According to the American Urology Foundation research, about 25 percent of American men have low testosterone levels. While this male hormone decreases with aging, some men experience serious health and sexual function changes due to low-T.
Let’s talk about testosterone replacement therapy, the common myths related to this men’s health treatment, and where you can go in FL for comprehensive men’s health-related care.
What Are the Symptoms of Low Testosterone?
Low testosterone can cause a wide range of uncomfortable symptoms in men. Other males may be asymptomatic; however, treatment by a men’s health physician is essential to sexual function and overall well-being for those who have persistent discomforts.
The symptoms of low-T can include:
- Low energy
- Poor concentration
- Lack of motivation
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Low libido
- Poor sexual function and erectile dysfunction
- Small testicles
- Increased weight and belly fat
- Lower muscle mass
- Fatigue
- Mood swings
- Hair loss
- Osteoporosis or osteopenia (poor bone density)
Many men with low-T also have comorbidities, such as cardiovascular disease, benign prostatic hypertrophy (BPH), diabetes, obesity, etc. Sadly, many of these people do not seek evaluation and treatment by a men’s health specialist as they are afraid of hormone replacement therapy.
Myths About Testosterone Therapy
While some men can boost their testosterone levels by losing weight, exercising, and taking male-enhancing supplements, others may need prescription testosterone replacement therapy, or TRT, as advised by their men’s health physician. TRT proves to be a Godsend for many males wishing to feel strong and invigorated again when prescribed in the proper dosage and periodically physician-monitored.
Here are some myths about TRT.
Myth #1 TRT causes benign prostatic hypertrophy.
This contrasts with the results obtained by scientific research. BPH, or age-related, non-cancerous overgrowth of the prostate gland, does not escalate upon testosterone supplementation. Also, fears about urinary retention in the bladder are unfounded. Some men on TRT actually experience a more robust urinary stream.
Myth #2 Testosterone therapy increases the risk of heart disease, heart attack, and stroke.
While TRT is indeed steroid therapy, it is given in such low doses that the risks of cardiovascular events are very low, particularly in healthy men. Additionally, the men’s health experts at NIVA Men’s Health closely monitor all their TRT patients to ensure they do not develop any kind of untoward side effects.
Myth #3 Men develop prostate cancer more easily when on testosterone therapy.
There is no conclusive evidence to support this. In fact, PSA levels, the diagnostic assessment for prostate cancer, do not increase upon testosterone supplementation.
Find Out More About Low-T and TRT At NIVA Men’s Health
If you’re experiencing low-T symptoms, learn more about testosterone replacement therapy from the men’s health specialists at one of our area clinics. Your treatment plan will be tailored based on your health, age, and goals.
To know more or schedule an appointment, call one of our locations in Jacksonville, Manalapan, Melbourne, or St. Augustine, FL, or fill out our online appointment request form. We also have locations in Naperville, IL, and Novi, MI.