Testosterone: it’s the hormone you need for energy, focus, muscle mass, strong bones, and even a steady libido. But unfortunately, it’s also the subject of more than a few misconceptions and myths.
We’re going to separate fact from fiction, breaking down some of the most common low testosterone (low-T) myths out there – and we’re focusing on the ones that are keeping men from getting a low-T diagnosis and treatment.
Common Low Testosterone Myths Busted by Low-T Experts
Even though low-T affects upwards of 5 million men in the U.S. alone, the average guy really doesn’t know much about the condition. There are a lot of low-T misconceptions, from assuming that a testosterone deficiency is a normal part of aging (false) to thinking of testosterone replacement as a virtual fountain of youth (actually, not too far from the truth!).
At Focal Point Vitality, we’re on a mission to make it easier for men to live their best lives, no matter their age. So today, we’re debunking myths about low testosterone and giving you the accurate information you need.
Myth: Only older men have low-T levels.
Fact: Low testosterone can affect men of any age.
In simplest terms, low testosterone is a medical condition that occurs when a man’s body doesn’t produce enough testosterone. Read that again – nowhere does it say that low-T is an experience reserved for older men.
It’s true that low testosterone affects an estimated 45% of men over the age of 45, largely because testosterone production starts to slow down sometime around age 30. But there are other causes of low-T that can also be a factor, including a high body weight/obesity, certain medications, illness, a past injury to the groin, and even drinking alcohol.
Myth: Testosterone replacement increases the risk of heart problems.
Fact: Recent studies show no connection between testosterone therapy and heart risks.
One of the biggest reasons some men are hesitant about TRT is a misguided belief that there’s a link between TRT and heart problems. This myth got its start when a few early studies suggested that there could be some kind of connection… but researchers have said that the evidence was definitely not clear.
Now, studies have found that there’s no increased risk for heart problems for men undergoing TRT. And taking our myth debunking efforts one step further, there has actually been research showing that TRT is associated with a lower risk of heart-related deaths in men.
If you already have a high risk of heart issues, it’s important to make managing that condition a priority – and make sure you talk to your doctor before beginning TRT, because it’s always a good idea to be informed.
Myth: Men should only be treated with testosterone if their measured levels are dramatically low.
Fact: TRT can support a better quality of life for men with low-T, even those with relatively mild deficiencies.
One of the biggest problems with this myth (aside from it being completely false) is that it’s based on the idea that there’s a crystal-clear number for the “perfect” amount of testosterone. But when you ask medical professionals and hormone experts, you’ll quickly learn that defining healthy testosterone levels isn’t quite as simple as it seems. There’s some gray area in terms of an ideal range for testosterone levels, so what one person defines as “normal” could qualify as “low” on another provider’s scale.
Here’s the key takeaway: if you’re experiencing symptoms of low-T, start by getting your testosterone levels tested. Make sure you go to a provider that uses your testosterone levels as just one piece of the puzzle, also taking into account your health history, current issues, and other factors. An experienced low-T expert can help you decide if TRT is the best option for you, based on the big picture of your health and wellness – not just your measured levels.
Myth: Testosterone supplementation causes or contributes to prostate cancer.
Fact: There is zero evidence that shows TRT can cause prostate cancer.
If you’re worried that TRT can contribute to prostate cancer, we can understand why you would feel pretty uncertain about treating your low-T. Luckily, we have great news for you: there is no research that suggests that testosterone therapy is a factor in prostate cancer (and there never has been).
It’s actually the opposite – some scientists are looking into the possibility of high-level testosterone replacement therapies as a way to slow down advanced forms of prostate cancer. Talk about a surprise twist to the TRT story!
Myth: The primary symptom of low testosterone is erectile dysfunction or low libido.
Fact: Low testosterone causes a wide variety of symptoms, including physical and mental effects.
Low-T has a tough reputation as a major culprit behind erectile dysfunction (ED) and a sex drive that’s gone MIA. This myth has a small kernel of truth in it because problems with sex drive and sexual performance can be traced back to low testosterone levels. However, there are so many other low-T signs you should be aware of.
So, what does low testosterone cause? Well, the list is pretty long and surprisingly diverse:
- Lack of energy
- Mood swings
- Irritability, anxiety, depression
- Weight gain
- More fat, especially around your gut
- Less muscle
- Problems with focus, motivation, and thinking clearly
- Thinning hair
- Sleep issues
If we had to sum up the symptoms of low-T in a single sentence, it’s this: Low testosterone levels can make you feel slow, old, and miserable.
Not exactly something you want to live with forever, right?
Myth: It’s expensive to get low-T treatments.
Fact: TRT is more affordable than you might think.
Budget is a major reason holding many men back from TRT, but it doesn’t have to be. On average, most people report spending about $30 to $50 per month for testosterone treatment – less than some people spend on their daily coffee habit! When you do the math, it’s definitely worth it to invest in your quality of life.
Myth: Hormone replacement therapy is a cure for low-T.
Fact: Testosterone therapy is a treatment for low-T, but there is no cure.
Unfortunately, there’s no cure for low testosterone. Instead, TRT is a treatment to restore your T-levels and maintain a healthier hormonal balance. Once you get results, you can’t just quit TRT – consistent treatment is the only way to maintain your progress.
This makes it tricky to answer questions like “How long does testosterone take to work?” and “How long does the testosterone shot last?” Technically, testosterone treatments start “working” right away, though it may take some time to reach your optimal T-levels. And TRT “lasts” forever, but you’ll need to keep up with consistent treatments to make that happen.
Get the Truth About How TRT Can Benefit You
When it comes to your options for the best testosterone replacement treatment, go to a source you can trust: the low-T specialists at Focal Point Vitality.
Our experienced team uses the latest in TRT science to support our guests in reaching their goals, whether they’re aiming for more energy, weight loss, increased sex drive – or all of the above! With safe, effective testosterone therapy options, you can get back to living a life you actually enjoy. And because we’ll customize a TRT to fit your unique needs, you can make faster, more sustainable progress towards the best version of yourself.
Focal Point Vitality is a team of Scottsdale low-T treatment providers, but you don’t have to be located in Arizona to get our help. We’ve built partnerships with testing locations across the United States, so you can start our advanced testosterone treatments in Phoenix and so many other cities.
Don’t waste another moment on TRT myths. Instead, put your health and wellness in the hands of professionals. Contact Focal Point Vitality and schedule your TRT consultation today!
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