More research is needed to fully understand the long-term effects. BPH is the enlargement of the prostate gland, which can cause urinary problems. However, significantly elevated PSA levels or rapidly rising PSA levels would warrant further investigation and may preclude TRT until the underlying cause is determined. PSA stands for Prostate-Specific Antigen, a protein produced by the prostate gland. This typically includes a PSA blood test and a digital rectal exam (DRE). The benefits of TRT are often substantial for men with clinically diagnosed hypogonadism. They should be monitored for increased symptoms, such as snoring while sleeping or fatigue. While testosterone exerts a positive effect in men with baseline anemia, it can lead to polycythemia in over 20% of men treated on TRT. Testosterone leads to an increase in hemoglobin by as much as 5-7%1,25 through its effect on the production of erythropoietin, which can dramatically improve symptoms of anemia in men.40,41 Future prospective studies with longer follow-up will determine if such association between TRT and male breast cancer truly exists. Despite a significant increase in PSA in men receiving TRT, there were twice as many cancer recurrences in the control group after 36 months of follow-up. In the most recent study by Pastuszak et al., the authors retrospectively reviewed a cohort of 103 men who underwent prior radical prostatectomy and were treated with TRT. A qualified TOT specialist is crucial for safe and effective treatment. Testosterone levels in men have declined at an alarming rate over the past few decades. TOT aims to improve overall well-being, enhance physical and cognitive function, and mitigate the negative effects of aging. Ultimately, TRT can be a powerful tool to restore and maintain men’s health as they age and promote a higher quality of life for years to come. Testosterone Replacement Therapy can be transformative for men with low testosterone. It is vitally important to assess both total and free testosterone. Because the symptoms of Low T can actually look a lot like the symptoms of other diseases and disorders, we need more information. If you’re experiencing symptoms, something is wrong, and we need to figure out what that something is. It stands to reason that you’re interested in TRT because you haven’t been feeling well. If you are not completely comfortable with the provider’s knowledge on the subject of TRT, you are in the wrong place. Typically, we test one month after therapy is initiated and/or a dosing change is made. The right nutrients support hormone production, energy levels, and overall health to help TRT work more effectively. Your doctor will monitor your fertility markers and testosterone levels to catch and address any testicular atrophy issues early. Your doctor will monitor these markers during regular blood tests to ensure your treatment doesn’t compromise your cardiovascular health. High cholesterol levels, combined with increased red blood cell production from TRT, can raise the risk of cardiovascular issues. Your doctor will use regular blood work to monitor and balance these hormone levels. While TRT can offer significant benefits, it’s crucial to understand the potential risks and to discuss them thoroughly with your doctor, particularly concerning prostate health. Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) is a medical treatment designed to restore testosterone levels in men experiencing hypogonadism, a condition characterized by abnormally low testosterone. When we talk about those benefits in detail, patients are surprised that healthy testosterone levels can improve their lives unexpected ways. During the course of a single pellet treatment, patients experience a short period of unnaturally high testosterone levels that’s followed by a 3-4 month plummet towards the threshold of experiencing low testosterone symptoms again. TRT can significantly improve quality of life, but it’s important to work with a healthcare provider to monitor hormone levels and minimize side effects.
