Testosterone Therapy
The hormone testosterone, also known as the “male hormone” is produced in both men and women and is the primary hormone regulating sexual desire or libido in both sexes. In men, testosterone is produced by the testicles and is responsible for male sexual characteristics. It is also an important element in maintaining muscle, red blood cells at adequate (healthy) levels, bone growth, overall sense of well being, and sexual function/erections. Two of the most common terms used for the dropping of testosterone below adequate levels are Andropause and Low T syndrome.
Testosterone levels drop as part of the aging process between 1% – 3% each year beginning around age 30. Most men begin to experience the symptoms of diminished testosterone in their mid 40s to late 50s. These include loss of sex drive or libido, erectile disfunction, depression, lower self-esteem or reduced confidence levels, difficulty concentrating, loss of muscle mass, and weight gain in the middle (the dreaded spare tire.) Many men also experience difficulty sleeping including insomnia or sleep disturbances and reduced energy levels. Some of these conditions may also be caused by medication, sleep apnea, thyroid problems and other health issues, so a certified and trained hormone replacement doctor will require blood work be performed prior to any Testosterone therapy. A blood test is the only way to diagnose a low testosterone level.
Benefits of Testosterone Therapy
Testosterone affects much more than your sex drive and erectile function. When testosterone levels are optimized, it can effectively improve health issues, such as widening coronary arteries, increasing red blood cell counts and reducing heart health risks for cardiovascular disease. It signals the body to reduce fat deposits and accumulate more lean muscle mass; some men are able to reduce or eliminate the need for high blood pressure and diabetes-related medications as a result. Testosterone also plays a role in improving bone density. It helps improve mood and reduce depression. Some of the most exciting research indicates that higher levels of testosterone reduce your risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease and preserve or improve cognitive ability in older (50+) men. Many of our patients also report much higher levels of overall energy, motivation, competitiveness, and overall sense of well-being. They also experience the obvious benefits of consistent, stronger erections and increased sexual desire.
With any medical therapy, there are always risks that need to be considered. A doctor specifically trained in testosterone therapy, hormone replacement therapy or hormone optimization therapy will be best able to determine if testosterone therapy is right for you. Along with being up to date with the most recent and accurate medical evidence available, a specially trained physician will be able to evaluate your current blood work to make personalized recommendations so that you achieve the results you desire and feel great.
Why Savannah Age Management Medicine?
Dr. Harry Collins, Medical Director of Savannah Age Management Medicine, has worked with hormone replacement therapy for over 30 years. He received his training and certification in Age Management Medicine from the world renowned Cenegenics Medical Institute. As part of that certification, Dr. Collins uses a highly intensive Elite Health Evaluation and an Annual Elite Health Evaluation to guide his patients on a customized program using nutrition, exercise, nutraceuticals, lifestyle enhancements and hormone optimization when clinically indicated. For more information or to see if testosterone therapy is right for you, please Contact Us.
