A recent study has revealed that nearly 25 percent of men over the age of 30 have low testosterone levels. While your testosterone levels are naturally going to decline as you grow older, sudden changes to your hormones could produce a variety of unwanted side effects. Here is a closer look at some of the benefits of testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) and a few signs that this treatment might be right for you.
Testosterone Levels and Aging
Around the age of 30, your testosterone levels will most likely begin to drop. This hormonal change is perfectly natural, but it can have an impact on your physical and mental health. Your testosterone plays a key role in many different biological functions, and that is why you should have your hormone levels tested once every few years as you grow older. You should also schedule a blood test if you have recently noticed any sudden changes to your physical health or cognitive abilities.
Signs of Low Testosterone
The most common side effect of low testosterone is a sudden drop in your energy levels. Many people who have low testosterone will struggle to get through the day or find it nearly impossible to complete a workout. You might begin to notice changes to your body as well. When your testosterone levels plummet, you are going to lose muscle and gain fat. Most patients also struggle with sexual difficulties including a reduced sex drive.
Benefits of TRT
Testosterone replacement therapy has become very popular over the last few years, and it is going to impact almost every facet of your life if you have low testosterone. Within a month or two of your first treatment, you will probably notice a drastic change to your energy levels and demeanor. As your hormone levels begin to balance out, your cognitive abilities are going to improve as well.
Administering Testosterone
There are a few different ways to administer testosterone, and each method has its own pros and cons. Testosterone injections are relatively popular because they only need to be administered once or twice a month, but you will need to head to the doctor for every treatment. Testosterone patches are another popular option, and these devices are placed directly on the skin in an inconspicuous area such as the upper arm. The biggest disadvantage of testosterone patches is the fact that they must be reapplied every day. Be sure to talk to your doctor about the best method of administration for you and your situation.
Before having TRT carried out, a doctor will need to test your blood and carry out a comprehensive physical exam. Testosterone replacement therapy is extremely effective, but you want to be absolutely sure that you don’t have any underlying health issues that are impacting your hormone levels.
Image by MARIO OLAYA from Pixabay
