Testosterone Replacement for Men
Testosterone is a hormone produced by the testicles. It is responsible for increasing muscle strength and mass, facial hair, body hair, bone density, red blood cell production, development of the penis, sex drive and sperm production. Testosterone replacement therapy is a sensible solution for men with low testosterone levels. For many men, this therapy can help tremendously, and in some cases it can be a life saver.
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Hypogonadism
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Hypogonadism is a medical condition in which the testicles do not produce enough testosterone. Some men are born with this condition, while others acquire it as a result of an infection or after suffering an injury. Mumps and pituitary gland tumors can also cause this condition. Cases of hypogonadism that occur during puberty can cause development of breast tissue and might prevent a boy's voice from deepening. In an adult male, it can cause erectile dysfunction and infertility.
Symptoms of Low Testosterone
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Low levels of testosterone can cause various problems for men, including: loss of bone density, decreased sexual function, loss of muscle mass, reduced muscle strength, increase in fat mass, mood swings, depression and memory loss. Low testosterone can also cause osteoporosis in men. This is often a very serious condition, because men don't get tested for osteoporosis as often as women. Osteoporosis can result in a hip fracture, which in some cases can be deadly. Age plays a factor in low testosterone levels as well. Hypogonadism caused by increasing age is also known as andropause.
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Methods
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Gels and patches are the preferred methods for testosterone replacement therapy. Androderm is a testosterone patch that can be placed on any part of the body that doesn't have hair. The downside to this patch is that it causes a skin rash in some men. Testosterone gel is the most popular method for testosterone replacement therapy. Androgel and Testim are both FDA approved testosterone gels. They are applied to the skin daily, and are much less irritating than the patch. Other methods of testosterone replacement therapy include injections and chewing gum. Testosterone can be taken orally, but it is not recommended because it may cause liver toxicity.
Benefits
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Testosterone replacement therapy can carry many health benefits. Some of these benefits include: more energy, sense of well-being, improved libido, increase in bone and muscle mass, improved body composition, rise in hemoglobin levels and improved mood. It is important to talk with your physician to determine if the benefits of testosterone replacement therapy outweigh the risks.
Risks
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Just as testosterone replacement therapy has its benefits, it also has plenty of risks. Men who undergo this therapy may experience: higher risk of prostate cancer, problems urinating, liver damage from oral medications, breast tenderness and swelling, sleep apnea, shrinking testicles, skin rashes, fertility problems, fluid retention, acne, increased body hair and oily skin.
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References
- Photo Credit Sanja Gjenero: sxc.hu
