Male hypogonadism, a condition characterized by low levels of testosterone, can significantly impact a man’s overall health and well-being. Testosterone plays a crucial role in various bodily functions, including developing male sexual characteristics, muscle mass maintenance, bone density regulation, and overall energy levels. Testosterone replacement therapy in West Chester has emerged as a treatment option for men experiencing hypogonadism, aiming to restore testosterone levels to a normal range and alleviate associated symptoms.
However, the decision to pursue TRT requires careful consideration of its potential benefits, risks, and individualized treatment plans under the guidance of a healthcare professional.
Diagnosis
Earlier detection in boys can help control problems from delayed puberty. Early diagnosis and therapeutic in men offer better security against osteoporosis and other related diseases.
Your health care provider will perform a physical exam and note whether your sexual development, like your pubic hair, muscle mass, and size of your testes, is compatible with your age.
Your provider will test your blood level of testosterone if you have indications or symptoms of hypogonadism. Because testosterone levels change and are typically highest in the morning, blood testing is generally done early in the day, before 10 a.m., maybe on more than one day.
If tests verify that you have low testosterone, additional testing can decide if a testicular disorder or a pituitary abnormality is the cause. These studies might include:
- Hormone testing
- Semen analysis
- Pituitary imaging
- Genetic studies
- Testicular biopsy
Treatment
Adult men
Male hypogonadism is generally treated with testosterone replacement to return testosterone levels to normal. Testosterone can assist in countering the signs and symptoms of male hypogonadism, like reduced sexual desire, decreased energy, decreased facial and body hair, and loss of muscle mass and bone density.
For older men who have low testosterone and indications and symptoms of hypogonadism due to aging, the advantages of testosterone replacement are less clear. While you’re taking testosterone, the Endocrine Society recommends that your healthcare provider monitor you for treatment effectiveness and side effects several times during your first year of treatment and yearly after that.
Types of testosterone replacement therapy
Oral testosterone preparations are not recommended for the treatment of hypogonadism due to their potential to cause serious liver problems, as well as their inability to maintain steady testosterone levels.
The lymph system absorbs testosterone undecanoate in one Food and Drug Administration-approved oral testosterone replacement preparation (Jatenzo). It might bypass the liver problems seen with other oral forms of testosterone.
Further preparations you might choose, depending on comfort, cost, and your insurance coverage, contain:
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Gel.
There are different gels and solutions available that can be used without any restrictions. Depending on the brand, you can apply testosterone by rubbing it onto the skin of your upper arm or shoulder (AndroGel, Testim, Vogelxo) or by using it on the front and inner thigh (Fortesta).
Your body absorbs testosterone through your skin. Don’t shower or bathe for several hours after a gel application to be sure it gets absorbed.
Side effects include skin irritation and the chance of transferring the medication to another person. Avoid skin-to-skin contact until the gel is dehydrated, or protect the area after an application.
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Injection.
Testosterone cypionate and enanthate are administered into the muscle or under the skin. Your signs might delay between doses depending on the frequency of injections.
You or a family member can understand how to give testosterone injections at home. If you’re discomfiting giving yourself injections, a member of your care team can provide the injections.
Testosterone undecanoate (Aveed) is given by intramuscular severe injection, generally every ten weeks. It must be presented at your provider’s office and can have severe side effects.
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Gum and cheek (buccal cavity).
A putty-like substance called gum-and-cheek testosterone replacement delivers testosterone to your body through the natural depression above your top teeth, where your gum meets your upper lip (buccal cavity). This product must be taken three times daily and sticks to your gumline. It allows testosterone to be absorbed into your bloodstream. However, it can cause gum irritation.
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Nasal.
Natesto is a testosterone gel that can be applied to the nostrils. This delivery option carries a lower risk of transferring the medication to another person through skin contact. However, the nasal-delivered testosterone must be applied twice in each nostril, three times daily. This may be more inconvenient compared to other delivery methods.
Final Words
Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) offers a potential avenue for individuals experiencing low testosterone levels to regain vitality and address associated symptoms. While it can be highly beneficial when administered under medical supervision, it’s crucial to approach TRT carefully, considering its risks and benefits.
Personalized treatment plans, regular monitoring, and open communication with healthcare providers remain pivotal to ensuring the effectiveness and safety of TRT. As with any medical intervention, informed decision-making and collaboration with professionals are crucial to optimizing the outcomes and enhancing the quality of life for those considering or undergoing TRT.
