Unlocking the Truth about Low-T: Understanding its Effects, Implications, and Safety
Men go through aging problems just like women do. You may have heard commercials about Low-T and its impact on men. The many symptoms can be addressed by treatment, but are they safe?
In a world where superheroes are often depicted as invincible, it's important to remember that even men can face their own battles, such as Low-T. Just like a kryptonite draining Superman's strength, low testosterone can sap a man's energy, vitality, and confidence.
Do you, or a man in your life, suffer from Low-T? You hear many radio commercials about the problem, and it seems like some men must deal with the consequences of Low-T.
Low testosterone, also known as hypogonadism, is a condition in which men have lower-than-normal testosterone levels. Testosterone is a hormone that is produced by the testicles and is responsible for a variety of male sex characteristics, including muscle mass, bone density, and sex drive.
There are several causes of low testosterone, including aging, certain medications, and medical conditions such as obesity and chronic kidney disease. Low testosterone can also be caused by a condition called primary hypogonadism, in which the testicles do not produce enough testosterone.
Radio commercials targeting men often highlight low testosterone symptoms, such as decreased sex drive and erectile dysfunction. The symptoms of low testosterone can vary from person to person, but they may include:
- Fatigue
- Loss of muscle mass
- Decreased sex drive
- Erectile dysfunction
- Difficulty concentrating
- Mood changes
- Hot flashes
If you, or a loved one are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to see a doctor to get testosterone levels checked. Low testosterone can be diagnosed with a simple blood test.
Treatment Options
If you are diagnosed with low testosterone, several treatment options are available, including testosterone replacement therapy (TRT). TRT involves taking testosterone supplements to raise your testosterone levels to normal.
Is TRT a safe and effective treatment for low testosterone? Amidst the growing popularity of testosterone replacement therapy among American men, limited knowledge exists regarding its impact on men's health, particularly the heart. Consequently, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) mandated the manufacturers of testosterone therapies to conduct safety trials to uncover further insights. One of the studies in this endeavor was led by the Cleveland Clinic.
Senior author Steven Nissen, MD, Chief Academic Officer of the Heart, Vascular & Thoracic Institute at Cleveland Clinic, said the study was intended to get the answer to the question, were there more cardiovascular events in men who were getting testosterone compared to men who are getting a placebo? The answer, Nissen said, is that there were not.
There were almost identical numbers of events in the placebo group and in the men taking testosterone. However, it is very important that we not over-interpret the findings. This was a very specific group of patients.
A study conducted by Dr. Nissen and his team involved 5,246 men aged 45 to 80 with low testosterone levels. The participants either had heart disease or were at high risk and exhibited symptoms of low testosterone, such as reduced sexual desire, loss of body hair, and depression.
The participants were divided into two groups: one received testosterone gel, while the other received a placebo. The results indicated that testosterone treatment did not pose significant risks in terms of major heart-related problems, including heart attack and stroke. However, certain safety concerns outside of heart-related issues were observed.
There was a higher rate of venous thromboembolism, that's clots in the legs – wasn't a large number, but there was an imbalance toward testosterone. And in fact, the current guidelines suggest that men who have had clots in their legs should not be treated with testosterone. That was probably the most important and most serious adverse event that was observed.
Dr. Nissen said the testosterone group also experienced more kidney issues and A-fib, which is an irregular heart rhythm. He cautions men about using testosterone therapy unless it's really needed and says it's best to talk to your doctor about appropriate blood tests and treatment options.
The general risks of TRT include an increased risk of prostate cancer, heart disease, and stroke. TRT is not right for everyone, and weighing the risks and benefits before starting treatment is important. If you are considering TRT, it is important to talk to your doctor about the best treatment option for you.
Lab Work and Low-T
Testosterone is a hormone that is produced by the testicles and is responsible for a variety of male sex characteristics, including muscle mass, bone density, and sex drive.
The normal range of testosterone levels in men varies depending on age, but it is generally considered to be between 300 and 1,000 nanograms per deciliter (ng/dL).
The diagnosis of low testosterone (Low-T) typically involves laboratory tests to measure testosterone levels in a person's blood. A doctor may order specific lab work to assess hormone levels and confirm a diagnosis of Low-T.
