Houston Testosterone Clinic
Testosterone is the main male sex hormone that is produced in the testes. It’s what causes men to develop and maintain secondary sexual characteristics, such as facial hair, body hair, and a deep voice. Additionally, this hormone plays a vital role in helping men build and maintain muscle mass. For men, testosterone levels peak during early adulthood. On average, male testosterone levels begin to decrease after age 30.
Having a low level of testosterone is commonly referred to as having Low T. The terms andropause or hypogonadism are also sometimes used depending on the cause of the condition. Average testosterone levels generally fall between 300 to 1,200 nanograms per deciliter (ng/dl). Injections of testosterone as prescribed by the doctors at our clinic can help men maintain hormone levels in the normal range.
The Signs of Low T Levels
If your testosterone levels are lower than average, you can experience a wide range of symptoms. Low levels of this hormone can result in the loss of muscle mass and strength. As lean muscle mass decreases, the amount of fat stored on the body can increase.
There are a number of other signs that can indicate you have the condition. These include:
- Loss of energy
- Loss of libido
- Erectile dysfunction
- Decrease in bone strength
- Depressed mood
Causes of Low Testosterone Levels
Aging is one of the most common causes of Low T. After age 30, men’s testosterone levels naturally begin to decrease between one and three percent per year. Another one of the main causes is obesity. An enzyme in body fat can convert testosterone into estrogen, which is the main female sex hormone. This means that if you have a lot of fat stored away, it can cause your T levels to drop. Low T can also cause a decrease in energy levels, which can make it difficult to feel motivated to exercise in order to lose weight.
Low levels of this hormone can also be caused by:
- Testicular cancer or cancer treatment
- Testicular injuries
- Type 2 diabetes
- Chronic kidney disease
- Genetic conditions
What is Testosterone Replacement Therapy?
Testosterone replace therapy, or HRT, replaces the testosterone in your body, so your hormones return to a healthy level. Testosterone replacement therapy can be administered by intramuscular injections, which are usually done on a weekly basis. You can complete injections by yourself at home. Another option is to apply a cream or gel.
When you visit our clinic, our doctors can evaluate your symptoms, discuss whether you have Low T, and help you understand your options for therapy. A blood test can help determine your exact levels. With this information, our doctors can determine the dosage needed for your prescription more accurately.
How Can Men Benefit from TRT?
There are a number of benefits associated with testosterone replacement therapy for adult men. Over a period of months, injections of replacement testosterone can lead to an increase in lean muscle tissue, an increase in bone density, and a decrease in body fat. Healthy testosterone levels can also lead to an increase in your sex drive and a decrease in erectile dysfunction. Overall, it can give you more energy and help enhance your overall sense of well-being.
There are some possible side effects that can come along with testosterone replacement therapy. If hormone levels become too high due to regular injections, it can cause the blood to thicken, leading to an increased risk of blood clots. Uncommon side effects include sleep apnea and breast enlargement. The doctors at our clinic can help monitor your levels so that the risk of side effects can be mitigated.
Our Clinic in Houston
The doctors at our clinic can help you understand all of the ways you can benefit from this type of therapy. We’ll make sure you’re well-educated about all of your treatment options.