Low testosterone, also known as low T or hypogonadism, is a condition where the body does not produce enough testosterone. Testosterone is the main male sex hormone and is responsible for male characteristics and functions such as muscle mass, strength, bone density, sex drive, energy levels, and more.
Symptoms of Low T
Some common symptoms of low T include:
Causes of Low T
There are several potential causes of low testosterone:
Risk Factors for Low T
Some factors that increase the risk of low T include:
Importance of Testing and Treatment
If you experience any symptoms of low testosterone, it is important to have your levels tested by a medical professional and pursue treatment if clinically low. Ignoring low T symptoms and allowing levels to remain low for a prolonged time can lead to risks such as:
The good news is low testosterone is highly treatable with testosterone replacement therapy (TRT). Continue reading to learn more about TRT treatment with Balanced Hormone Clinic.
What is Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT)?
Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) is medical treatment to raise testosterone levels in males diagnosed with low testosterone. The goal of TRT is to return testosterone levels to a healthy, normal range and alleviate hypogonadal symptoms.
How it Works
There are different methods to deliver supplemental testosterone:
The optimal TRT protocol depends on the patient’s hormone profile, lifestyle, preferences and treatment goals. Balanced Hormone Clinic physicians will determine the ideal treatment method, dose and schedule based on regular lab work and monitoring of symptom improvements.
Benefits of TRT with Balanced Hormone Clinic
Some benefits our patients experience with TRT:
In addition to improving low T symptoms, studies show TRT can provide protection against various chronic illnesses including osteoporosis, Type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, obesity and depression when properly administered under medical supervision.
The first step is determining if you truly have clinically low testosterone levels through accurate testing.
Medical History and Symptoms
Our physicians will conduct a detailed history of your symptoms, medical conditions, medications and lifestyle to assess low T risk factors.
Physical Exam
A physical exam will help identify any physical signs of low T like loss of muscle tone, increased body fat, low energy, change in hair patterns, etc.
Hormone Blood Tests
Blood work will measure total testosterone and free testosterone levels. Additional relevant hormone levels like estradiol may also be tested.
Balanced Hormone Clinic utilizes accurate laboratory testing because incorrect lab results can lead to misdiagnosis of low T. Our network of preferred labs adhere to stringent quality control procedures for precise testosterone level assessments.
Testosterone exists in the bloodstream in two states:
Measuring both total and free testosterone is crucial for correctly diagnosing low T, determining treatment necessity and efficacy, and adjusting dosage.
Follow-Up Testing and Monitoring
Patients starting TRT will have hormone levels monitored periodically to ensure therapy is working optimally without overdosing or underdoing treatment. Follow up blood tests help indicate appropriate testosterone dosage adjustments.
Balanced Hormone Clinic physician-developed TRT programs deliver customized treatment based on the patient's unique health profile to restore testosterone deficiency safely and effectively.
Complete Patient Assessment
Personalized Treatment Plan Creation
Ongoing Patient Support
Convenient Local Care
Balanced Hormone Clinic Cambria office provides TRT locally utilizing telemedicine when appropriate for added convenience.
Compliance and Lifestyle Optimization
In addition to TRT, we offer guidance on supplemental lifestyle measures beneficial for low T treatment results:
Testosterone treatment for low T in men has been linked to increased risk of blood clots. However, a 2021 study found that when the right dose is given, treatment improves bone health and sexual function while prostate risks remain unchanged compared to placebo. Moderation seems key.
Balanced Hormone Clinic offers various FDA-approved options for testosterone replacement to meet individual needs:
How it works: Administered via subcutaneous injection or intramuscularly. Testosterone goes directly into the bloodstream.
Types available:
Dosing/Administration: Once weekly or every 2 weeks. Self-administered by patient at home.
Key benefits: Most affordable form. Steady testosterone release between doses. Easy to adjust dosage.
How they work: Applied daily to skin (shoulders, upper arms or abdomen). Absorbed into bloodstream.
Types available:
Dosing: Daily application. Dosage can be adjusted by changing gel packet strength.
Key benefits: Easy to administer. Flexible - can adjust area or amount applied for changing dosage needs.
How they work: Small implants surgically inserted under the skin. Release consistent testosterone levels for 3-6 months.
Dosing/Administration: New pellets implanted every 3-6 months. Procedure performed in-office. Local anesthetic used.
Key benefits: Steady testosterone levels. No daily or weekly administration needed. Just two implant procedures per year.
Types available: Andriol, testosterone undecanoate capsules
How they work: Metabolized by the liver upon ingestion then released in the bloodstream.
Dosing: Taken a few times per day with food
Key benefits: Oral administration rather than applying gels or injecting.
When administered correctly under medical supervision, testosterone therapy effectively alleviates low T symptoms and provides significant health protections long-term. However, improper use does pose risks.
Benefits of Physician-Managed TRT:
Risks of Improper TRT Administration:
Balanced Hormone Clinic TRT Protocol Safety
To ensure safe, successful treatment, our physicians closely monitor patients:
This level of rigor, expertise and care significantly reduces the risks of TRT therapy.
The Balanced Hormone Clinic Cambria office provides cutting-edge diagnostics and personalized testosterone replacement protocols to effectively treat low T throughout the central coast area.
Why Choose Balanced Hormone Clinic Cambria for TRT
Holistic Health Services
In addition to TRT, we offer complete men’s health, endocrinology and anti-aging services:
State-of-the-Art Cambria Facility
Our welcoming clinic offers advanced testing capabilities and leading-edge therapies including:
For those seeking an optimal quality of life through properly administered testosterone therapy, Balanced Hormone Clinic Cambria provides safe, effective TRT tailored specifically for you.
Men over age 30 exhibiting hypogonadal symptoms plus clinically low blood testosterone levels can benefit from TRT.
Many major insurance plans cover lab testing and TRT when medically necessary. We advise patients on available options.
Most patients notice significant benefits within a couple months like increased energy, libido, strength, endurance, motivation and better moods. Maximum results require 3-6 months.
For age-related decline, TRT will be a lifelong regimen. However, for those with treatable conditions causing deficiency, normal T production may resume after a course of therapy.
No evidence shows properly managed TRT increasing cancer risk. However, we monitor prostate health in our patients - especially those with family history.
Yes - treatment can be discontinued at any time if problematic side effects occur. Our physicians work to minimize adverse reactions through proper out today to explore how Balanced Hormone Clinic Cambria’s premier testosterone replacement therapy can help you reclaim your vitality!