Low Testosterone Therapy
In males, testosterone begins to decline about the time they reach 40. By middle age as much as 30% of men will have a level that qualifies as low; between ages 70 and 80, the percentage with low testosterone rises to 70%.
The period of time a man experiences low testosterone (Low-T) is referred to andropause, often thought of as similar to menopause in women. The “andro” name is derived from the class of hormones testosterone belongs to: Androgens.
Androgen deficiencies are related to common health issues such as obesity, diabetes and insulin malfunctions, high blood pressure and hardening and/or blocking of the arteries. Other issues are elevations in total cholesterol, and LDL, or “the bad” cholesterol and triglycerides. Androgens are believe to protect men’s arteries from atherosclerosis; evidence is emerging that androgen therapy can partially reverse the progression of blockage and hardening in testosterone-deficient males.
Hypogonadism is the medical term for low testosterone with specific symptoms and indicators, including:
- Loss of bone density and muscle mass
- Increasing body percentage of fat
- Osteoporosis
- Diminished vitality and sexual drive
- Erectile dysfunction
- Anemia and frailty
- Depression
- Coronary disease or negative cholesterol profile
Saliva and/or blood tests can measure testosterone levels and hypogonadism sufferers can be treated with hormone therapy. Hormone therapy is also often indicated for men with high estrogen levels and low total testosterone.
TRT (testosterone replacement therapy) is well tolerated by most and can improve the quality of life as well as eradicate related symptoms for many men.
Cardiovascular risk factors also can be positively impacted by TRT, according to findings in a recent study. One popular method of applying testosterone, in a cream used on the skin, can allow adequate amounts to be absorbed, thus mimicking normal daily production.
A healthy lifestyle comes with higher hormone levels, and higher hormone levels generally produce a more active lifestyle.
Male hormone replacement can produce optimum results when combined with other indicated supplements, healthy nutrition and appropriate exercise, all part of a balanced anti-aging problem we offer.
If you would like to learn more about Hormone Replacement Therapy and how it can help improve your life, health and longevity, contact Metro MediSpa’s Age Management and owner, Dr. Connie Odom, M.D.