Testosterone replacement therapy is used to treat low testosterone levels. This can be caused by a number of different conditions including testicular cancer. Testosterone replacement therapy is a type of hormone replacement. You will be given testosterone in an attempt to keep your hormone levels at the proper amount.
Function
Testosterone is a male hormone that is important for maintaining muscle bulk, good level of red blood cells and bone density. In men, testosterone is produced in the testicles. Low levels of testosterone can be caused by testicular cancer. Treatments like surgery, chemotherapy and radiation can cause your testosterone levels to drop. Surgery may be needed to remove one of both of your testicles. This will cause your testosterone production to stop completely.
Features
Low levels of testosterone can cause side effects. You may experience fatigue or a decrease in muscle mass. Your bones may become fragile and break more easily. You may become anemic due to a decrease in your red levels.
Methods
Testosterone replacement is given three different ways. Injections are given every two to three weeks and have the most intense side effects. You could use patches that are worn on various body parts and changed daily. There is also the option of a gel that you rub onto your shoulder daily.
Side Effects
The patches can cause skin irritation. The gel has a transfer risk if your skin comes into contact with another person before the gel completely soaks in. The injection can cause your hormone levels and blood cell counts to spike then dip. Overall side effects include acne, fluid retention, breast enlargement and a decrease in sperm.
Warning
Testosterone replacement has some risks. This therapy can increase your risk for prostate cancer or cause existing tumors to grow. Discuss your prostate cancer risk with your doctor before beginning testosterone replacement.
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