Testosterone is an essential hormone that plays a crucial role in men's health and wellbeing. As men age, testosterone levels naturally decline leading to a condition called hypogonadism or Low T. Low T has become increasingly common affecting close to 40% of men aged 45 and above. The symptoms of Low T range from low energy, reduced muscle mass, weight gain, depression, erectile dysfunction etc. If left untreated, Low T can significantly impair one's quality of life.
The good news is that Low T is treatable through testosterone replacement therapy (TRT). TRT helps restore testosterone levels enabling men to feel healthy, energetic and youthful again. Read on to learn more about symptoms, diagnosis and TRT treatment for Low T.
Some common signs and symptoms of low testosterone include:
- Decreased energy and chronic fatigue - Increased body fat and reduced muscle mass - Weight gain especially around the abdomen - Loss of body and facial hair - Development of breast tissue (gynecomastia) - Erectile dysfunction - Low sperm count and shrinkage of testicles
- Depression, irritability and mood swings - Lack motivation and difficulty concentrating - Reduced self-confidence
- Insomnia and sleep disturbances - Hot flashes - Osteoporosis leading to increased fracture risk
If you experience any combination of these symptoms, you may be suffering from Low T. Getting diagnosed and treated early is key to regaining your health and preventing long term complications.
Diagnosing low testosterone involves a simple blood test to check your current testosterone levels. This blood test, medically termed as the serum total testosterone test, is usually conducted early in the morning when testosterone production peaks.
Based on your test results and evaluation of symptoms, your doctor will determine if you need TRT. They will also check for any underlying health issues causing low testosterone.
Additional tests may be needed to check for:
New Beginnings HRT Clinic has an on-site lab for diagnostic testing and yearly monitoring of treatment. Our endocrinologists will review your test reports and medical history to determine the best course of treatment.
Restoring optimum testosterone levels through TRT provides a wide range of physical and mental health benefits including:
In summary, TRT can reverse the symptoms of Low T thereby enhancing various aspects of men's health from body composition, endurance to mood.
Testosterone treatments can have some unexpected positive effects. In a double-blind study, men receiving supplemental testosterone reported significant improvements in verbal learning and memory compared to the placebo group after 6 weeks of treatment. Researchers think testosterone amplifies neurotransmitter activity in the hippocampus which is responsible for memory formation.
If low testosterone levels are causing health problems, your doctor will prescribe testosterone replacement therapy (TRT). There are several modes of administering testosterone including:
Testosterone injections, medically known as testosterone cypionate or enanthate injections are the most common TRT option. These intramuscular injections are given once every 1 - 2 weeks to maintain stable testosterone levels. When administered properly, injections are considered safe and highly effective.
Key benefits of testosterone injections: - Most physiologic method of testosterone delivery - Produces stable testosterone levels - Low cost and convenience - Covered by most insurance plans
Our clinic has highly trained nurses to guide you on self administering testosterone injections to make the process smooth and hassle-free.
Testosterone gels and creams provide transdermal delivery through daily application on the upper arms, shoulders or abdomen. Testosterone gets absorbed from the skin into the bloodstream. Topical gels and creams can maintain testosterone levels without spikes and drops experienced with injections. However, transfer of testosterone to partners and children through skin contact is a drawback.
Testosterone pellets, implanted under the skin through a quick in-office procedure provide sustained testosterone release for 3-6 months. As the pellets dissolve, testosterone gets delivered maintaining stable levels without frequent dosing. However, pellets may cause infection or get expelled out in rare cases.
Other TRT options like testosterone patches, oral capsules or nasal gels are also available but not as widely used. Your New Beginnings HRT Clinic doctor will evaluate your health profile and recommend the most appropriate TRT tailored to your lifestyle and needs.
Our state-of-the-art New Beginnings HRT Clinic provides a full range of FDA-approved bioidentical testosterone therapy options including injections, gels, pellets etc.
The process of starting TRT treatment involves:
Initial consultation: Your treatment plan will be customized based on medical history, symptoms evaluation, and diagnostic blood work.
TRT administration: Under guidance from our clinical team, you will be trained on proper self-administration of prescribed testosterone medication.
Follow-up & monitoring: Follow-up blood work and evaluations are done periodically to monitor treatment progress and make dosage adjustments if needed.
It is vital to stick to the treatment and monitoring plan to achieve clinical benefits while minimizing side effects. Our endocrinology experts provide continuous medical guidance and support throughout your treatment journey.
We take pride in delivering truly personalized care focused on optimal health outcomes.
Managing healthy testosterone levels is key to looking and feeling your best regardless of age. In addition to TRT, adopting healthy lifestyle strategies enhances the benefits:
Following an optimal lifestyle regimen along with TRT provides maximum benefits enabling you to feel energized and empowered.
New Beginnings HRT Clinic specializes exclusively in advanced hormone therapy and optimization. With over 15 years of experience, our forward-thinking endocrinologists provide unparallel expertise in managing hormone-related health conditions.
What sets us apart is our commitment to patient education, scientific rigor and outstanding clinical outcomes.
New Beginnings HRT Clinic medical team cares deeply about enhancing patient's health, quality of life and sense of wellbeing. We consider it a privilege to serve the men in our community.
Managing healthy testosterone levels is vital for men's optimal health, vigor and wellbeing regardless of age. If you experience symptoms of Low T such as low energy, diminished strength and sex drive, weight gain and declining mental health, get your testosterone levels checked. Safe, effective treatments are available to reverse testosterone deficiency.
New Beginnings HRT Clinic offers cutting edge testing and testosterone replacement therapy tailored to your unique health needs. Along with TRT, our endocrinology experts provide nutritional and lifestyle guidance for optimal benefits.
We consider it our mission to restore health, reignite energy and revitalize confidence enabling you to thrive and enjoy life to the fullest.