Hormone Replacement Therapy for Men
On average, men lose around 1% of their body’s total testosterone every year after turning 30. Low male hormones can cause a variety of problems in an adult man, and low hormone levels may happen for a variety of reasons.
Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) has proven to be an effective way for men to address the many symptoms of hormonal imbalance. Discover how to recognize the symptoms of hormonal imbalance, and what you can do to address those symptoms so you can get back to having more energy and greater vitality.
What is Hormone Replacement Therapy?
Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is a therapy designed to restore hormone levels in the body. This treatment is recommended for men and women who are experiencing symptoms or conditions of hormonal imbalance, such as low testosterone, thyroid dysfunction, sleeplessness, irritability, and more.
To find out if you are a candidate for HRT, schedule a consultation with one of our trained practitioners who specializes in hormone balance. Your practitioner will assess your current health medical history, symptoms and collect labs to develop a comprehensive treatment plan to restore hormone balance.
Low Testosterone in Men
Men may have low testosterone for a variety of reasons. Some men are simply born with testosterone levels that are lower than average.
Older men have lower testosterone levels due to the fact that men lose some testosterone as they age. Older men may also be more likely to have health problems that affect hormones.
How Common is Low Testosterone in Men?
Low testosterone in men is more common than you might expect. This is because many men have low testosterone levels without even knowing it. Experts also debate the definition of what constitutes “low testosterone levels”. Yet, it has been estimated that roughly 4 out of 10 men over the age of 40 have low or diminished levels of testosterone.
Causes of Low T in Men
Low testosterone, also known as hypogonadism, can be broken down into two categories: primary and secondary.
Primary hypogonadism is when the testes do not produce adequate amounts of testosterone. The causes of primary hypogonadism can range from congenital conditions like Klinefelter’s syndrome to testicle injuries, use of anabolic steroids, and some types of tumors.
Secondary hypogonadism describes low testosterone that occurs as a result of conditions or issues with the pituitary glands. Secondary hypogonadism can also come from congenital conditions or be acquired later in life. Some of the most common acquired causes include kidney failure, chronic alcohol abuse, cirrhosis of the liver, unchecked diabetes and even obesity. In fact, many experts believe that there is a strong connection between obesity and low testosterone.
The type of low testosterone that is often tied to the natural aging process is known as late-onset hypogonadism (LOH). LOH is also more likely in aging men who are overweight.
Symptoms of Low T in Men
Low testosterone can result in a wide variety of debilitating symptoms in men, including:
- Low sex drive
- Erectile dysfunction (ED)
- Enlarged breast tissue (gynecomastia)
- Hot flashes
- Increased body fat
- Mood swings and depressed mood
- Decreased muscle mass
- Memory loss and cognitive decline
Long Term Health Risks of Low Testosterone in Men
There are many long-term health risks that may occur when low testosterone levels are not treated. For one, men with low testosterone levels are more likely to gain weight and develop weak muscles. Chronic weight gain and obesity can lead to a number of cardiovascular issues and increase the risk of diabetes.
Men with low testosterone levels are also more likely to develop weak bones. They can even develop osteoporosis, which is a serious condition that weakens the bones and increases the risk of fractures.
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Causes of Thyroid Dysfunction in Men
There are several things that may cause thyroid dysfunction. For example, thyroiditis is inflammation of the thyroid gland and it may influence the gland’s ability to produce hormones.
There are also certain autoimmune conditions, such as Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, that may destroy cells in the thyroid. This makes it difficult for the thyroid to work properly.
Symptoms of Thyroid Dysfunction in Men
The symptoms of thyroid dysfunction depend on whether they have occurred as a result of hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism, although fatigue can be tied to both conditions.
Thyroid Dysfunction in Men
Thyroid dysfunction may occasionally cause a hormonal imbalance in men. The thyroid is a small gland in the middle of the neck that is responsible for controlling several hormones throughout the body.
If the thyroid malfunctions, certain thyroid hormones may not be produced in the correct amounts. Thyroid dysfunction can describe either inadequate levels of thyroid (hypothyroidism) or too much thyroid (hyperthyroidism).
How Common is Thyroid Dysfunction in Men?
Thyroid problems are less common in men than they are in women. Most experts believe this stems from the fact that autoimmune diseases, which are more common in women, are often responsible for thyroid dysfunction.
