Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) is a treatment prescribed for men with low testosterone levels. The condition wherein there is diminished production of sex hormones is known as hypogonadism. In men, persistently low testosterone potentiates the risk of hypogonadism.
To overcome male hypogonadism, healthcare professionals recommend this testosterone replacement therapy. The therapy involves supplementing or replacing testosterone to replenish levels and bring it within a normal range. Restoration of testosterone alleviates symptoms associated with low testosterone.
Indications of Testosterone replacement therapy
Healthcare professionals typically recommend this type of treatment for males with clinically low testosterone levels. To determine the levels of testosterone in the body, they will suggest several diagnostic evaluation tests. This is generally revealed through blood tests.
When the individual has persistently low levels of testosterone in their body, they develop several symptoms. Since testosterone is the primary sex hormone in males, it plays a pivotal role in carrying out various functions in the body. The decline in its levels impacts overall health and well-being.
This therapy is recommended when the individual is exhibiting the types of symptoms that are given below:
Decreased sex drive (libido)
This therapy aims to restore testosterone levels and bring it within a normal range for men. An increase in testosterone levels may help increase sex drive or libido and sexual desire.
This hormone has a crucial role in regulating sexual function and sex drive in males, so supplementing or replacing testosterone through TRT can enhance sexual desire and improve sexual function.
Erectile dysfunction
For a healthy erectile response, there must be adequate levels of testosterone in the body. Testosterone also plays an essential role in erectile function. Those having low testosterone levels struggle with erection function. Their ability to achieve and sustain erections is impacted.
With the help of TRT, such individuals will be able to regain their ability to attain erections. Their erection function will improve and so their sexual performance.
Fatigue
A decrease in testosterone levels contributes to symptoms such as fatigue, depression, and irritability. This may negatively impact sex drive and sexual desire. As a result, they may fail to perform better sexually.
However, TRT may help overcome these symptoms and enhance mood, energy levels, and overall well-being. As a result, they may experience an increase in sexual interest.
Depression
Testosterone is a mood-regulating hormone. A reduction in its levels can lead to sudden mood changes and make the individual prone to extreme mood disorders like irritability, anger, or, depression. With the help of this therapy, testosterone levels will rise, which in turn elevates the mood and eliminates depressive thoughts and feelings.
Healthy levels of these hormones will improve the overall mood and help attain emotional stability.
Reduction in muscle mass
Testosterone hormone has a significant role in the growth and development of muscle mass. Its decrease can have a negative impact on the muscle mass. TRT can influence muscle mass by stimulating muscle protein synthesis. It helps in building and repairing the muscle fibers.
Apart from that, TRT may also be beneficial in strengthening the muscles and preventing muscle loss. This leads to improvements in muscle strength, function, power, and endurance, which can enhance physical performance.
Low bone density
Individuals with low testosterone are highly susceptible to the possibility of low bone density. They may develop symptoms of osteoporosis, which increases their risk of easy fractures. To prevent bone density loss, the levels of testosterone must be brought in a healthy range with TRT.
When the testosterone levels are restored, it will stimulate the bone formation, preventing the bone loss. Besides, it also regulates bone remodeling, which is a process characterized by the removal of old bone tissues and replacing them with new ones.
Forms of TRT administration
The forms of administering Testosterone replacement therapy are various. Healthcare professionals will examine your health and by considering several factors, they will suggest a suitable treatment method.
TRT can be given through injections, gels, creams, patches, pellets, and buccal tablets. You will be recommended any of these methods based on factors such as patient preference, convenience, and individual needs.
Patient monitoring
Individuals undergoing this treatment have to show up for routine check-ups for regular monitoring. Through this evaluation, the healthcare provider will do the assessments to check whether the treatment is effective.
They will examine the condition and if required, they will make necessary adjustments and modifications to the dosage. In addition to that, they will also monitor for potential side reactions, risks, or complications.
Lifestyle modification
Along with TRT, lifestyle changes such as a balanced diet, regular exercise, adequate sleep, stress management, quitting smoking, excessive alcohol intake, etc. can be beneficial for optimizing the efficacy of treatment. This will ensure overall health and well-being.
