testosterone
∙5 minute read
As you age, your testosterone levels decline. Relax, this is completely normal. They typically only drop by around 1% per year from the age of 40, but this gradual decline can have a significant impact.
Decreased testosterone can cause tiredness, lack of energy, reduced strength, frailty, loss of libido, decreased sexual performance, depression, and mood change. These symptoms have a destructive impact on your everyday life. Some men combat this with testosterone replacement therapy (TRT). Celebrities such as Joe Rogan have openly discussed the benefits of the treatment.
It’s becoming an increasingly popular method of regaining testosterone. But before you commit to TRT, you should know what it actually involves and whether it’s right for you. Let’s take a look.
Testosterone replacement therapy is a form of hormone enhancement where testosterone is supplemented or replaced. If you’re eligible, you’ll be given prescription testosterone that restores your testosterone to normal levels. You should feel more energetic, an increased libido, and sometimes you’ll notice an improved mood.
The treatment has potentially life-changing effects but there are risks too. It’s up to you to weigh up the risks against the benefits and decide if you want the treatment.
Most people who are recommended TRT suffer from hypogonadism, although having this condition isn’t a requirement for receiving treatment. TRT is a reasonable course of action for anyone with low testosterone levels, especially those who notice a significant change in their body.
However, TRT has been linked to some risks. It can induce blood changes, including elevated haematocrit that can increase the risk of developing blood clots, potentially accelerating the growth of a pre-existing prostate cancer, reduction in sperm count and testicular shrinkage. Some men also suffer from minor side effects, mainly acne and breast swelling.
For many men with low testosterone, the benefits of TRT generally outweigh the risks. Most men who receive the treatment have no major side effects and experience an overall boost to their health. If you do decide to take treatment, it's important to ensure you are getting it from a reputable and regulated provider and stay in frequent contact with a medical professional to monitor how your body reacts.
Testosterone is key for maintaining sexual libido, energy levels, muscular strength, lean body mass, and cardiovascular health. It’s also been linked to mood, state of well-being, and other psychological factors. Basically, healthy testosterone levels are vital for your physical and mental health.
There are many psychological and physiological symptoms of low testosterone. The most common are:
Low sex drive
Sleep problems such as insomnia
Decrease in muscle size and strength
Increase in body fat
Depression
Trouble concentrating
If you notice any of these symptoms, go to a doctor for an examination. You can also take our Complete Blood Test for an in-depth look into your overall health.
Take control of your testosterone levels. If you notice any of the symptoms for low testosterone, get checked out. Once you’ve discovered the results, it’s easier to make an informed choice on your course of action.
