What is hormone substitution therapy for men?
hormone substitution therapy for men is more common than many people are aware of. Testosterone is a primary male hormone and is usually produced by testicles. As men age, testosterone production can decrease, making hormone substitution therapy for men with viable treatment. Some health conditions or the use of some drugs may also lead to a reduction in testosterone production. Hormone substitution therapy for men is available in several forms, including topical gels, injections or external patches.
Testosterone has many important functions for the male body, including reproductive and sexual functioning, bone density and the overall sense of well -being. Testosterone also strongly affects the production of red blood cells and maintaining muscle volume. When testosterone levels decrease, a number of health problems may develop, including reduced libido, depression and memory or concentration problems. Hormone substitution therapy can often reduce or eliminate these symptoms.
If it is not treated, some noticeable changes in the body may occur due to reduced testosterone levels. This may include increasing body fat and reducing muscle mass. The body hair may begin to reduce or may develop a condition known as osteoporosis that causes the bones to become fragile. Some men may become anemic or begin to have difficulty maintaining healthy cholesterol levels. Simple blood tests in the doctor's office can accurately determine whether hormone substitution therapy would be beneficial.
Intramuscular injections are a popular form of testosterone replacement. These injections are usually administered in the doctor's office every two or three weeks. One of the advantages of injections is that many men begin to feel positive effects shortly after they are given. Unfortunately, testosterone levels do not remain stable and will start decline again as time is closer to another injection.
Testosterone patches or gels are other methods of hormone substitution therapy for men. Some men may not be able to use patches if the skin is significantly irritated. If the gels are used, extreme caution should be used to ensure that hormones are not accidentally transferred to another person. Testosterone pills are not available because the oral supply of this hormone does not have significant advantages, especially with regard to the risks of the liver when testosterone is subjected to orally. Any questions or concerns about hormone substitution therapy should be discussed with a doctor or other doctor.