Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) is gaining traction. We know more than ever about the role that low testosterone can play in declining male health.
Men with dipping testosterone levels often experience these symptoms:
- Low sex drive
- Erectile dysfunction (ED)
- Depressive mood
- Fatigue
- Irritability
- Weight gain
- Reduced lean muscle mass
- Brittle bones
- Hot flashes
- Infertility
Yes, low testosterone can make you look, feel, and act differently than you did when your testosterone levels were in the normal range. Having low testosterone doesn’t necessarily mean that something is “wrong” with you. However, it does mean that your testosterone levels are creating undesirable side effects that could potentially create health problems as you age. For instance, low testosterone is linked with increased risk for developing coronary artery disease (CAD).
The truth is that testosterone production dips for all men starting at around age 30. The decline is simply more dramatic, noticeable, and devastating for some men. This is where testosterone replacement may need to come into the picture to help you stabilize your biology. TRT is a form of hormone replacement therapy that has been used by millions of men.
Are you looking for a TRT clinic near Denver? Eliv8 MD is the preferred TRT clinic in Louisville, CO for men seeking expert advice for how to treat low testosterone. We stress the importance of only seeking any type of hormone replacement therapy from reputable, licensed healthcare providers. Patient education is always a priority for us here at Eliv8 MD. As someone looking for information about TRT, you undoubtedly have many questions about what this therapy could mean for your quality of life. Take a look at a quick “beginner’s guide” to TRT that will answer many of the basic questions surrounding this treatment.
What Is TRT?
TRT is a form of hormone replacement therapy that was developed to help restore healthy testosterone levels for men suffering from low testosterone. TRT specifically uses a bioidentical synthetic hormone replacement that functions just like the testosterone that is naturally produced by the body. This is why TRT is generally a well-tolerated treatment. Currently, TRT can be prescribed to treat testosterone deficiency, andropause, and male hypogonadism. One of the big misconceptions about TRT is that it’s only for older men. It’s true that most men who need TRT are over the age of 50. However, this treatment is available for younger men who are struggling with low testosterone.
What Are the Benefits of TRT?
TRT often helps men to get off of a downward health spiral that has left them feeling tired, irritable, and out of shape. Many men find that they are able to revert to the way they felt prior to a testosterone dip after beginning therapy.
Some common benefits that are noticed with TRT include:
- Increased energy levels
- Better mood
- Restored sexual function
- Higher sex drive
- Weight loss
- Muscle gain
- Increased physical endurance
The way you “feel” on TRT won’t be the only measure of success. At Eliv8 MD, we use a careful plan for monitoring your testosterone levels using serum tests at specific intervals to ensure that your therapy is providing the intended results. In addition, we’ll check in with you to evaluate the effect testosterone therapy is having on your full health picture.
How Is TRT Given to Patients?
TRT can actually be administered using several different methods. Injections are common because they allow for direct, fast-working administration of testosterone. Following an injection, testosterone immediately enters the bloodstream. However, some slow-release options are also available. These can include mouth patches, gels, skin patches, pills, and pellets. You’ll have an opportunity to go over all of the TRT options during your consultation to discover which one provides the biggest benefit.
How Long Does It Take for TRT to Work?
Patients should understand that they won’t see results from TRT immediately. In most cases, it takes around three weeks to begin noticing changes in energy levels, mood, and sexual function. Results often peak at the six-week mark. If you don’t notice the positive changes that were expected, your dosage can be altered for future appointments.
Does TRT Have Any Side Effects?
Like all medications, TRT comes with a list of potential side effects. Many men taking TRT never experience any side effects.
However, it’s possible for TRT to cause:
- Chest pain
- Low sperm count
- Lowered LDL cholesterol
- Blood clots.
- Deep vein thrombosis
- Swelling.
- Stroke
- Enlarged prostate
- Sleep apnea
- Acne
- Oily skin
- Water retention
- Breast enlargement
- High blood pressure
Men who have certain risk factors or underlying health issues should avoid TRT. You won’t be considered an ideal candidate for TRT if you have a risk history for prostate cancer, prostate enlargement, heart disease, or heart attack. If TRT isn’t an option based on your health situation, the doctors at ThriveMD can help you to develop an alternative wellness plan for managing low testosterone symptoms.
Book a TRT Consultation in Louisville, CO
The first step to deciding if TRT is right for you is a consultation with a TRT doctor in Denver. Eliv8 MD can help you take the first step. Our clinic leads the way in regenerative medicine and hormone therapy in North Denver and South Boulder. Get started today by calling (720) 591-9466, emailing info@eliv8md.com, or booking an appointment online.
