Testosterone levels can fluctuate over time, especially as we get older. Testosterone exhibits diurnal variation, peaking in the morning between 8-10 am.
Some levels fluctuate so rapidly that many men aren’t even aware that their levels have fallen until they get tested by their physicians, who will recommend testosterone replacement therapy (TRT).
For some men, getting testosterone replacement therapy means scoring with a doctor who isn’t as fast to hand it out as candy. So, what must a man do to secure the treatment that he needs?
To learn what is testosterone replacement therapy, keep reading.
Contents
1. What Is Testosterone?
Testosterone is the primary male sex hormone and an anabolic steroid. In men, testosterone plays a key role in the development of male reproductive tissues. Such as the testes and prostate, as well as promoting secondary sexual characteristics such as increased muscle and bone mass, and the growth of body hair.
Testosterone levels peak during adolescence and early adulthood. As a man ages, his testosterone levels decline, by about 1% a year after he reaches age 30.
2. How Does Testosterone Affect the Body
Testosterone handles the development of secondary sex characteristics, like facial hair, body hair, and muscle mass. It affects the body through symptoms like reduced sex drive, fatigue, mood, low muscle mass, and metabolism.
Low testosterone levels can cause a decline in these functions. TRT can help to restore testosterone levels and improve these functions.
3. What Are the Benefits of Testosterone Replacement Therapy
Testosterone replacement therapy for men can help to improve symptoms by increasing testosterone levels. The most common methods of TRT include injections, patches, and gels. TRT can provide benefits such as increased energy levels, improved libido, increased muscle mass, and improved bone density.
4. Candidate for Testosterone Replacement Therapy
TRT is a medically-prescribed treatment for men who have low levels of testosterone. To be a candidate for TRT, a man must first undergo a blood test to confirm that he has low testosterone levels.
It is important to note that TRT is not a cure for low testosterone levels. And that testosterone levels will decline again after treatment is stopped.
5. What Are the Risks and Side Effects of Testosterone Replacement Therapy
TRT can help to reduce low libido problems by replacing the missing testosterone. But, there are some risks and side effects associated with TRT. These include acne, sleep apnea, enlarged breasts, and reduced sperm count.
Additionally, TRT may increase the risk of heart disease and prostate cancer. Thus, it is important to discuss the risks and benefits of TRT with a doctor before starting treatment.
You Now Know What Is Testosterone Replacement Therapy
Testosterone replacement therapy is an effective way to treat men with low testosterone levels. The therapy can help improve a man’s sex drive, energy levels, and bone density.
It can also help reduce the risk of heart disease and type 2 diabetes. If you think you may benefit from testosterone replacement therapy, talk to your doctor.
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