Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) is an emerging treatment in the field of men’s health. Find out why men are making the switch.
RELATED: HRT Hormone Replacement Therapy For Women: Frequently Asked Questions
In this article:
- What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Low Testosterone?
- How Can You Treat Low Testosterone?
- What Should You Consider When Seeking Treatment?
Everything You Need to Know About TRT
What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Low Testosterone?
Testosterone is the primary male sex hormone. It plays an important role in men’s health.
Male hypogonadism is a condition wherein a man’s body doesn’t make enough testosterone. When men don’t have enough testosterone, they may experience the following symptoms:
- Erectile dysfunction
- A decrease in sex drive or libido
- Loss of muscle mass
- Loss of bone mass
- Decrease in testicle size
- Loss of body and facial hair
- Sleep problems
- Lower energy levels
- Fatigue
- Weight gain
- Enlargement of breasts
- Mood swings
- Depression
- Concentration problems
- Hot flashes
These symptoms may have negative effects on your intimate relationships, well-being, and quality of life. So if you experience any of these, it may be time to visit a doctor for a diagnosis and treatment options.
How Can You Treat Low Testosterone?
The most common treatment for low testosterone is hormone replacement therapy (HRT), specifically testosterone replacement therapy (TRT).
TRT is a common treatment for male hypogonadism. This treatment involves giving men more testosterone through the following ways:
- Injections – Muscle injections allow for slow absorption into the bloodstream.
- Implants – Small pellet implants release steady and low levels of testosterone over a period of several months.
- Gels – Testosterone gel is usually applied once a day on the arms or shoulders.
- Skin patches – Using a skin patch is the transdermal approach to delivering more testosterone into the body. It is usually attached to the arm or upper body once a day.
- Mouth patches – Testosterone mouth patches stick to a certain area in your gums. They’re usually applied twice a day.
There are also testosterone pills but long-term use may affect the liver. The methods above bypass the liver and deliver testosterone directly to the bloodstream.
Apart from HRT/TRT, there are natural methods that can increase testosterone levels. For instance, you can try including more testosterone-boosting foods in your diet.
Zinc plays an important role in testosterone production. Aside from zinc, another study shows that vitamin D is also linked to increased testosterone production and improved sexual function.
Tuna, shellfish, and beans are examples of foods that are good sources of vitamin D and zinc.
RELATED: Growth Hormone Deficiency In Adults: Causes, Symptoms, And Treatment
What Should You Consider When Seeking Treatment?
Keep in mind that not all HRT or TRTs are equal. The degree of testosterone deficiency is an important consideration for treatment.
When it comes to HRT or TRT, one size does not fit all. Look for a healthcare provider who can provide the following:
- Customization – a customized approach which matches treatment with blood test results
- Combined treatment options – best if they offer treatments with a combination of various supplements and other human growth hormones (and not just testosterone)
TRT can cost up to $200 every month, but you may not be getting high-quality treatment. There’s more to HRT than just testosterone—it can also include other supplements, peptides, and hormones.
People seek out TRT for different reasons—some want to gain muscle mass, others want more energy, while some men want to improve their sexual function. Regardless of the reason, it’s important to customize your treatment to match your needs and reach your goals.
You don’t need to suffer through the symptoms of low testosterone. There are treatments you can try to help improve your testosterone levels.
If you’re interested in these treatments, talk to an integrative health specialist today. They can help you figure out what you need to achieve your goals.
Watch and share this video about Testosterone Replacement Therapy:
What are your thoughts on testosterone therapy? Let’s talk about health in the comments section below.
Up Next: