Testosterone Matters
Feeling lethargic, gaining weight and having a low sex drive can seem an inevitable part of getting older. But research shows that a lack of testosterone could be at the root of these problems. The good news is that testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) could help.
What is Testosterone?
Testosterone is the male hormone which is responsible for sperm production and the emergence of secondary sexual characteristics like facial hair and a deep voice. It is essential for sexual function as well as promoting healthy blood circulation and maintaining muscle mass in the body. Men begin to suffer a steady decline in testosterone from around the age of 30 which continues for the rest of their lives. By the time they are 55, around half of men will have some symptoms of a lack of testosterone. Factors such as chronic stress are known to suppress production of the hormone while men with low testosterone levels are more likely to suffer from diabetes and heart disease. Data from the recent Massachusetts Male Ageing Study (MMAS) shows that the proportion of men suffering testosterone deficiency is increasing.
What symptoms indicate a low testosterone level?
Men can suffer from a range of symptoms, including tiredness, lethargy, a lack of motivation and generally feeling 'low'. They may be depressed, anxious or irritable and have feelings of helplessness or an inability to cope. A decreased interest in sex is another common feature and men may have problems achieving or maintaining an erection. Some men gain weight around the middle and can find it harder to lose weight than when they were younger. Reduced muscle and bone mass, aching bones and joints (particularly knees), sweating and poor concentration can also occur. Many men put these changes down to simply "getting older" and suffer in silence. It can be a long time before they are properly diagnosed. Research shows that only 6% of men with one or more symptoms of testosterone deficiency have had their hormone levels checked.
How can TRT help?
The safety and effectiveness of TRT has been demonstrated in a large number of clinical studies and during many years' experience in clinical practice. Men taking TRT report greater sexual desire, improved ability to achieve and maintain erections and a feeling of vitality and vigour. The treatment also increases muscle mass and strength, cuts body fat and improves mood, thereby boosting self-esteem. In the long-term, TRT can lead to an increase in bone density, reducing the risk of osteoporosis-related fractures. There is also preliminary evidence that TRT may prevent cardiovascular disease. The treatment comes in several forms, including gels and implants, and doctors from The WellMan Clinic will be able to discuss the options with you. For men who find their medication for erectile dysfunction is failing to work, doctors will be able to investigate and correct the problem.
Treatment at The WellMan Clinic
Doctors from The WellMan Clinic have more than 20 years' experience in helping men with low testosterone levels. We will discuss treatments available to you in our discreet and comfortable clinic, located at the heart of the Harley Street community. Many men find they can begin treatment within a few days of their initial consultation. Often, they only have to attend the clinic a few times a year to keep up with treatment. The WellMan Clinic also offers a yearly check-up, including full blood screening, for men taking TRT.
Are there any side-effects?
The aim of treatment is to restore testosterone levels to within the normal range and therefore side effects are rare. Occasionally, mild acne occurs at the beginning of treatment but this often disappears quickly. Men who already have prostate cancer should not undertake testosterone therapy as evidence suggests it can stimulate cancer growth and aggravate symptoms. However, there is no evidence that TRT actually causes prostate cancer. In fact, studies have suggested that the prevalence of prostate cancer in men receiving therapy is about 1% - similar to the general population. All men attending The WellMan Clinic will receive check-ups over the course of their treatment to monitor any changes in their prostate-specific antigen (PSA) level, which is an indicator of the disease.
Where can I find out more about this topic?
Medical terms for testosterone deficiency include male hypogonadism and testosterone deficiency syndrome. Sometimes, men are said to be entering the 'male menopause' or 'andropause'.
A large number of research papers have been published on the benefits of TRT for treating this deficiency.
A recent review from the University of Washington School of Medicine confirms the scientific basis for andropause while guidelines on treating men have recently been issued by the International Society of Andrology, the European Association of Urology, the American Society of Andrology and the International Association for the Study of the Aging Male (Journal of Andrology).
Copies of these papers and more are available from The WellMan Clinic.
June 2004 - The Practitioner
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