Testosterone treatments

What is Testosterone and Why is it Important?

Testosterone is an androgen hormone produced mainly in the testes in men and ovaries in women. It plays a key role in sexual and reproductive development. Testosterone is responsible for:

Sex drive and sexual function
Muscle mass and strength
Bone density
Fat distribution
Red blood cell production
Mood regulation

In both genders, adequate testosterone levels are crucial for overall health and wellbeing.

Signs and Symptoms of Low Testosterone

Many patients visit our clinic with concerns about low testosterone (also called low T or hypogonadism). Some common symptoms of testosterone deficiency include:

Low libido or erectile dysfunction
Reduced muscle mass and strength
Increased body fat and difficulty losing weight
Loss of energy and fatigue
Depression, irritability or mood swings
Difficulty concentrating
Loss of facial, body, or pubic hair
Hot flashes or night sweats

Keep in mind that symptoms can develop slowly over time. Having one or more of these symptoms does not necessarily mean you have low T. Blood testing is needed to confirm. Our experienced physicians can evaluate your symptoms, risk factors, and lab results to determine if hormone therapy is recommended.

Health Risks of Low Testosterone

In addition to quality of life impacts, untreated testosterone deficiency poses serious health risks:

Bone loss - Low T is linked to osteoporosis in men. Testosterone helps maintain bone mineral density.
Cardiovascular disease - Men with low testosterone have higher rates of heart disease, stroke, and mortality. Testosterone may help open blood vessels and improve cholesterol.
Metabolic syndrome - Low T is associated with obesity, high blood sugar, and other metabolic risks.
Depression - Men with hypogonadism are at greater risk of clinical depression. Testosterone plays a role in mood regulation.

The good news? Many of these health risks can be reduced through proper testosterone replacement under a doctor's care. At Balance Hormone Clinic, we focus on the big picture of your health.

Who Should Be Screened for Low Testosterone?

The Endocrine Society recommends screening men for low T if they have any of the following:

Erectile dysfunction
Loss of libido or decreased sexual performance
Reduced muscle mass and strength
Obesity, difficulty losing weight
Osteoporosis
Depressed mood
Infertility

Screening may also be advised for men over age 50, as testosterone levels naturally decline with age.

Women should also be evaluated for testosterone deficiency if they have low libido, fatigue, depression, or other unexplained symptoms.

Blood work is required to diagnose low testosterone. Balance Hormone Clinic uses advanced reference labs for accurate results.

Interesting fact

While testosterone therapy is often associated with increased aggression, recent research shows it can actually have the opposite effect in some men by improving mood and decreasing irritability. This is likely due to testosterone's role in regulating neurotransmitters like serotonin that influence emotions and behavior.

Benefits of Testosterone Replacement Therapy

For patients diagnosed with low T, the good news is that there are excellent treatment options available. When properly prescribed and monitored by a physician, testosterone therapy offers life-changing benefits:

Increased sex drive and sexual function
Improved energy, mood, and mental sharpness
Reduced body fat and increased muscle mass
Stronger bones and reduced fracture risk
Better heart health and cholesterol levels
Enhanced quality of life

At Balance Hormone Clinic, we develop customized treatment plans to help each patient reach their unique health goals.

Balance Hormone Clinic: Trusted Experts in Testosterone Therapy

Balance Hormone Clinic specializes in all forms of testosterone replacement, including injections, gels, pellets, and more. Our board-certified physicians have decades of experience properly diagnosing and treating low T. We take the time to listen to your health concerns, evaluate your symptoms, and order the appropriate lab testing to determine if testosterone therapy is right for you.

Some key reasons patients trust Balance Hormone Clinic for their care:

All treatment plans are customized for your unique needs
We use the latest forms of testosterone therapy
Treatment is always overseen by a licensed physician
Close monitoring to optimize results and prevent side effects
Ongoing support and adjustments as needed
Convenient clinic with flexible scheduling

Don't struggle with the symptoms of low testosterone any longer. The knowledgeable doctors at Balance Hormone Clinic are here to help you feel your best. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.

FAQ on Testosterone Treatments

What is testosterone and why do people take it?

Testosterone is a hormone that is important for the development of male growth and characteristics. Some men have low testosterone levels, which can cause symptoms like decreased sex drive, erectile dysfunction, low energy, and depression. Testosterone replacement therapy can help increase testosterone levels and relieve these symptoms. It comes in many forms including pills, patches, gels, and injections. Getting a blood test is important to determine if you truly have low testosterone before starting treatment.

What are the benefits of testosterone treatments?

There are several benefits that men may experience from testosterone replacement therapy. The main benefits are increased energy and sex drive, improved muscle mass and strength, decreased body fat, sharper memory and concentration, and an overall improved sense of well-being. Many men report feeling 10-15 years younger after starting testosterone therapy. It can really help get your mojo back!

What are the risks or side effects of testosterone therapy?

Potential side effects of testosterone therapy include acne or oily skin, breast enlargement, prostate issues, infertility, testicle shrinkage, and an increased risk of blood clots. It's important to have regular checkups with your doctor to monitor any side effects. Using the lowest effective dose can help reduce risks. Excess testosterone therapy can also lead to aggression, though this is uncommon at appropriate doses.

How is testosterone administered and what's the process?

Testosterone can be administered as injections, gels, patches, pills, or pellets implanted under the skin. Your doctor will determine the best form for your needs. It usually starts with a trial of gels or injections for a few months, with regular bloodwork to dial in your dosage. Once your levels stabilize, you may switch to a longer-acting method like pellets implanted every 3-6 months. The process is customized to your hormones and preferences. Most men feel the effects within weeks.

What results can I expect from testosterone therapy?

Results vary, but most men see notable improvements in energy, sex drive, body composition, mood, and motivation within 1-3 months. Maximum benefits often take 6-12 months. It's important to balance your expectations, make healthy lifestyle choices, and work closely with your doctor to optimize results. Be patient, as some changes are gradual. With consistent treatment, testosterone can help you feel healthy, vigorous and confident again.