What is Low T?
Low Testosterone or Low T is the decline in the hormone testosterone. The hormone testosterone is produced by the body in both men and women. It plays a key role in fertility and sexual maturation. It also has an impact on sexual desire. When it comes to males, most testosterone is produced in the testes. In females, it is made in the ovaries. Some of the symptoms of low testosterone include: decreased body hair, decreased muscle mass, low sex drive, erectile dysfunction, growth of breast tissue and weight gain.
How Much Does Treating Low T Cost?
The most inexpensive way to treat low T is to make lifestyle changes. Some of the ways to increase testosterone naturally include: High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) exercise, weight training, getting more sleep and losing excess weight. Other ways to treat low T include Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT) injections, patches and topical gels or pills. It is important to note that if you choose to use Testosterone Replacement Therapy, you will need to continue to see a TRT Doctor to maintain hormone levels indefinitely.
How Do They Test You For Low T?
Testosterone levels are measured through blood tests. These tests are usually done in the morning when hormone levels are highest.Your doctor may choose to test you more than once to establish your normal range. As certain drugs can effect your testosterone levels, your doctor may choose to take you off those drugs for a period. Be sure to disclose all medications and supplements that you are taking. The normal ranges for testosterone levels, as released by the Endocrine Society in January 2017, state that the range is between 264-916 nanograms per deciliter in men between 19 and 39 years of age who are not overweight.
What Happens When a Man’s Testosterone is Low?
Since the hormone testosterone is connected to characteristics like increasing muscle bulk, physical strength, bone mass, and the amount of body hair one has, it follows that when a man’s testosterone is low, these characteristics can be effected.
Low Testosterone Therapy Risks and Benefits
Some of the side effects of testosterone replacement therapy include breast enlargement, sleep apnea, acne, increased number of red blood cells and rarely, blood clots. Aome studies have shown that there is an increased risk for heart attack and stroke when receiving TRT. Additionally, there has been some suggestion that there is a link between TRT and prostate cancer. However, the research has not been able to show a strong correlation between the two. Still, there are lingering fears. TRT can renew a man’s sexual interest and performance. It can help a man to maintain an erection. Men using Testosterone Replacement Therapy can also experience improved body composition including reduced belly fat and more muscle. Mineral bone density also increases and the cardiovascular system seems to benefit, as well.
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