Reviewed by: Pan Jiangang (Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University)
What questions should I consult with my doctor about testosterone replacement therapy?
Over the past 10 years or so, the number of men aged 40 and older who have received testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) has tripled, and with it comes the debate about the safety of TRT, especially for men with heart disease.
Studies have shown that TRT carries serious and even fatal risks, including heart attacks and other serious problems.
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Both studies have been criticized, with critics claiming that the data do not support the study's conclusions.
In addition, another large study showed that TRT is not harmful to the heart and can even protect the heart, with a new study of 25,000 men funded by the National Institutes of Health finding that testosterone does not increase the risk of heart attack.
First, the doctor's suggestion
Are the above conclusions confusing?
One thing is certain: as they age, men's testosterone reserves begin to decline, leading to decreased libido, decreased vitality, loss of self-confidence, and lack of motivation over time.
Can TRT safely rejuvenate men? Bassin, an endocrinologist and male health specialist at Brigham and Women's Hospital in Boston, USA, said, "There is a lack of strong evidence for the role of TRT in older men, and TRT has not been approved for naturally occurring testosterone levels due to age-increasing." ”
Second, how should older men deal with this problem?
1. Have a real conversation with the doctor
Test testosterone levels in the blood and review symptoms to determine if you have decreased testosterone levels, and if both doctors and patients think TRT is worth a try, patients undergo regular blood tests and follow-up to see how they react.
2. Take good care of yourself
Dr. Bassin says exercise and a healthy diet can help boost testosterone levels, such as in men who are mildly or moderately obese to increase their testosterone levels by losing weight.
3. 5 questions to consult a doctor
Dr. Bradley D. Anawalt, a professor of medicine and an endocrinologist who chairs the Hormone Health Network at the University of Washington in Seattle, said that patients should consult with their doctors on 5 key questions:
What are the symptoms of low testosterone levels?
What other reasons can explain my symptoms?
What are the odds of low testosterone levels?
Are there any other common causes?
Do I need to test my blood testosterone level?
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