National Men’s Health Week encourages men to engage in positive choices and take steps towards a healthier lifestyle. The week also provokes conversations about current and future health issues that aging men face. Hypogonadism (also known as testosterone deficiency) is one major health concern. This condition can attribute to low testosterone (Low T) levels, which may cause adverse physical and emotional symptoms. Here are some key low testosterone facts you should know:
A study in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism found one in four men over 30 experience low testosterone. These statistics mean that you or someone you know will probably look into using Low T therapy. But before you jump on the Low T bandwagon, let’s look at why testosterone drops. Then we’ll examine how Low T therapy works, and whether or not it’s worth the risks.
Low Testosterone Facts: It’s Natural for Levels to Decrease with Age
As you age, your testosterone levels naturally decline. According to the Mayo Clinic, testosterone levels typically decrease 1% each year after you turn 30. But there’s a difference between naturally declining testosterone and hypogonadism (which happens when you’re unable to produce adequate testosterone amounts). A hypogonadism diagnosis usually prompts your doctor to suggest testosterone replacement therapy to get your levels back to normal. Men who choose to undergo therapy will typically experience a more youthful feel and may have increased levels of energy.
It’s important to remember that while Low T therapies can help men who suffer from hypogonadism, men who have a natural decline in testosterone levels will usually not be advised to seek this form of therapy. Consulting your doctor on what type of regime is best for you can be the best way to determine if treatment is needed. Keep in mind that there are also natural ways that may help get testosterone levels back on track. Among these natural methods are weight loss, reducing stress levels, and certain forms of exercise.
Low Testosterone Facts: Treatment Options
Recently, Low T treatment facilities have been popping up on every corner. Radio and TV commercials promising increased energy, muscle mass, and improved sex drive entice men to try it. You’ll need a blood test to check your current testosterone levels to know whether you’re a Low T therapy candidate. If your test shows low testosterone levels, your doctor can prescribe Low T therapy to regain normal levels.
Be sure to talk with your doctor about how treatment works and which type of therapy you should use. Low T therapies come in the form of gels, patches, pellets, and injections, so there is a prescription option for every lifestyle. Use caution, because Low T therapy exposure can can cause hormonal side effects in women as well as children.
Low Testosterone Facts: Be Cautious of Low T Therapy Risks
Before you commit to a long-term Low T therapy regimen, carefully weigh the possible risks and benefits. In November 2013, The Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) published a report on low testosterone therapy. JAMA studied men over 60 with Low T levels who recently had a coronary angiography. The study observed a fraction of the men prescribed one type of Low T therapy as well as a control group. The study concluded that the men who had taken a Low T therapy had a 30% increased risk of heart attack, stroke, or death.
Due to the JAMA findings, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) released a drug safety communication about the therapy. The communication warned about the increased risk of adverse complications in using Low T treatments and prompted them to begin an investigation. This FDA warning prompted many Low T victims to sue drug manufacturers. These victims say they didn’t know about increased cardiovascular side effect risks, which amounts to negligence.
What You Can Do
If either you or a loved one suffered life-threatening Low T side effects, you may qualify for compensation. Our free low testosterone case review will help you determine if you may qualify for legal representation from an attorney in our network. Don’t wait: Find out if you may have a claim and closer you may be to receiving the justice you deserve.
Jared Heath
Jared Heath is the author of The Sound in the Silence. In his role as an SEO content and digital marketing strategist, Jared was directly responsible for managing DrugJustice.com's editorial calendar and published articles on this website from 2015 to 2016. He is now pursuing a new career as a chiropractor.