The most common symptoms of hypothyroidism (low thyroid) include:
- Fatigue
- Hair loss
- Memory loss
- Cognitive decline
- Joint pain
- Depression
- Muscle aches
- Weight gain
These are some of the most common symptoms of hyperthyroidism (high thyroid):
- Fatigue
- Weight loss
- Anxiety
- Increased heartbeat
- Weak muscles
- Sleep issues
Long Term Health Risks of Untreated Thyroid Disorder
If left untreated, thyroid dysfunction may result in in damage to the peripheral nerves–the nerves that carry information from the brain and the spinal cord to the rest of the body. The result is often pain, numbness, and tingling in the arms and legs. Chronic fatigue, infertility, blurred vision, and heart problems are also effects of untreated thyroid.
Erectile Dysfunction in Men
Natural menopause marks the end of the reproductive period of a woman’s life. It officially occurs when a woman’s menstrual cycles have ended, after having no period for 12 consecutive months (absent the use of birth control, which may cause periods to stop temporarily prior to actual menopause).
At what age does menopause happen?
According to the Office on Women’s Health, the average age a woman experiences menopause in the US is 52.
Causes and Symptoms of ED
ED is generally caused by poor blood flow to the penis. Low testosterone may also play a role in erectile dysfunction.
The primary symptom is the inability to reach erection or sustain an erection for sexual intercourse.
Achievement of an erection is an important part of male sexual health. Whether psychological or physiological, men should seek treatment to avoid long term risk of disease, impaired relationships, and more.
Long Term Health Risks of ED
The main risk of ED is that it may be a symptom of a more serious condition, such atherosclerosis, heart disease, kidney disease, or type 2 diabetes.
Also, it can ruin a man’s sexual relationship with his partner. This can be difficult on a psychological level as well.
How Common is Erectile Dysfunction?
ED is a relatively common problem. Around 30 million men in the United States suffer from it.
It tends to be more common in older men. However, it sometimes occurs in young men.
Hormone Imbalance in Men
How are Hormonal Imbalances in Men Diagnosed?
Generally, symptoms begin to compile leading to impaired function or discomfort. A hormone imbalance is often confirmed and diagnosed through a consultation with a qualified practitioner and lab tests.
If the tests show abnormal hormone levels, you may be diagnosed with a hormonal imbalance.
How are Hormonal Imbalances in Men Treated?
Hormonal imbalances are often treated with hormone therapy, nutraceuticals, and a balanced, healthy lifestyle that includes routine fitness, proper nutrition, and maintaining a healthy weight. When hormone levels are optimized, men experience increased energy, improved mood, quality sleep, and other benefits that make it easier to enjoy a higher quality of life and pursue a healthier lifestyle.
Hormone Therapy for Men:
Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)
Low testosterone is the most common hormonal imbalance in men. However, thyroid disorder is another common imbalance. Men who are experiencing symptoms that are impacting quality of life, relationships, and health should seek treatment from a qualified healthcare professional. Hormone replacement therapy is an effective treatment option.
What are the Different HRT Delivery Methods?
There are a variety of hormone therapy delivery methods. You can select the option that best suits your lifestyle and delivers optimal results. Your practitioner can review the various options and make recommendations as part of your treatment plan.
Creams and Gels
Creams and gels have the benefit of being easy to use. However, creams and gels require daily application–sometimes two to three times per day.
Creams and gels can be messy and result in inconsistent dosing if the cream or gel fails to absorb properly, is rubbed off or a dose is missed or forgotten. This can impact the effectiveness of the therapy.
Creams and gels also carry the risk of transferring hormones to anyone who comes in contact with them, even if that means just brushing up against the medication by accident. This can be dangerous for kids, pets, and partners.
Pills
Pills are a common form of hormone replacement therapy. And though convenient, they must be taken at least once per day. If you miss a refill or forget to take your dose, your treatment may be impacted.
Pills also do not offer steady dosing like other forms of HRT. Though designed to withstand the harsh, acidic environment of the gut, pills may not absorb into the bloodstream as evenly or consistently as more direct methods of application.
Pellets
Pellets are hormones compounded into tiny rice-like capsules that are implanted under the skin during a short procedure at your provider’s office.
Pellets are very convenient because you don’t have to remember to take a pill each day, slather on a cream, or properly time an injection.
Much like your natural hormones, pellets provide a steady flow of hormones throughout the treatment cycle, which is between 3 and 6 months depending on your cardiac output, dosing, and gender.
Pellets are often the preferred method of HRT for both patients and providers.
Injections
Injections provide immediate effects, and require administration once every 7 to 10 days. In some cases, your practitioner will administer the injection or you may be provided with a home kit and detailed instructions.
Improper injection practices can have a negative impact. The most common side effects of injections include bruising, pain, and scar tissue at the injection site.
Injections also typically cause “rollercoaster” dosing. The patient may experience intense symptom relief in the period immediately following the injection with dwindling and sometime severe drop off at the end of each treatment cycle.
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