Low testosterone and erectile dysfunction are common among men after the age of 30. This is obviously part of the aging process and cannot lead to alarming symptoms at once. Low testosterone and impotence can also exist as a result of trauma or injury to the testicles. Other possible causes of low testosterone include chemotherapy, stress, alcoholism, AIDS, cirrhosis and hemochromatosis.
Low testosterone levels in men can seldom lead to serious health threats such as osteoporosis, muscle atrophy, alopecia and erectile dysfunction. A drastic fall in testosterone levels can deeply affect men’s ability to achieve erections.
Low testosterone has a psychological impact that later causes depression and moods swings. To reverse erection problems as a result of low testosterone, men should seek medical advice from a specialist. Health experts are promoting testosterone replacement therapy for men with low testosterone levels.
Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) is a hormone treatment, often recommended to counter the effects of low testosterone and erectile dysfunction. The patient on the other hand should undergo several blood tests to determine whether testosterone levels are low. Specialist will then provide counseling on the proper course of therapy.
Here are different ways to administer testosterone replacement therapy:
- Intramuscular injections every two or three weeks
- A testosterone patch placed either in the body or scrotum
- A mucoadhesive material applied above the teeth twice a day
- Testosterone gel
- Oral tablets Contraindications of Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT)Men who have prostate cancer or other prostate problems should avoid hormonal replacements. TRT can cause prostate enlargement and is not desirable for men with prostate issues. Breast cancer patients should also avoid testosterone replacement therapy. As TRT can lead to serious effect in men’s health.Adverse Effects of TRT
TRT through intramuscular injections can seriously cause hormonal fluctuation. On the other hand, body patches can result to skin irritation. Also, testosterone gels require careful application since these gels are fast absorbing, it can cause unwanted results when accidentally applied.
Testosterone replacement therapy will achieve successful results in about three to six weeks. Many times, men display a happier disposition after the treatment. Most of them often report an increase libido and improvement in sexual drive. Also, they are able to achieve and maintain erections.
Hormonal treatments improve mental cognition, concentration and visual-spatial abilities. It also increases bone density, muscle mass and prevents erection problems.