Are you ready to jump on the bandwagon and begin a low-T treatment plan?
Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) is a form of male hormone replacement therapy that is used to treat low testosterone levels . It is a medical treatment that involves replacing testosterone in the body to levels that are considered to be within the normal range for a man.
Though it has become a common practice, it isn’t without risks. As with all medications, there are associated side effects of TRT therapy with hormone replacement that can be serious, so it is critical to consider them before jumping into a plan.
If so, let’s explore what you can expect.
Acne or Oily Skin
Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) is commonly prescribed for men who struggle with low testosterone levels. However, the therapy can sometimes cause side effects, such as acne or oily skin.
Acne and oily skin are caused when excessive sebum (oil) is created in the skin by the body’s naturally-occurring hormones. TRT therapies make it difficult for the skin to naturally remove this oil, leading to excess sebum, which can contribute to oily skin and acne outbreaks.
Swelling or Tenderness of Breasts
TRT is a commonly used hormone therapy to treat low testosterone levels and its associated symptoms. TRT is generally recognized as safe and can provide beneficial medical results.
However, like all forms of hormonal therapy, it has the potential to cause a variety of TRT side effects. A common side effect of TRT is swelling or tenderness of the breasts. This side effect usually resolves itself for most people as the therapy continues, but it can linger or worsen for some.
Swelling of the Ankles
Swelling of the ankles often occurs as a side effect of TRT as a result of increased water retention in the body. This is because higher levels of active testosterone in the body may increase sodium retention and inhibit the production of aldosterone, a hormone responsible for controlling sodium and water balance.
A Decrease in the Stream or Frequency of Urination
A testosterone treatment center is an effective form of treatment for individuals who suffer from hypogonadism, a condition that can lead to a decrease in natural testosterone levels.
One such side effect is a decrease in the stream or frequency of urination. This can cause an individual to strain more when attempting to urinate, experience a weak stream or feel like urinating more frequently.
High Blood Cell Counts
It has been found to improve the quality of life in many men with low testosterone levels, including symptoms such as fatigue, fatigue, decreased mental clarity, depression, and low sex drive.
High blood cell counts can lead to other health issues, such as anemia, an increased chance of developing blood clots, and an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. Furthermore, high blood cell counts can also cause fatigue, a weak immune system, and an increased risk of infection.
Sleep Apnea or Worsening of Sleep Apnea
Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT) is becoming increasingly popular among men as a means to improve their overall health while tackling any medical conditions they may be experiencing that are related to low testosterone levels.
However, there is a risk of sleep apnea or worsening of sleep apnea associated with TRT. In some cases, TRT increases luteinizing hormone levels, which leads to higher testosterone levels and can cause sleep apnea or make it worse in some individuals.
Shrinkage of the Testicles
TRT therapy works by replacing testosterone, which can lead to a decrease in the production of sperm in the body and consequently to the organ’s varying size.
This can not only lead to discomfort but can also lead to infertility. Testicular shrinkage can occur because the hormones secreted by the testes are responsible for stimulating spermatogenesis, which is the process of making sperm and is controlled by testosterone.
Hair Loss
TRT Therapy is a popular form of treatment in today’s society for Hair Loss. Although TRT Therapy is a common treatment for this condition, it can lead to certain side effects. Hair loss is one of these common side effects.
Patients who have used this therapy have reported thinning and balding in patches of their hair. This type of side effect may occur due to the high levels of testosterone used in the therapy.
Mood Swings
Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT) is a form of hormone replacement therapy using testosterone that has been increasingly prescribed to men to overcome the symptoms of hypogonadism.
Unfortunately, side effects of TRT therapy, which may include mood swings. Men taking TRT have reported changes in their mood and behavior, such as irritability, rage, emotional instability, or decreased sex drive.
Increased Aggression and Irritability
The increased levels of testosterone present in TRT may affect a person’s level of aggression, causing them to become more agitated and irritable. This may cause those around them to feel uncomfortable, especially if the aggression is out of character.
Changes in Cholesterol Level
TRT has been found to help improve symptoms of low testosterone, such as reduced sexual desire, and can even improve general physical and mental well-being.
Studies have found that TRT can cause an increase in total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, also known as “bad” cholesterol. This can increase the risk of developing heart conditions due to the higher levels of LDL cholesterol.
Explore the Side Effects of TRT Therapy
Overall, TRT therapy can be an effective treatment method for certain health conditions and even aging-related changes. Though the side effects of TRT therapy can vary, it is important to understand the potential risks and discuss your options with your healthcare provider or an endocrinologist.
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