https://www.hghprescription.com/testosterone-therapy/the-great-testosterone-debate/
Keep reading and discover the facts!
When discussing testosterone replacement therapy (TRT), there is one thing sure: there are substantial differences of opinion among medical professionals about TRT. This difference leads to the great testosterone debate.
Some physicians are concerned that testosterone replacement therapy comes with potential adverse side effects and should only be prescribed for severe cases of hypogonadism (deficient testosterone levels).
Other doctors disagree. According to these medical professionals, when appropriately used, testosterone replacement therapy delivers a broad range of health benefits for aging men with few if any side effects.
So who is correct? Should testosterone therapy be reserved for a small number of boys and men suffering from severely low testosterone levels (“Low-T”)? Or should physicians consider the many health problems that burden senior men to be a direct result of Low-T and thereby be prescribed TRT?
To answer those questions, here is a look at both sides of the great testosterone debate.
The Potential Risks of Testosterone Replacement Therapy
There is no question that TRT offers the promise of many health benefits: a muscular physique, exploding energy, a youthful libido, and a much-improved outlook on life.
As one physician stated: “They’ve got this notion that it's going to make them into this bodybuilder or Casanova.” But many medical professions dispute this and insist that TRT may hurt more than help.
Here is a list of potential side effects of TRT:
Infertility. The rationale for the link between TRT and infertility is that when undergoing testosterone therapy, your brain stops signaling your body to make testosterone. If the treatment is continued for extended periods, the testicles could shrink. Obviously, if having children is in your plans, testosterone therapy may not be for you.
Prostate cancer. This cancer association with testosterone has long been a warning against aging men receiving TRT. However, opinions have shifted, and the link between testosterone and prostate cancer has not been confirmed. But many doctors say the jury is still out on this issue and that TRT is not recommended for men with a pre-existing prostate problem.
Increased aggression and moodiness. Low-T and the physical deterioration that it brings often leads to depression. Testosterone therapy can boost a man’s mood. But this could result in “too much of a good thing” and lead to excessive aggression similar to ‘roid rage’ which is another phrase for a quick temper.
Heart attack. This grim outcome of TRT is touted by law firms seeking men to represent in legal action against the sizeable pharmaceutical drug companies that manufacture and distribute testosterone. So far, in-depth research has not been able to cement the link between testosterone and cardiovascular disease. However, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) insists that a disclaimer about this risk must accompany prescription testosterone. Therefore, the link between testosterone therapy and cardiovascular disease remains in dispute.
The risk of accidental transfer of testosterone gel. While preventable, there is the possibility of testosterone gel coming into contact with women and children -- with potentially severe adverse results.
Swelling of the ankles and feet. Testosterone may cause your body to retain excess fluid, which can cause swelling in the ankles and feet. This is usually not a severe problem. But if the swelling persists your doctor must be notified.
Acne and other skin changes. Like an uninvited guest crashing the party, the old teenage problem of acne may make an unwanted re-appearance in men undergoing testosterone treatment. This re-appearance is a result of testosterone boosting oil production under the skin. This may be a good thing since it can result in a healthy skin glow. But excessive oil can cause acne breakouts.
Breast swelling, sleep apnea, and increased risk of blood clots and stroke. While rare, these possible side effects must be taken into consideration before beginning a TRT protocol.
Testosterone is addictive. This side effect is purely psychological, but it is worth mentioning. Testosterone is a potent hormone and can affect brain chemistry. At first, these brain boosts can be beneficial and mood-boosting. But for some men depression, insomnia, and irritability can happen when the therapy is stopped or reduced. This possible side effect should not be ignored.
It’s a fact that virtually any prescription comes with a degree of risk. Before prescribing a drug treatment, physicians must weigh the risk/reward ratio. And that’s what we will do now.
https://www.hghprescription.com/testosterone-therapy/the-great-testosterone-debate
