When living in Selma, TX, enjoying life without worrying about your health is what every man wants. Unfortunately, dealing with low testosterone can significantly impact your daily life.
Simple activities like taking a walk, exercising, or being intimate with your partner can become challenging due to muscle weakness and fatigue caused by this condition.
This blog will provide you with valuable information and guidance for those interested in learning about testosterone replacement therapy in Selma, TX.
What Is Low Testosterone?
Low testosterone occurs when your body doesn’t produce the required amount of this hormone. It can result from health issues like testicular injuries, pituitary gland problems, or cancer treatment.
Low testosterone can show up in different ways:
- Muscle loss: You might feel weaker and struggle to keep muscles strong.
- Low energy: It could be hard to do daily tasks, and you might feel tired.
- Low sex drive: Your desire for sex might decrease, affecting your relationships.
- Mood swings: You might feel irritable or sad or have trouble focusing.
- Hair loss: Your facial and body hair might thin out.
- Trouble focusing: Low testosterone can make it hard to concentrate.
- Weak bones: It can also lead to weaker bones and a higher risk of fractures.
What is TRT?
Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) is a treatment for low testosterone levels in men. By prescribing testosterone medication, doctors aim to bring testosterone levels back to normal, reversing the effects of low testosterone. It is said that after this therapy, patients mostly experience better alertness, sexual function, energy levels, mood, and overall health.
Am I a Candidate for TRT?
Doctors prescribe TRT to men having symptoms like fatigue, breast growth, or sexual problems.
But TRT isn’t usually the first treatment for low testosterone, even if someone has these symptoms. If other health issues or medications are causing low testosterone, doctors focus on treating those first before considering TRT.
What are the Benefits of TRT?
1. Improve energy levels, reduce fatigue, and boost vitality.
2. Maintain and increase muscle mass, making you active and physically stronger.
3. TRT may improve mood, reduce irritability, and help with symptoms of depression or anxiety associated with low testosterone.
4. It can also help improve sex drive, erectile dysfunction, and overall sexual satisfaction.
5. Maintain bone density by reducing the risk of osteoporosis and fractures.
6. Some studies suggest that TRT may enhance cognitive abilities such as memory and concentration.
7. Addressing the symptoms of low testosterone can give you a better quality of life and overall well-being.
Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT) Options in Selma, TX
The healthcare providers in Selma, TX, are attentive to the increasing interest in testosterone replacement therapy. There are various options for those thinking about TRT, each with advantages and things to consider.
1. Topical/Transdermal
Transdermal gels and creams are popular because they’re easy to use. You apply them daily to clean, dry skin, like your shoulders or abdomen, and the testosterone is absorbed directly into your bloodstream. This method helps ensure the consistent release of testosterone throughout the day.
Local pharmacies and compounding pharmacies in Selma offer a variety of brands and formulations, so you can choose one that fits your routine and preferences.
2. Injections
Testosterone injections are given either weekly or every two weeks, depending on the specific type prescribed by your doctor. These are typically injected into a muscle, such as the buttocks, and provide a rapid increase in testosterone levels. Many people find injections convenient and cost-effective.
3. Patches
Testosterone patches are applied directly to the skin, usually on the back, abdomen, or upper arms, and are changed daily. They help with a steady dose of testosterone over time, making them a straightforward option for TRT.
4. Pellets
Testosterone pellets are small, cylindrical implants placed under the skin, normally near the hip. They slowly release testosterone into the body over three to six months, eliminating the need for daily or weekly treatments. While less commonly used, pellets provide a long-term solution for those seeking a low-maintenance approach to TRT.
5. Oral Testosterone
Oral Testosterone is a less popular type of testosterone replacement therapy (TRT). It’s more on the costlier side. Long-term use may also harm the liver.
Many oral testosterone tablets come with warnings about possible side effects like high blood pressure and stroke. Because of these risks, people usually choose oral testosterone only if they can’t use other forms of TRT.
