6 Benefits of HRT for Men
HRT For Men Also
Guys, hormone replacement therapy isn’t just for women. More men are coming to the party and realizing HRT for men is improving their quality of life and providing them much relief from health issues caused by hormonal imbalances.
Men experience hormonal deficiencies, too.
Male Menopause
Often termed male menopause or “manopause,” the clinical term is andropause, which describes an age-related decline in testosterone and the symptoms men experience as their testosterone production levels decrease over time.
Unlike women, who experience a rapid drop in hormonal levels at menopause, men begin to experience a more gradual decrease of testosterone levels beginning in their 30s. This natural decline continues about 1% per year throughout a man’s life.
When a man’s testosterone levels dip below 300 nanograms per deciliter, the medical community diagnoses him with low testosterone (Low-t); however, a study published in the New England Journal of Medicine in September 2013 reveals that men don’t need to reach that benchmark to experience the symptoms of andropause.
The Symptoms of Low Testosterone
Low levels of testosterone, clinically known as hypogonadism, can lead to dysfunction and/or disease in other body organs that are regulated by the hormone.
When a man has low testosterone (or hypogonadism), he may experience:
- reduced sex drive
- erectile dysfunction
- low sperm count
- enlarged or swollen breast tissue
Over time, these symptoms may develop in the following ways:
- loss of body hair
- loss of muscle mass
- loss of strength
- increased body fat
Chronic, or ongoing, low testosterone may lead to osteoporosis, mood swings, reduced energy, and testicular shrinkage.
Testing For Low Testosterone
If you suspect you have low testosterone, don’t stress. It is easily treated. In his practice, Dr. Fliedner conducts a blood test to determine his patients’ testosterone levels. He discusses the results and prescribes a hormonal therapy unique to each of his patient’s needs. Simply call our office at 469-455-1665 to schedule an appointment.
The Benefits of HRT For Men
Restoring healthy levels of testosterone delivers innumerable health advantages.
1. Lower Risk of Heart Attack and Stroke
A study in 2015 among 83,000 men found that men who underwent HRT for men and whose testosterone levels returned to normal were 24 percent less likely to have a heart attack and 36 percent less likely to experience a stroke.
2. Improved Muscle Mass and Strength
Testosterone is responsible for increased muscle mass. A leaner body mass helps control weight and increases energy. Hormone replacement therapy can decrease fat mass and increase muscle size and strength, as reported by the US National Library of Medicine.
3. Stronger Bones
Testosterone plays a huge role in bone mineral density. As testosterone decreases over age, bone density decreases, and the risk of weak bones and osteoporosis increases. Research shows that increasing testosterone will increase bone mineral density, boost energy and improve overall athletic performance.
4. Improved Brain Functioning
According to the National Center for Biotechnology Information, numerous published studies show a correlation exists between increased testosterone and improved thinking abilities such as verbal and spatial memory.
5. Improved Libido
Much has been said about this in the media. And it’s true. Studies show that testosterone therapy can improve sexual desire, health, and performance.
6. Improved Mood
HRT for men has been shown to improve mood and well-being while reducing fatigue and irritability. Research suggests that this treatment may also be an effective antidepressant treatment.
Next Steps
If you’re wondering whether HRT for men might be right for you, give us a call to schedule a consultation with Dr. Fliedner. You don’t have to accept symptoms of andropause as just another part of getting older. Speak with Dr. Fliedner about what you can do to recover what you’ve been missing.
Call our office at 469-455-1665 to schedule an appointment or contact us through our website.