The number of men taking testosterone has tripled since 2001 with men in their 40s showing the biggest increase. What’s causing this sudden increase of testosterone usage? Can hormone replacement therapy cause long term problems? Let’s take a look at the facts behind testosterone therapy for men.
The sudden increase in the number of men using testosterone is concerning to some doctors. The Endocrine Society, the group responsible for setting guidelines for medical testosterone use, recommends that testosterone therapy be given only to men with clearly low testosterone levels. Determining your levels requires a blood test, something that 25% of those on testosterone therapy never received.
Some doctors worry about the potential side effects associated with long term testosterone use, especially in those where there is no actual clinical need for testosterone therapy. Other doctors applaud the increase. Some studies suggest that almost one third of men between 40 and 79 have low testosterone levels. Treatment can help stop or reverse some of the symptoms associated with low testosterone (erectile dysfunction, hair loss, depression, hot flashes, etc.). Men with lower testosterone levels also tend to have shorter lives and an increased occurrence of diabetes, heart disease and osteoporosis.
Testosterone use has been shown to be safe and can be highly effective at reversing the signs and symptoms of aging. In fact it can even prevent diseases caused by low testosterone levels. If properly managed and needed, testosterone therapy can be an effective choice for men; the increase in testosterone usage may indicate that more men are taking charge of their health and actively fighting the signs of aging.
With all the conflicting options what’s one to do? Choose a doctor that you can trust and that will take the time to do the right testing and find the right treatment. Dr. Berger is an expert in anti-aging medicine and uses bioidentical hormones to balance the body’s natural levels of testosterone, reducing side effects and promoting ideal health. Why treat the conditions associated with aging when you can treat the underlying cause?
Testosterone is the most important male hormone; it’s what makes a man a man. Testosterone contributes to optimal energy levels, helps build muscle mass and is essential for libido. Low levels of testosterone can cause symptoms like:
If you’re experiencing the symptoms of low testosterone or simply want to age more gracefully, come in and see Dr. Berger. He will work with you to determine the underlying cause of your problems, whether it be low testosterone or something else. He will then devise a treatment plan that will meet your needs and lifestyle. Low testosterone can cause serious problems if it isn’t treated. Not only can it help you feel better, but it can help you avoid some long term health problems.
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