Doctors usually prescribe a dosage between 225 and 396 mg; the tablets are usually suggested to be taken twice daily.
6. Intranasal
Intranasal testosterone is a gel applied inside the nose. It should be used three times a day, spaced 6-8 hours apart, ideally at the same times every day. Each dose is typically 11 mg per nostril, totaling 33 mg daily.
Common side effects may include headaches, nosebleeds, a runny nose, and nasal discomfort.
What Can I Expect from TRT?
TRT aims to restore testosterone levels back to normal. Your blood testosterone levels might improve in about a week, but symptoms can take longer to improve.
You might also notice other benefits, like stronger bones and muscles and having more energy and interest in activities. These changes could take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months to see.
Unless there’s a medical reason, TRT is usually a lifelong treatment. Your medical professional will monitor your progress with regular checkups, at least every 6 to 12 months, to check your testosterone levels.
How Much Does TRT Cost?
TRT can cost approximately between $100 to $450 each month. However, the price depends on various things like:
- the type of treatment,
- dosage required, and
- whether your health insurance covers it.
Side Effects and Warnings of TRT to be Aware Of
The FDA warns that the safety and benefits of TRT for age-related low testosterone levels aren’t fully understood. Testosterone products must carry warnings about potential risks like stroke and heart disease.
Research from 2019 suggests that TRT may increase the risk of cardiovascular events like stroke, but more studies are needed to confirm this.
However, other possible side effects of testosterone treatment may include:
- Skin issues like rashes, itching, and acne
- Hair changes such as male pattern baldness or excessive growth
- Anxiety and irritability
- Bladder problems and priapism (prolonged erection)
- Blood clotting issues like deep vein thrombosis
- Mood changes like anger and aggression
- Breast tenderness or enlargement (gynecomastia)
- High blood pressure and prostate size increase
- Lower sperm production and testes shrinkage
- Liver problems and high cholesterol levels (though some studies suggest TRT might improve cholesterol)
- TRT can worsen breast and prostate cancer in some cases, but it might benefit early-stage prostate cancer without causing recurrence or progression.
Who Should Avoid TRT?
1. Obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA): People with severe OSA should be cautious with TRT. It can affect the airways and metabolism, leading to low tissue oxygen levels (hypoxia). This can cause symptoms like confusion, difficulty breathing, and rapid heart rate.
TRT may also lead to hypercapnia, where carbon dioxide levels in the blood rise, potentially causing respiratory acidosis and symptoms like fatigue or a strong desire to sleep.
2. Severe lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS): These symptoms, including urinary frequency and urgency, can worsen with TRT, especially in cases of an enlarged prostate or benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).
Testosterone’s growth effects on the prostate can worsen LUTS, even though it may reduce prostate inflammation.
3. Elevated hematocrit levels and thrombophilia: TRT can increase the count of red blood cells, resulting in thicker blood and raising the risk of blood clots, stroke, and ischemia. This is particularly concerning for individuals with already elevated hematocrit levels or thrombophilia.
4. Prostate cancer or high prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels: TRT can stimulate the growth of prostate cancer cells, so it’s avoided in individuals with a history of prostate cancer or high PSA levels.
5. Ischemic stroke and cardiovascular risks: Research indicates a potential higher risk of cardiovascular issues, including ischemic stroke, in individuals using TRT, especially in older age groups or those with existing cardiovascular conditions. This risk needs careful consideration before starting TRT.
Conclusion
Testosterone replacement therapy can improve health and vitality for Low T patients. There are numerous treatment choices in Selma, and ReUp Men’s Clinic is here to assist.
Our experienced healthcare providers can guide you through TRT options, helping you find the right fit for your lifestyle and well-being. Take the first step towards understanding your health and the potential benefits of TRT by reaching out to us.
Contact us for more information and to schedule a consultation 210-314-1088 at ReUp Men’s Clinic today
