Planning to take testosterone replacement therapy (TRT)? Here are some facts you should know about Testosterone replacement therapy. You can contact us by visiting our clinic or visiting our website at https://www.urologistbrooklyn.com.

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8 FAQs on TRT

Here are some of the most common FAQs on testosterone replacement therapy you need to know:

1. What is testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) and when do you need it?

Ans. It is a hormone replacement therapy given by doctors to males who suffer from testosterone deficiency who have symptoms of hypogonadism. It is also known as androgen replacement therapy (ART). This therapy can restore testosterone levels in the blood and reverse the symptoms of low testosterone. People notice improvements in several functions after this treatment including alertness, sexual function, energy, mood, and overall well-being.

So, if you experience symptoms of hypogonadism and it affects your life negatively, then you should consider TRT treatment.

2. What are the reasons for hypogonadism in men?

Ans. Hypogonadism is a medical condition that occurs when the body is not able to produce enough testosterone. It is also called testosterone deficiency syndrome, or low testosterone. It caused due to many reasons, like:

• Aging (the most common reason)
• Obesity and weight gain
• Certain medications
• Metabolic disorders
• Type 2 diabetes
• Sleep apnea
• Excess estrogen production
• Excessive smoking and drinking
• Problems with the pituitary gland or hypothalamus
• Certain medical conditions

To diagnose testosterone deficiency, doctors need to check your symptoms and do comprehensive lab tests.

3. How can you get TRT?

Ans. There are several ways you can have TRT. Your doctor helps you choose the best option for you based on your lifestyle and medical needs. Some methods are required daily, while others are needed monthly. It includes:

• Patches: These are easy to apply. You need to attach a patch to the skin more than once a day, however it may cause skin rashes.
• Gels: You need to rub gel on the skin daily and it is convenient to use. However, make sure that no one comes into contact with the treated area for several hours after applying it. Otherwise, they may get testosterone in their system. A nasal gel is also available that eliminates the risk of exposure to others.
• Buccal patch: You need to put this under your upper gum twice a day. These patches are easy to use, however, they can cause irritation or gum disease.
• Injections: Injections are given between 2 to 10 weeks (about 2 and a half months) apart. They are inexpensive compared to other treatments. However, injections may not provide steady benefits because they can’t maintain your testosterone levels in between doses, and they can go down.
• Subcutaneous pellets: Your doctor inserts these under your skin every 3 to 6 months. They are very convenient once they’re put in, however, they only require minor surgery for each dose.

4. Is lifestyle or diet choices the reason for low testosterone in men?

Ans. Yes, certain lifestyle choices like alcoholism, smoking, not being physically active, eating junk foods, not eating healthy foods, lack of sleep, etc. can lead to low testosterone levels in men. However, changing these lifestyle habits can help to maintain testosterone levels in your body.

5. Are there any risks involved with TRT?

Ans. Similar to any other treatment method, there are certain side effects you may experience with TRT. It includes:

• Acne
• Chest pain
• Difficulty breathing
• Speech difficulties
• Low sperm count
• Polycythemia vera
• Lowered good cholesterol
• Swelling in the hands or legs
• Breathing disturbances while sleeping
• Breast swelling and tenderness
• Ankle swells
• Long-term users may have an increased risk of cardiovascular problems.
• May stimulate the growth of prostate cancer cells.

However, in most cases, the benefits outweigh the potential risks, making TRT an excellent choice for many men who suffer from Hypogonadism.

6. Can TRT increase your energy levels?

Ans. The answer is yes, only when your testosterone levels are severely low, and you need TRT to boost hormonal levels. It also boosts your sex drive as well. However, during treatment, your body stops producing testosterone, so stopping the therapy can make a significant difference since testosterone production hasn’t fully recovered.

7. Did you need TRT lifelong?

Ans. Yes, you need to take TRT lifelong as hypogonadism has no cure. So, to manage your symptoms you may need it lifelong.

8. When should you avoid TRT?

Ans. According to the Endocrine Society guidelines, you should not go for TRT if you have prostate cancer. However, some studies also found men who get successfully treated for prostate cancer may be candidates for TRT as long as they are closely watched and monitored for the signs of disease. So, if you are going to start TRT, your doctor should assess your risk for prostate cancer.

Other than that, your doctor may not recommend TRT if you have any of these conditions:

• Obstructive sleep apnea
• Severe congestive heart failure
• Severe lower urinary tract symptoms such as high urinary frequency and urgency, linked with an enlarged prostate, or benign prostatic hyperplasia
• High red blood cell counts

TRT is usually not recommended for treating low testosterone caused by aging.

Testosterone replacement therapy is a good option for men who experience severely low testosterone in the body. It also provides many additional benefits as well. However, like any other treatment method, it also has several side effects and risks. So, before starting the treatment, talk with your doctor to discuss all the pros and cons so that you can decide whether testosterone therapy is good for you or not.

If you need help with testosterone therapy, visit our endocrinology clinic in Brooklyn to get a professional diagnosis and treatment. You can schedule an appointment with Doral Health and Wellness Urology Center’s best urologist in Brooklyn and inquire about your concerns. Our specialists will work with you in managing your condition. To schedule an appointment, please visit us at 1797 Pitkin Avenue, Brooklyn, New York 11212 or call 1-347-384-5690. You can also visit our website at https://www.urologistbrooklyn.com/.