What Are the Risks of Testosterone Therapy?
It is always important to weigh the benefits of any particular medical treatment against the possible side effects or risks that could occur. If the benefits far outweigh the risk factors, then clearly opting for treatment will often be the right decision. This is the scenario that applies when looking at the potential risks of testosterone therapy. Decades of research and results have provided the proof that individuals who are legitimately diagnosed with Low T can benefit from receiving treatment with testosterone therapy without much worry about serious risks such as stroke or blood clots.
That is not to say that there are no testosterone replacement therapy risks at all. What is meant is that the chances of developing any adverse effects are relatively small compared to the incredible benefits that can be realized when treatment is provided by an experienced and knowledgeable practitioner in the field of hormone replacement therapy. Doctors specializing in this area of medicine can offer the best possible treatment because they know how to diagnose and treat hormone deficiencies and imbalances.
The best way of comparing the risks of testosterone replacement therapy with the potential benefits that can be experienced is by looking at the quality of life a person is dealing with at this moment in time. For example:
- If issues such as decreased bone density and muscle loss are increasing the possibility of dangerous fractures down the road, then, yes, treatment with testosterone therapy may be warranted.
- If memory loss and difficulty processing new information are problems, and if focus is decreasing, then using testosterone therapy to improve brain functions and reduce the risk of dementia will certainly outweigh the rare chance that is associated with potential risks of TRT.
Possible Testosterone Therapy Risk Factors
There are two main types of testosterone therapy risks: common and rare. When we talk about the common risks associated with this kind of hormone replacement, we are typically addressing potential side effects that could occur if the dosage of medication being administered is too high. This can be easily reversed by having the doctor lower the dose. That is one of the reasons to work with an experienced doctor in the field of hormone replacement. The chances of this occurring are much greater when the physician is not an HRT specialist.
Here are the common and rare risks of testosterone therapy:
Common Testosterone Therapy Risk Factors
- Adult acne
- Oily skin
- Breast enlargement – gynecomastia (men)
- Skin irritations or rashes (when used topically)
- Edema – fluid retention
- Deepening of the voice (women)
- Pain or irritation at the injection site
- Changes in hair growth
- Mood swings, depression
- Decreased testicular size (men)
- Reduced sperm count (men)
- Enlarged clitoris (women)
These side effects are readily treatable when reported to the doctor who will typically respond by lowering the dosage of testosterone therapy. As a side note, even these potential reactions are exceedingly rare in the first place.
Rare Risks of Testosterone Therapy
- Blood clots
- Stroke
- Heart attack
- Increased PSA
- Worsening of sleep apnea
- Increased red blood cell count
These rare risks of testosterone replacement therapy are just that – extremely rare. Other issues, such as changes in cholesterol and triglyceride levels that could be a danger are most often a positive benefit. The long worried concern about testosterone therapy inducing prostate cancer has, for the most part, been put to rest. TRT has been shown to provide benefits in this area, so long as prostate cancer is not present before treatment begins. For many people, the increased red blood cell count is a benefit as it reverses anemia when present.
What You Can Do to Minimize Testosterone Therapy Risks
If you are wondering what you can do to minimize any potential testosterone replacement therapy risks, there are some simple steps you can take to help improve your chances of only experiencing the positive benefits associated with TRT.
Here are the top ways to reduce the risk factors of testosterone treatment:
- Only seek diagnostic services and care from an experienced hormone replacement specialist
- Ensure that proper diagnostic blood testing and physical examination are required
- Provide a complete medical history background of all current and past health concerns
- Follow all medical guidelines and directions
- Donate blood occasionally to reduce the risk of blood clots and stroke
- Immediately report any adverse side effects to the doctor
- Never share medications with another individual
- Purchase all medications from legitimate licensed US pharmacies – never off of illegal internet websites
By following these guidelines, you will reduce the chances of developing any of the potential testosterone therapy risks while providing your body with the best possible treatment available to increase testosterone levels and overall health and well-being.
Useful Information:
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At Kingsberg Medical, we help men and women lead the exciting lives they desire by providing the finest level of hormone replacement care at affordable prices. No matter where in the US you reside, we can help. Please call for a free and confidential consultation today.
Brian Leeber
