For men, testosterone is among the essential hormones in their bodies, which carry out vital functions. This hormone instills energy, strength, sexual prowess, and vitality, among others, in men. Simply put, ‘testosterone’ often defines a man’s masculinity.
However, low testosterone levels are a common problem, and it should not lower your confidence. This is a medical condition that can happen to anyone as they age. Nevertheless, several symptoms may accompany this condition, such as fatigue, anxiety, depression, decreased sex drive, etc. All of it can result from low testosterone levels that might take a heavy toll on you mentally and physically.
Doctors may recommend testosterone replacement therapy if they notice an extremely low testosterone level in the body. This therapy aids in replacing the hormone lost due to an injury, birth condition, specific diseases, or orchiectomy. However, as with any medical process, you should be aware of the benefits and drawbacks.
Pros of Testosterone Replacement Therapy
The top benefits of boosting testosterone through this therapy include the following.
- Higher Energy Levels
Testosterone is highly responsible for boosting your energy levels, and it is because this hormone plays a significant role in producing the red blood cells in the body. These cells are responsible for producing oxygen and converting carbohydrates and fat into energy. Therefore, males who are experiencing low testosterone levels may experience extreme physical and mental fatigue. You may even feel tired occasionally due to a lack of sleep and a stressful day.
But you must note that if you’re experiencing chronic fatigue, it could be due to a low testosterone level. It would be best if you research more on online testosterone therapy, including the leading labs and their process, to develop an idea before undertaking this procedure.
- Enhanced Sexual Desire and Performance
If your sex drive has been less intense than normal, testosterone replacement treatment may help you restore your ideal libido level. A man’s sexual health might suffer from low testosterone levels, which can cause erectile dysfunction and decreased desire. Research shows that testosterone levels and libido are closely connected.
The study found a more significant likelihood of low testosterone in the patients who reported having less sexual desire. Conversely, the men’s enhanced sexual desire and function allowed them to restart their sex lives after restoring the expected levels of this hormone.
- Increased Muscular Strength
Looking to shape your physique and add muscle? If you have low T, that can be a challenge. Testosterone is a key component of muscle protein synthesis, as it repairs muscle damage brought on by weightlifting and other workouts that enhance muscle building. One study examining the impact of testosterone on strength described that all nine test participants who received testosterone dosages saw an average 20% increase in muscle mass. After restoring your testosterone levels, you may anticipate gaining lean muscle mass paired with the proper diet and exercise.
- Better libido
The testosterone level increase as a response to sexual excitement and activity. Men with higher testosterone levels primarily engage in increased sexual activity. Hence, for erectile and libido function, older men may require a boost of higher testosterone. However, one must note that certain drugs and diseases can also cause erectile dysfunction apart from low testosterone levels.
Studies show that testosterone treatment can enhance both the quality and duration of your sex. However, additionally, it demonstrates a limited amount of testosterone, above which an enhanced reaction is impossible. Therefore, increasing testosterone may not increase desire in males without hypogonadism.
Cons of Testosterone Replacement Therapy
Every medical procedure has possible side effects, and for some people, they can exceed the advantages. The same holds for testosterone treatment. Its adverse effects are often not severe for males, though some report acne, ankle swelling, or difficulty breathing when asleep; however, these are uncommon.
- Fluid Retention
Water retention can be a side effect of boosting testosterone through this therapy. So even though this issue won’t have any significant effects, it might nonetheless be upsetting, especially for guys who use these supplements to seem more manly.
- Higher Red Blood Cell Count
Your body may create too many red blood cells due to testosterone. Hence, your chance of developing heart disease increases, which can cause a heart attack or stroke.
- Enlarged Prostate
While using these boosters, the prostate may expand, making urinating uncomfortable and challenging. In addition, the hormone will speed up prostate cancer growth if you already have it. Because of this, a prostate examination is essential before beginning the boosters.
- Acne
Like other androgens, testosterone can enhance the stimulation of the oil glands, which results in acne. They may also block facial pores, which is a recognized acne cause. You’ll notice that most acne sufferers are teenagers if you look at them, and this is because they produce more testosterone than others their age do.
Conclusion
TRT has a lot of advantages that might improve the quality of life of those with low testosterone levels. Weighing the advantages and disadvantages of TRT’s safe and efficient usage before treatment is crucial. Remember that TRT can cause side effects like polycythemia, BPH (prostate gland enlargement), and sleep apnea. That is why before deciding on TRT, have a thorough discussion with your healthcare physician. It may be an effective treatment for some persons with low testosterone levels when administered by a qualified healthcare professional and followed by careful observation, such as a complete medical history, routine office visits, and periodic lab testing.