over years. Testing testosterone levels with a simple blood test is essential for diagnosis.
If the signs and symptoms suggest low testosterone, a diagnosis should be made before considering treatment options.
Diagnostic testing measures the level of circulating testosterone in the bloodstream. This requires blood to be drawn from the arm. It may also test levels of:
Testing is typically done in the early morning when testosterone levels are highest.
Levels considered low depend partly on age - testosterone falls gradually but naturally with aging. Guidelines generally agree treatment should be considered when total testosterone is below 300 ng/dl or free testosterone is less than 5-9 pg/ml. However, some men feel poorly at higher levels, so treatment may be appropriate based on symptoms too.
Further medical evaluation may be needed to diagnose the underlying cause of low testosterone, direct treatment options, and rule out potential complications.
Once low testosterone is diagnosed, raising levels through testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) can provide significant benefits. When properly administered, TRT is safe for long-term use.
The goal of treatment is reaching normal healthy levels, not super-high levels. This requires regular re-testing and monitoring because each man responds differently.
Benefits of TRT may include:
Treatment options must be individualized and supervised by a knowledgeable physician, as inappropriate use does pose some health risks.
Options for testosterone replacement currently include:
Testosterone injections, or testosterone shots, directly supply the testosterone hormone into circulation. This provides an immediate rise in testosterone levels which then slowly falls until the next injection.
Advantages of injections include:
Testosterone is thick and delays absorption, so injections are typically administered every 7 to 14 days. This can be inconvenient but ensures stable hormone levels.
The common injection sites are into the buttocks or thigh muscles. The needles are small, and most men experience only mild discomfort. Sometimes local numbing cream is used.
Testosterone should only be injected by a trained medical professional - incorrect self-injection risks infection or shared needles might transmit blood diseases.
Potential side effects of testosterone injections include:
Monitoring mitigates risks as dosage can be adjusted based on level measurements and side effects.
Overall testosterone shots are very effective at restoring normal hormone levels.
Applying testosterone creams or gels allows absorption through the skin. This is convenient, painless and easy to administer daily at home.
Testosterone levels increase gradually after application hitting a peak around 4 hours later. Levels then slowly decline until the next dose. Multiple doses may be needed daily.
These provide a natural ebb/flow in hormones but testosterone levels can be inconsistent and difficult to control compared to injections. Intake also varies based on sweating and showering.
Using the upper arm, back and abdomen for application ensures consistent absorption over time.
Potential side effects are similar to testosterone injections but the risk is lower. Creams or gels containing DHT blockers may reduce the risk of prostate complications.
Testosterone treatment gels and creams include brands like Androgel, Fortesta, Testim, and Axiron.
Similar to gels/creams, testosterone patches provide transdermal delivery allowing absorption through skin. However, patches offer the convenience of direct application at the treatment site.
The patch adhesive contains testosterone medication which gradually penetrates into circulation delivering a sustained dose over 24 hours. Patches are typically changed daily.
Using patches avoids the frequent applications of gels/creams but skin irritation at the site is more common. Absorption can still vary.
Testosterone patches such as Androderm perform similar to other transdermal methods delivering improved sexual function, muscle mass and energy levels. However, varying skin reactions often lead to inconsistent dosing.
Testosterone pellet implants offer a unique long-lasting delivery method for Low T therapy. Numerous tiny testosterone pellet are injected under the skin - typically around the hips or buttocks.
The pellets slowly dissolve releasing consistent testosterone levels directly into surrounding tissues for absorption. This maintains stable testosterone levels in the optimal range for 3-6 months before requiring replacement.
Pellet implants involve a quick, relatively painless procedure administered by a doctor. The testosterone release is convenient avoiding daily skin applications. Levels cannot be adjusted until repeat implant.
While convenient long-term therapy, potential side effects are similar to testosterone injections. Some additional risks from the implantation procedure include infection, pellet extrusion and scar tissue formation.
For men seeking steady testosterone delivery with less application burden, implants may be an excellent treatment option.
When considering testosterone treatment, understanding the health implications is essential:
The risks versus benefits must be weighed individually between patient and provider.
DeLand, Florida enjoys beautiful sunny weather year-round making outdoor activity appealing for residents and visitors. The summer rainy season brings highs around 90 F° while winter remains mild.
This pleasant climate suits testosterone therapy well. Consistent sunlight exposure promotes vitamin D activating hormones. The area also offers many locations to enjoy walking and other exercise important for results.
Several medical laboratories operate in DeLand providing testing facilities critical for testosterone treatment monitoring including:
TRT patients require dedication to lifestyle choices optimizing treatment results. Some facilities supporting fitness goals include:
The local parks and beaches allow peace and relaxation to reduce anxiety supporting mental health too.
Considering treatment for low testosterone? Contact a knowledgeable physician to explore your options. Consistent testing is critical - DeLand offers convenient locations. If Low T therapy is appropriate, restoring healthy testosterone through established providers ensures regular monitoring while lifestyle choices boost positive outcomes. Reclaim motivation, strength and joy by addressing low testosterone today with the compassionate support of a trusted clinic.
