As the saying goes, “Youth is wasted on the young.” Now that you are older and presumably wiser, your body is changing in ways you wish you could reverse. That includes lower levels of testosterone, the primary male hormone. Fortunately, it is possible to turn back the clock, perhaps a decade or more, if you are suffering from low testosterone.
A hormone therapy combination of testosterone treatment and another hormone, DHEA, may offer you the best results. Ask a doctor at our clinic about whether testosterone and DHEA treatment in Greenwich can help you feel younger both in mind and body.
Testosterone levels in men start falling by the time they are in their early 30s, but it is in middle age that they start really noticing a difference. Many symptoms attributed to aging are actually the result of low testosterone levels.
Officially, low testosterone occurs when hormone levels fall below 300 nanograms per deciliter. The normal range is above 300, up to 1,000 nanograms per deciliter. You can suspect low testosterone if any of the following symptoms appear:
While men go through a stage called andropause that is somewhat analogous to female menopause, it is not the same thing. With menopause, estrogen production shuts down significantly. Testosterone loss occurs more gradual, and the testicles continue to produce the hormone even in very old men.
Dehydroepiandrosterone, or DHEA, is produced by the adrenal glands. As with testosterone, DHEA levels drop as men age. As a prohormone, DHEA can actually raise testosterone levels.
Not only does DHEA aid in maintaining hormonal balance, but it also boosts the immune system and fights inflammation. It can additionally improve a man’s physical performance. Other benefits include easing depression, strengthening bones, and reducing the risk of developing diabetes.
While DHEA is available over-the-counter, the quality and effectiveness of the supplement varies greatly. Monitoring is also crucial, so it is important to work with a doctor during DHEA therapy.
Testosterone levels are determined via blood tests. If levels are low, treatment can begin. Testosterone is available in injectable, oral, topical, and implant forms. DHEA supplements, derived from soy and yam, are available in tablet form.
Some men may experience lower sperm counts when taking testosterone and DHEA. For that reason, men who want to father children should not undergo this therapy. Other men may experience hair loss or find themselves combating acne after treatment with testosterone and DHEA. Rarely, men using testosterone and DHEA may develop enlarged breasts, a condition known as gynecomastia.
Since these hormones may interact with certain medications, always let the doctor know which medications, whether prescription or over-the-counter, you are taking regularly. Also inform the doctor about any supplements you’re using. This can help a local physician determine your candidacy for treatment.
If you think low testosterone and DHEA levels are negatively impacting your life, you should not suffer in silence. Speak about your symptoms with an experienced testosterone and DHEA doctor to determine what treatment options are available.
Testosterone and DHEA treatment in Greenwich may help you feel years younger. A doctor can evaluate you and determine how these treatments can help. Call today to set up a free consultation.