Men seek hormone therapy for a number of enticing reasons. Testosterone replacement therapy often promises to sharpen memory skills, increase muscle mass, improve memory and pump up the libido. Doctors use synthetic testosterone to treat a number of conditions ranging from low bone density to prostate cancer, but you should consider the side effects if using the drug for its anti-aging properties, report doctors at the Mayo Clinic.
Sleep Apnea
Testosterone replacement hormones can increase the symptoms of existing sleep apnea and interrupt sleep patterns. Sleep apnea is a common symptom of male hormone therapy. The hormones can create interrupted sleep patterns, causing drowsiness and sleepiness during the day.
Changing Body Functions
Many men taking testosterone replacement drugs get enlarged breasts. Breasts also become tenderer. At the same time, testosterone replacement drugs can cause the testes to shrink, causing infertility and impotence. A decrease in the sperm count can cause infertility in younger men. After long-term use, the body becomes unable to produce testosterone naturally and permanent infertility ensues.
Skin Reactions
Testosterone replacement injections and patches can cause the skin to become oily and generate acne breakouts, reports the Cleveland Clinic. Prostate tissue becomes stimulated, which can lead to a decreased urinary stream or cause more frequent urination. Some men using the hormone patch can experience irritation at the site and must discontinue its use. Testosterone replacement therapy is available in patches, gels and injections.
Fluid Retention
The drugs can cause fluid retention that causes bloating and puffiness in the face and skin. Fluid retention can lead to swollen ankles and legs and lead to high blood pressure. Fluid retention is particularly evident in the first few months of taking the drugs, according to Dr. Michael Werner. In the worst case, excessive fluid retention can lead to congestive heart failure.
Heart Disease
Red blood cells tend to increase while taking the therapy, leading to an increased risk of developing heart disease. Hemoglobin levels also can increase, leading to strokes, blood clotting and heart attacks.
Prostate Cancer
Testosterone can increase the growth of prostate cancer if men have been previously diagnosed with the condition. Men considering the therapy should undergo tests for prostate cancer prior to treatment, since the disease can remain dormant and without any symptoms for years. Prostate cancer is common among older men and is the second most common cause of cancer death among men over 70.
