Information On Testosterone Replacement Therapy St Petersburg FL

By Ruth Stewart


A good number of men with low levels of testosterone report that they have improved levels of energy and sex drive after they have undergone testosterone treatment. This brings the question of whether it is advisable to replace testosterone in the event that it is low. It is important to understand what is involved and be versed with the process, the benefits and disadvantages. When considering testosterone replacement therapy St Petersburg FL residents can benefit from some facts.

Not all low levels of testosterone will call for replacement treatment. The treatment comes wit a number of long side effects but without clear long term benefit. The best people for the procedure are those whose low hormone level is confirmed and their blood level is also low. A number of symptoms will indicate that hormone levels have reduced considerably. For all men, it should be noted that testosterone levels naturally decline with time.

Some symptoms of low hormone levels are erectile dysfunction, low sex drive and depression in those affected. In cases there are these symptoms and tests show that the levels are considerably low, a doctor might suggest that the person undergoes treatment. If the person experiences low levels but without any symptoms, replacement is not recommended. The same applies to those with low levels caused by aging.

There are various forms in which the therapy is available. One can opt for the skin patch which is worn on the arms or upper parts of the body. It gets applied once every day. There is the option of using gels which come in packets. The hormone will be directly absorbed into the body when the gel is applied to the skin. There is also the mouth patch that comes as a tablet which sticks to upper gums above incisors.

A pill can also be used for testosterone replacement therapy. It is not however a popular technique because of the negative effects it has on the liver. Other techniques such as skin patches or injections are suitable because they bypass the liver, getting the hormone directly into blood.

It is not easy for one to predict what they can expect after treatment because effects tend to be different. Most people experience a rise in level of energy, improved quality of erections and enhanced sex drive. The hormone is known to improve bone density, muscle mass and sensitivity of insulin. The effects will vary depending on a person. Some people report that their mood improves after treatment. Effects are generally individualized.

There are possible side effects of the treatment. They include among others rashes, itching and irritation at areas where the hormone was applied. Evidence also shows that it comes with increased risk of heart attach and stroke. Some conditions are also likely to be worsened by the treatment, for instance prostate cancer, heart failure and sleep apnea.

Long terms benefits of the therapy remain unknown. As with many other medical procedures, the decision of whether to go for the procedure will depend on a person. A doctor will help with decision making.




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