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As we age, our levels of testosterone can start to wane somewhat. For some though, levels can drop too much and hormone replacement treatments may be required to feel your best.
What Actually Is Testosterone?
Simply put, testosterone, which is primarily produced in the testicles, is a hormone that helps men to maintain all of the following:
- Sperm production
- one density
- Sex drive
- Fat distribution
- Red blood cell production
- Muscle mass and strength
- Body and facial hair
We generally see a peak in testosterone levels around adolescence and early adulthood before it starts to decline around the age of 30 or 40 by around 1% each year.
What Are the Symptoms of Low Testosterone that Testosterone Therapy Can Treat?
When men begin to lose healthy testosterone levels more rapidly than should be expected for their age, this creates an issue known as low T (low testosterone). There are common symptoms of low T that are often found such as:
- Hot flashes
- Erectile dysfunction
- Weight gain
- Changes to sex drive
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Sleep difficulties
- Decrease in sperm count
Some times men can also find that their breasts swell somewhat while others can see changes to the size of their testicles and penis.
What Are the Benefits of the Treatment?
The overall purpose of testosterone therapy is to aid in restoring healthy levels of testosterone and to treat the issues that low T causes. Some of the benefits of testosterone replacement treatment include:
- Increase in sperm count
- Increase in sex drive
- Improved symptoms of ED
- Improvements in mood
- Improved in energy
How Is Testosterone Replacement Performed?
There are a few different forms of testosterone supplements available. Your doctor will be able to advise you best on exactly what will be best for you. All of the following can help to improve testosterone levels and/or treat specific symptoms of low T:
- Injections and implants: Testosterone can be injected straight into the muscles, or either implanted into the soft tissues as pellets. In both cases, the testosterone is then absorbed into the bloodstream.
- Skin patches: Patches can be worn on the arm or the upper body. They should be applied once per day.
- Mouth patches: special tablets stick to the upper gums, continually releasing testosterone into the blood.
- Gels: Gels are available that are absorbed directly into the skin when applied once per day.
If you think you might be suffering from low testosterone, you should consult with a medical professional to see what treatment options are best for you.
