Low testosterone (low T) is one of the most common health complications affecting middle-aged and older men. According to the American Urological Association, researchers predict 2 in every 100 adult men have low T. The risk of developing low T increases with age.
Current misconceptions and stigmas about low T stop many men from booking an appointment with a certified medical professional and thus don’t get the treatment they need. At Renew Vitality, it’s our mission to combat the stigma associated with hormonal deficiencies and help men across the country.
Why does Testosterone Decline?
T production fluctuates considerably throughout a lifetime. Healthy males in their teens, usually experience a spike to support growth and sexual development. During their late teens and early twenties, men can have levels upwards of 1,000 ng/dL.
It takes proper functioning testes, adrenal glands, and hypothalamus to produce enough testosterone. Aging makes these key members of the T production process less receptive, causing a steady decline normally starting in the late twenties or early thirties. By the time men turn 50, it’s common for them to only have half of the bioavailable testosterone they did at 20.
Lifestyle choices can either increase, support, or deplete T levels even more. According to a study published in the NY Times, a sedentary lifestyle combined with a poor diet and a pattern of high BMI for years drastically impacts hormone levels. Over time, body tissues will reabsorb free testosterone and convert it to estrogen.
Overweight and obese men tend to develop compounding medical issues. In one study following 2,100 adult men 45 years and older, obese participants were at a 2.4 times higher risk of developing low T, 2.1 times more likely to be diabetic, and 1.8 times more likely to have abnormally high blood pressure.
Extra weight, especially in the midsection, is caused by an overabundance of fat cells. Fat cells metabolize testosterone and convert it into estrogen, thus lowering T levels even more.
How does Testosterone Replacement Therapy Work?
The first step is contacting a certified medical professional who specializes in hormone imbalances. At Renew Vitality, we have our clients take a blood test 48 hours before their first consultation. Hormone levels tend to be higher in the morning and decline throughout the day, so it’s best to test early-morning hormone levels, especially for clients between 30 and 45 years of age.
Because there are so many fluctuations in hormone levels, physicians will often suggest regular testing two or more times before and during treatment for an accurate reading.
If the levels are below 300 ng/dL, then the next step is choosing the ideal method for administering the treatment.
Men can choose from gels, patches, pills, or injections. While each method has its benefits, at Renew Vitality, we prefer injections. Recent studies reveal that injections are safer and more effective than topical options like gels and patches. Even though topical TRT is effective, there is also a greater risk of cross-contamination and accidentally transferring the treatment to others.
Every client is unique, but typically we suggest administering the medication in cycles to not disturb natural hormone production. Clients tend to notice results within 2-5 weeks after the start of TRT.
The treatment works by supplying the body with bioidentical synthetic testosterone to bolster current T levels. Since the medication is bioidentical, it has the ability to bind to the same androgen receptors as natural testosterone to restore balance.
TRT is often the first choice for men who have been recently diagnosed with low T and are experiencing uncomfortable symptoms like weight gain, low libido, fatigue, or moodiness because it can relieve both the psychological and physical signs of low T.
Get Solid Testosterone Replacement Therapy in Arlington, VA
Arlington is home to over 200,000 residents and has won several awards including, the Most Educated Cities Award, Best Place to Retire, and the Best City to Live in America. There are several popular tourist attractions like the Pentagon and Arlington National Cemetery to visit.
Almost 75% of the jobs in the county are in the government and services sector, which is around 220,000 jobs. Its proximity to Washington, D.C makes it a magnet for high tech companies, major associations, and Fortune 500 companies.
While there are currently 38 testosterone replacement therapy clinics in Arlington, Renew Vitality is, by far, the first choice for Virginia residents.
Maintain Your Vigor with Renew Vitality
Our highly trained team of wellness professionals specializes in providing excellent personalized care. Our goal is to help men reach the peak of health and vitality by offering a series of holistic wellness programs. While some TRT clinics only offer medication, our staff works with our clients to identify the root cause of their medical issues and provide a comprehensive diet and exercise program in addition to TRT for incredible results.