The primary test ordered is the total testosterone test, which measures the overall testosterone level in the blood. This test is commonly performed in the morning, as testosterone levels tend to be highest during that time of day.
In addition to the total testosterone test, doctors may also order a free testosterone test. This test measures the amount of testosterone that is not bound to proteins in the blood and is available for use by the body.
Furthermore, additional blood tests may be conducted to evaluate other hormonal factors that could contribute to Low-T. These may include tests to assess luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), and sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) levels.
Low-T and Dementia
Some evidence suggests that there may be a connection between testosterone and dementia. For example, studies have shown that men with low testosterone levels are more likely to develop dementia than men with normal testosterone levels. Additionally, some studies have shown that testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) may help to improve cognitive function in men with dementia.
A study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association in 2010 found that men with low testosterone levels were more likely to develop dementia than men with normal testosterone levels. The study followed over 7,000 men for an average of 12 years.
Another published in the journal Nature Medicine in 2013 found that testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) may help to improve cognitive function in men with dementia. The study involved 120 men with Alzheimer's disease.
However, it is important to note that these studies are just two examples, and many other studies have been done on this topic. More research is needed to confirm the link between testosterone and dementia.
Aging and Being Prepared
Several chronic health issues develop as we age. Long-term care is often a result of a chronic illness, mobility difficulties, accidents, and frailty. Are you prepared for the costs and burdens of aging?
If you are in your 40s or 50s and have not yet planned, that is the ideal time to do so. Long-Term Care Insurance has become a key part of a complete retirement plan. This is the best time to prepare since health problems start to develop after age 60, often preventing us from obtaining coverage.
Every insurance company has its specific underwriting requirements, and those guidelines vary depending on the company. Premiums are also based on your age, health, family history, and other factors.
Whether it is your health or retirement planning, advance planning will improve your outcomes.
About the Author
Linda Maxwell is a retired journalist who now focuses on writing about topics that captivate her, such as aging, health, long-term care, and retirement issues. Her aim is to maintain an active and engaged mind, and through her writing, she hopes to help others stay positively engaged with life.
Linda Maxwell
Contributor since December 11th, 2017
Editor's Note
Traditionally, long-term care has been associated with women due to their longer life expectancy and a higher likelihood of requiring extended care. However, as men are now taking better care of themselves and experiencing increased lifespans, they are facing similar longevity challenges as women.
With the growing aging population, the need for long-term care services and support is becoming increasingly important for both men and women. Long-term care encompasses a range of services, including assistance with activities of daily living, nursing care, and support for chronic illnesses or disabilities. As men are living longer, they may face a higher probability of requiring long-term care at some point in their lives.
The shift in men's health and the recognition of their longevity problems have prompted a greater focus on preventive healthcare and lifestyle choices. Men are now more aware of the importance of regular health screenings, healthy diets, exercise, and overall self-care. By prioritizing their well-being, men can potentially reduce the risk of chronic illnesses and disabilities that may necessitate long-term care in the future.
Moreover, as men are becoming increasingly engaged in managing their health, they are seeking to address long-term health care planning proactively. This includes considering Long-Term Care Insurance to ensure they are prepared for potential care needs, protect assets, and reduce the burdens care can place on their families and finances.
It is crucial to recognize that long-term care is no longer solely a concern for women. Men's changing health behaviors and improved self-care practices are contributing to the need for greater awareness, planning, and access to long-term care services. By acknowledging these shifts and actively engaging in long-term care planning, men can enhance their overall well-being and ensure their future care needs are met with dignity and security.
Consider these facts:
- The average life expectancy for men in the United States is 76.1 years, compared to 81.1 years for women.
- The number of men over the age of 65 is expected to increase by 40% between now and 2030.
- The cost of long-term care can be significant, and many men are not prepared for the expense, nor are their spouses or adult children able to provide care.
- There are a variety of long-term care services available, including in-home care, assisted living, and nursing homes. Those with Long-Term Care Insurance have access to their choice of quality care options.
- Men should start planning for long-term care as early as possible; most people do so in their 40s or 50s as part of a complete retirement plan.
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