A number of physical changes are possible, such as increased body fat, reduced muscle mass and strength, and decreased bone density. When you have low testosterone levels, you may notice that your sexual desire decreases. TRT Clinic in Cumberland ME can activate androgen receptors in the part of the brain that controls desire, says Abraham Morgentaler, MD, D. Muscles respond to testosterone and starting T therapy at TRT Clinic in Cumberland ME can increase muscle mass, says Dr. This is because testosterone activates androgen receptors in muscle tissue to stimulate growth.
Fatigue is a common symptom of low testosterone levels and, when we treat them, many men will say that their energy has improved, says Dr. It could also affect testicle size. Most of the testicle size is dedicated to producing sperm, so when fewer sperm are produced, the testicles get smaller, says Dr. Some people notice a little swelling in their feet and ankles because testosterone can stimulate the body to retain excess fluid, says Dr.
Testosterone replacement therapy can change skin type for better or worse, says Dr. Fortunately, this isn't as common, says Dr. Morgentaler is usually seen in men who have a history of acne. This is called gynecomastia, Dr. Morgentaler says, and it's not as common as other side effects.
If this happens, your doctor will likely stop treatment for a month or two to allow your breast tissue to return to normal and then give you testosterone again along with a medication that blocks the conversion of testosterone in estradiol. In the case of heart attacks and strokes, the concern is that testosterone thickens the blood because it binds to androgen receptors that stimulate the bone marrow to produce more red blood cells. Thicker blood is linked to a higher risk of heart attack and stroke. However, some recent studies suggest that normal testosterone levels might actually protect against these risks, says Dr.
Early changes tend to include oily skin, acne and the cessation of menstrual periods. Later changes may include changes in facial appearance, hair growth, changes in the clitoris, and increased muscle mass. Symptoms of low testosterone may start to appear earlier in some men, while others may not notice a difference until they are in old age (or don't notice any difference). However, consistently low levels of testosterone can affect physical and mental health, so it's important to talk to your primary care doctor as soon as you start having symptoms. There is no single answer to when someone should start to consider testosterone replacement therapy.
It may take a few weeks to a month or two for your symptoms to improve after starting testosterone replacement therapy. Dr. Men's men experience low testosterone levels in multiple and varied ways, which can affect the improvements they'll see after starting treatment. If you're prescribed testosterone therapy, you'll likely start to see some changes, big and small, pleasant and not so pleasant.
When you first start taking testosterone, the effects you experience may vary depending on the symptoms of low testosterone that you started with. You should start masculinizing hormone therapy only after you have discussed the risks and benefits, as well as treatment alternatives, with a healthcare provider who has experience caring for transgender people.
