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It’s no secret that the internet is filled to the brim with misinformation. This is especially true for topics that are discreet by nature—like one’s sexual health.
One integral part of a male’s sexual health is his testosterone count. A lot of people attribute testosterone to chiseled muscles and a deep voice—but its contributions to the male body extend far beyond those physical features.
When your testosterone count is too low, it can disrupt several vital processes in the body. It may be asymptomatic at first, but if left untreated, it can go on to worsen your health and well-being.
Fortunately, there’s one clinical way that can reverse testosterone deficiency: taking testosterone replacement therapy (TRT). This therapy is specifically targeted to restore testosterone levels, which can improve adverse symptoms in men.
Despite its excellent track record in improving the quality of life in male individuals, there are many myths surrounding TRT. These myths can prevent people from getting the help they need to improve their sex lives.
So, what’s true and what’s not about testosterone replacement therapy? This article will delve into the myths and realities of TRT in more detail.
Let’s hop right in.
What are the Functions of Testosterone?
It’s important to know how testosterone interacts with your body at large.
For starters, testosterone is a male sex hormone that’s responsible for primary and secondary male characteristics.
In particular, testosterone is responsible for:
- Regulating sex drive
- Helping maintain body mass
- Promoting healthy fat distribution
- Improving bone mass
- Producing sperm and red blood cells
- Regulating mood and cognitive health
Normal testosterone levels range anywhere between 300 ng/dL to 750 ng/dL.
If your blood testosterone count falls below that range, you are likely dealing with hypogonadism, also known as a testosterone deficiency.
This hormonal deficiency can give rise to a slew of unwanted symptoms, like sex drive issues, increased body fat, ED, and reversals of the positives associated with healthy T levels. It may even lead to an increased risk of future problems, like benign prostatic hyperplasia.
So, this begs the question: what are the myths surrounding the most prominent treatment for testosterone deficiency, TRT?
5 Myths About Testosterone Replacement Therapy
Let’s look into these TRT myths in more detail.
Myth #1: TRT Causes Heart Disease
Some earlier research has reported that TRT increases the chance of heart attack and strokes. However, more recent research has debunked this claim.
One study performed on an older male demographic (Vietnamese-American war veterans) found that those who had TRT had a 36% reduced risk of developing heart stroke compared to men who were not on treatment.
That said, the exact mechanisms behind how TRT and the heart interact are still something that’s not clearly understood. As such, it’s important to speak with a qualified professional to evaluate whether you’re at risk or not before undergoing testosterone treatment.
Myth #2: TRT is Like Injecting Steroids
A lot of people often mistake testosterone for steroids, especially since these two visually help increase muscle mass.
However, these two substances are fundamentally different. TRT is done under strict medical supervision, with measured doses of testosterone medications being administered.
Conversely, anabolic steroids are often performed under the table. They’re not done through medical channels and are used to enhance athletic performance.
Furthermore, steroids are linked with significant health issues, such as testicular damage and kidney damage. Conversely, TRT health risks are largely safe; and if side effects do occur, they’re often temporary and not as severe.
Myth #3: I Don’t Have Symptoms, So I Don’t Have Hypogonadism
This assumption is a common one, but it’s frequently false.
A lot of people who are on the verge of low testosterone (or are in their early stages of hypogonadism) won’t have any blaring physical signs of low testosterone, like sexual function problems or prostate cancer.
However, if left unchecked, this condition can appear at a moment’s notice, wreaking havoc on your health along the way or at least paving the way for you to develop future health problems like heart disease.
With that said, it’s crucial to get diagnosed with hypogonadism through blood tests annually. This is especially true if you’re over 50, as that’s when people start to face decreasing T levels.
This can help you understand your health situation and lead you to the right treatments, whether it’s testosterone supplementation or not.
Myth #4: TRT is Only For Men With Erectile Dysfunction
Testosterone replacement therapy isn’t only for men with erectile dysfunction (ED).
Hypogonadism can present itself differently from person to person, and in some cases, it can even overlap with other preexisting health conditions.
It’s important to recognize this. Here are some of the other symptoms of low testosterone that you should be aware of:
- Fatigue
- Reduced muscle strength
- Insomnia
- Reduced body hair
- Decreased bone density
- Weakened muscles
If you’re facing any of the following effects of testosterone deficiency, be sure to contact a doctor for further medical assessments.
Myth #6: My Lifestyle Doesn’t Affect Testosterone Levels
A lot of people think that decreasing T levels is a normal part of aging. In fact, a recent study has reported that men over 30 face decreasing testosterone levels of up to 2% annually.
While the trend is made evident through these studies, there are ways you can maintain your T levels and ensure that you have healthy levels of this androgen.
Here are some lifestyle factors you can implement in your daily life to improve T levels:
- Sleep 7 hours a night (at least)
- Eat a balanced diet rich in protein
- Reduce sources of stress
- Exercise regularly, but don’t overexert yourself
By following these practices, you can make it easier for your future self to enjoy a healthy and energetic life with ample amounts of testosterone circulating in your body.
Access TRT and More Treatment Options at Atlanta, Georgia’s Top Men’s Health Clinic
Testosterone therapy is an effective solution for men to restore low testosterone levels. It’s accessible, medically-backed, and non-invasive.
It’s also safe for men of all ages, granted that they’re cleared by a doctor and free from health risks like cancer and heart disease.
Need medical guidance to help restore your testosterone levels? The medical team at Priority Men’s Medical Center in Atlanta are more than capable of helping you restore your testosterone levels for long term success.
Besides robust testosterone treatment, we also offer a catalog of other treatment plans such as ED therapy, HGH treatment, PE treatment, adrenal fatigue treatment, weight loss treatment and customized healthy living programs.
Don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment with us today, your initial consultation and first treatment are completely free.
