During Testosterone Therapy, testosterone is applied through patches, gels or injections. This treatment is prescribed to men with low testosterone levels. This is also known as hypogonadism. Male hypogonadism occurs when the testicles do not produce enough testosterone. The symptoms of this condition include a decreased sexual desire, body hair loss, and decreased muscle bulk. The condition is common in men over 60. In fact, 30% of men over age 70 have hypogonadism.
Testosterone is primarily produced in the testicles, but it also affects the size and density of the bones. The hormone also affects the sex drive. However, testosterone therapy is not a cure for erectile dysfunction. It might not be able to help fix the problem, if at all. If you are unsure whether testosterone therapy is right for you, ask your doctor. The Endocrine Society recommends that you get screened for underlying factors before starting testosterone therapy.
Testosterone is also used to treat anemia. It helps to correct anemia caused by iron deficiencies. However, a study shows that testosterone therapy may increase the risk of liver disease. In addition, testosterone may also decrease HDL cholesterol which may have implications for how long the average male can stay erect.
The Endocrine Society recommends that you have two blood tests before you start testosterone therapy. These tests should include a baseline hematocrit check. If your hematocrit is higher than 54%, then testosterone therapy should be paused. In addition, a medical exam should be performed at least once every three to six months to monitor blood levels.
Testosterone therapy can also increase your risk of developing heart disease. A study shows that men who received testosterone therapy had a higher risk of cardiovascular events. Specifically, testosterone therapy increases non-calcified plaque in blood vessels supplying the heart. This can narrow the arteries and increase your risk of clots.
Men should also be monitored for high red blood cell counts. This is a major risk factor for blood clotting. A study shows that testosterone therapy may increase the risk of hepatocellular carcinoma, a type of cancer of the liver. This is because the hormone can increase blood cell levels. In addition, testosterone may be linked to obesity.
Another study shows that testosterone may increase the risk of heart attacks and strokes. It examined pharmacy records of men who had a heart attack. It also examined a group of men who had a heart attack and had previously received testosterone therapy. These men were recruited from the Kaiser Permanente California health care plan. The study was funded by the National Institutes of Health.
The Endocrine Society recommends that testosterone therapy be used only for men who have low levels of testosterone. The hormone has also been shown to increase the size of the prostate. It may be helpful for improving sexual function, but there are no conclusive studies showing that it will improve memory or prevent heart disease.
Although testosterone therapy is beneficial in some ways, there are other treatments that have been proven to be more effective. For example, psychotropic medications can improve mood-related symptoms. Exercise can also be beneficial, as it helps to relieve stress.
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