In the United States, approximately 13 million, or one in four, men take testosterone replacement therapy, also known as TRT. This common hormonal imbalance treatment not only boosts testosterone levels but also libido and energy. Men who take it additionally can increase their muscle mass.
However, testosterone replacement therapy is not without its risks. By learning about potential TRT steroids’ side effects, you can decide if this treatment is right for you.
Common Side Effects of TRT
This hormone replacement treatment carries several risks, which you should learn about. Skin issues count as one of the most common side effects that men often experience while taking it. This therapy increases oil production in the skin. This increased production leads to problems like zits, acne, and oily skin texture.
Additionally, some men report experiencing fluid retention while undergoing this hormonal therapy. The swelling occurs throughout the body, especially in the hands, feet, legs, and arms. Fluid retention can pose a challenge to both your appearance and everyday mobility.
You could also experience higher blood pressure while undergoing this treatment. If you are undergoing treatment for high blood pressure already, you could find that your current medications no longer keep it under control. If you have normal blood pressure, you may find that your blood pressure levels increase while you are on this therapy.
You could also experience mood swings. The steroids cause your hormones to fluctuate. This fluctuation can lead to increased feelings of depression and anxiety. You could even feel angrier than usual and be prone to hostile outbursts or aggressive behavior.
Even more, you could develop sleep problems. You may experience sleeplessness, which can interfere with your job and normal daily routine.
Finally, you may put yourself at a higher risk of cardiovascular problems while taking this therapy. You could find yourself at an increased risk of a heart attack or stroke. This risk especially prevails in men who already have high blood pressure or conditions like Type 2 diabetes.
With that, you should carefully weigh the decision to start TRT if you have low testosterone levels. While this treatment can remedy problems like low libido, decreased energy and erectile dysfunction, it can pose a serious hazard to other aspects of your wellness. While you undergo this therapy, you should remain under the care of a physician who can monitor you and help you achieve its benefits safely and effectively.
Additional Risks
Along with these primary risks, TRT can introduce additional risks beyond standard therapy. These extraordinary side effects include:
● Hormonal imbalances
● Liver damage
● Gynecomastia, or the enlargement of male breast tissue
● Infertility
● Heart and kidney strain
These side effects occur in a small percentage of men who take this hormonal imbalance treatment. For example, gynecomastia afflicts less than one percent of patients undergoing this type of care. Still, you should ask your physician about your risk of developing them. You can then decide if undergoing this type of hormonal therapy is right for you.
How to Minimize the Risks of Testosterone Replacement Therapy
You have several options available to help you minimize the risks of TRT. Your first option involves consulting with a specialist who has experience prescribing steroids to and treating patients with low T. Your specialist will perform a thorough physical examination and order bloodwork to determine your overall wellness. He or she can then recommend if this treatment is right for you and prescribe testosterone in the ideal dosage for your hormone levels.
You should also undergo regular monitoring. This monitoring should occur every few months to ensure the hormone replacement does not harm your liver. Your doctor can also verify if your hormone levels increase and the treatment poses any serious health risks.
You can additionally make lifestyle changes. These changes can include:
● Stopping smoking
● Minimizing alcohol consumption
● Exercising every day
● Getting enough sleep
● Using high-quality skin care products
You should also minimize stress to keep your blood pressure low and mitigate your heart attack and stroke risk.
Finally, you can lower the risk of side effects by avoiding self-medication. You should follow the prescribed dosage and instructions for using this treatment. You should avoid increasing your dosage or using the medication more frequently if you do not experience the benefits from it right away. Your doctor can adjust the dosage as he or she monitors your health and testosterone production.
Testosterone replacement therapy benefits millions of men with low T. It improves their libido and stamina and helps them build muscle mass. However, it can also come with various risks you should be aware of. You can discuss the benefits and risks of this therapy with a specialist and decide if this treatment is right for you.