Testosterone Replacement Question for all...and jmjm, copyman, StGeorge, R. Glass,

[DoubleDose]

In the past members noted above have discussed the potential for Testosterone Replacement Therapy for their low testosterone  after doing tx.  I just got test results back showing I am at the borderline of low normal, and low....about 300 ng/dl.   After doing a LOT of reading about T ranges, and replacement, symptoms from low 'T', etc. I am beginning to think this may be a major part of my post-tx problems.  The sx for low Testosterone are plentiful, and can be overwhelming.  

My question is this:  has anyone yet addressed these low testosterone issues, using TRT, and how did it work.  Did it relieve symptoms, reverse sexual problems, provide renewed energy and interest, increase libido???  I had read that one person on the forum used the gel, and after months with good results developed high blood pressure.  That would be a concern for many of us that have developed metabolic syndrome after tx.  

I am going to see a very good endocrinologist that worked with my Thyroid issues, and got that under control.  I always wondered why that Thyroid adjustment did not alleviate my symptoms..at all!!  Well maybe the glandular damage goes a lot farther than just thyroid problems.  Pituitary, Adrenals, Gonadal, etc. , it all points back to the symptoms, and the low 'T' results.  Getting on the Testosterone therapy has many cautions and seems a bit intimidating...both from a side effects standpoint, and from a long term, life long need perspective.

Any experiences out there with this issue post-tx?   Hey Jim, are you still around eyeballing this place from time to time?  Copyman??  any others that have had direct experience with the low T???  

[1oftheclub222]

I had a girlfriend who did T  therapy for something I forget now, it was long time ago, but I remember she grew hair on her upper lip and became a bit aggressive...not good for women maybe, ha...

[DoubleDose]

The concern with Testosterone patches, gels, and shots is that one may ultimately be forced to remain on T replacement therapy for life, as their own self generated production of Testosterone may shut down, due to the external source of T.  Also I have read accounts of high blood pressure from T therapy, and potential for other long term side effects.  I am most interested in finding out if it is truly 'low' and needed in my case, and if so, will it safely help reverse many of my sx, both sexual and energy, mood, etc.

I am going to take it carefully and slowly, but if I show a real need for Testosterone, I may likely take the risk and see how I like the effects.


DoubleDose

[James10500]

I just went to the fertility doc, to have him test me post tx.  The result was "really good" whatever that means.  This was via a phone call, I sure I will get into more detail when we meet with the doc to plan the next steps.  I know you are supposed to wait six months,but I wanted to give it more time, so I waited a year post tx.  

The first time I had it tested pre-tx (we wanted a base line to compare post -tx) my T level was on the higher end.  I'm sure the nurse would have told me my T level was low, if it was an issue.  But again I'll know for sure when we meet with the doc.

What about using testosterone patches, I know that's what cyclists use to recover from intense efforts,

[DoubleDose]

Thanks for the update.  I will let you know what I end up finding out...and what course I take.  Like you..I just hope I end up too busy to spend this much time on the forum.  I need to make up for lost time!

[copyman]

Thanks a lot for airing my "manhood" on the forum :-)

Seriously I never did go through with the testosterone replacement therapy. Like you I was scared what I read about the side effects.

I have decided to give it a try my next doctors visit in a few months.

I will keep you posted. Please do the same.

If by some chance you don't hear back from me it means the replacement therapy is working and I'm busy doing you know what :-)