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The Nitty Gritty on Testosterone Replacement Therapy
The Nitty-Gritty on Testosterone Replacement Therapy There is a normal decrease in
testosterone levels that is expected in the aging male. Then there is the controversial topic of "male menopause"
which is thought to be caused by lower than normal testosterone level. Normally there is a gradual (1%) per year
decrease in the testosterone level beginning at around age 35 and ending around age 80 when the testosterone level
is again at what it is at pre-puberty. This decrease in testosterone level has an effect that can manifest itself
in the following ways: noticeable muscle loss, decreased endurance, lack of libido, depression, inability to
concentrate, possible cognitive issues. When males try to deal with these symptoms of decreased testosterone levels
they become anxious, irritable and even angry or moody. These symptoms can put a strain on relationships at work
and at home. It is understandable that the main way to treat this condition is to replace the testosterone. There
are two types of testosterone used in replacement therapy synthetic (man-made) and natural. Synthetic Testosterone
Replacement Therapy There has been much studied regarding risk factor and side effects for testosterone therapy.
The risk for a man that has a family history of prostate cancer is that taking this therapy may increase his risk
for this cancer. The side effects include: infertility, insomnia and also excessive blood production which if left
unchecked can lead to stroke. The healthcare professional should evaluate the family history carefully when
considering the treatment plan. There are many methods of delivery including pills, injections, inserts and
patches. The delivery systems each have their own pros and cons. The patient should ask questions about side
effects, how the method is given (orally, by needle, through the skin), and how often doses need to be
administered. All of these considerations should be weighted carefully when deciding which one to use. The decision
should be based on effectiveness, dosage amount and frequency, side effects, total cost including office visits,
insurance coverage, and also adverse reactions at site of delivery. Pills Used to regulate testosterone levels the
pill form can have an increased risk of liver damage so healthcare professionals must closely monitor those who
chose this method. Patches This method is popular because of its ease of use. The patch uses a gel that when it is
applied to the skin, the gel dries and then releases testosterone throughout the day at regular intervals. The user
must check the skin area for any irritations and if there are signs of skin irritation the patch should be
discontinued and the healthcare professional notified. Injection This method must be administered by a healthcare
professional and uses needles. This method requires office visits for each dose to be given and the patient should
check with insurance for coverage. Weight gain is one side effect of using injectable hormone replacement therapy.
Implants Pellet implants are inserted into the man's abdomen, buttocks or into the upper arm. Doses are repeated
every 6 months. Natural testosterone (DHEA) can be found in grocery store health aisles, or in health food stores
or open markets where herbal treatments are sold. Ginseng is a herb that is used for male menopause. Information
about DHEA and Ginseng can be found at your local homeopath.
Hot Flashes Menopause
It is important for all involved to understand that whether you call it male menopause, andropause or viropause, the condition characterized by the symptoms described earlier are all can be treated and relief given so that men can again enjoy life. Just as other disease such as thyroid disease and diabetes are treated and lives return to being productive, so those suffering from male menopause can be treated.
The more we know as a society regarding conditions such as this, the more comfortable men will become about seeking medical help so that they can feel better and in turn they can cope better with relationships in home and at work.
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Male Menopause Tips and Facts.
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