Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT) is a form of hormone therapy used to raise low testosterone levels in the body.
While this type of treatment can be beneficial for those with a naturally occurring deficiency, it comes with certain risks and potential TRT side effects that should be considered before starting TRT.
In this article, we’ll look at some of these common TRT side effects along with ways to manage them and protect yourself during treatment.
Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT) is a form of hormone therapy used to raise low testosterone levels in the body. It can be prescribed by a doctor as either an injection, patch, cream, or gel and typically works within days once applied.
TRT is known for its many benefits; however, it can also carry certain side effects that patients should be aware of before starting this type of treatment. In this article, we’ll look at some of these common trt side side effects along with ways to manage them and protect yourself during treatment.
The most common side effect associated with TRT is a temporary increase in red blood cell count. This can lead to high blood pressure and headaches, as well as an increased risk of stroke or heart attack.
Other potential trt side effects include changes in mood, libido, sleep patterns, and weight gain. Patients need to be aware of these symptoms and talk to their doctor if they experience any of them during treatment.
One of the potential side effects of testosterone replacement therapy is an increased risk of heart attack. A study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association found that men over the age of 65 who were taking testosterone had a two-fold increase in the risk of heart attack compared to those who were not taking testosterone.
The study also found that men under the age of 65 who had a history of heart disease had a three-fold increase in the risk of heart attack when taking testosterone.
Another potential side effect of testosterone replacement therapy is an increased risk of stroke. A study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that men over the age of 65 who were taking testosterone had a two-fold increase in the risk of stroke compared to those who were not taking testosterone.
The study also found that men under the age of 65 who had a history of heart disease had a three-fold increase in the risk of stroke when taking testosterone.
Testosterone replacement therapy can also lead to an increased risk of blood clots. A study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association found that men over the age of 50 who were taking testosterone had a two-fold increase in the risk of blood clots compared to those who were not taking testosterone.
The study also found that men under the age of 50 who had a history of blood clotting disorders had a four-fold increase in the risk of blood clots when taking testosterone.
Another potential side effect of testosterone replacement therapy is an enlarged prostate, which can lead to urinary problems such as difficulty urinating or a need to urinate more frequently.
A study published in The New England Journal Of Medicine found that men over the age 60 who were taking testosterone had an increased risk of developing an enlarged prostate compared to those who were not taking testosterone. The study did not find an increased risk for men under the age 60, but did find an increased risk for those over the age 80.
Testosterone replacement therapy can also lead to testicular atrophy, which is a condition where the testicles shrink and produce less sperm.
A study published in The New England Journal Of Medicine found that men who were taking testosterone had an increased risk of developing testicular atrophy compared to those who were not taking testosterone. The study did not find an increased risk for men under the age 60, but did find an increased risk for those over the age of 80.
While the short-term side effects associated with TRT are usually manageable, there is also the possibility of long-term risks and complications from this type of therapy.
For example, some studies have suggested that long-term use may increase the risk of prostate cancer or liver damage.
Additionally, there is the potential for testosterone levels to build up in the body when taken at high doses over a long period of time, leading to an increased risk of cardiovascular issues.
Patients should talk to their doctor about any symptoms they experience while taking TRT and discuss ways to manage them.
For example, if a patient experiences headaches or high blood pressure due to a temporary increase in red blood cell count, lower dosages may be required until the patient adjusts to the treatment.
Other TRT side effects may require lifestyle changes such as increasing physical activity or adjusting one’s diet.
TRT can be a helpful treatment option for those suffering from a naturally occurring testosterone deficiency. However, it’s important to weigh the potential benefits against the risks before beginning this type of therapy.
It’s also essential to talk to your doctor and be aware of possible TRT side effects so you can best manage them during treatment.
Testosterone Replacement Therapy can provide many benefits to those with a naturally occurring deficiency; however, it is important to understand the possible TRT side effects and risks associated with TRT before starting this type of treatment.
This article has outlined some of these common TRT side effects as well as ways to manage and protect yourself while taking TRT. Give us a call if you have any questions.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice.
Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT) is not a treatment for all health conditions, and it is not recommended for those who do not have a naturally occurring testosterone deficiency.
TRT may also increase the risk of some long-term complications, such as prostate cancer or liver damage, as well as cardiovascular issues caused by high dosages taken over an extended period of time. Before beginning any type of treatment, it is important to discuss potential risks with your healthcare provider so that you can make an informed decision.
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