Thyroid hormone deficiency
Hello Dr.
Hsu,
I am Hu Ren-Cheng from Taitung.
I just discovered that I can discuss my medical condition with you through Taiwan E-Hospital.
A few days ago, my mother took me to Taitung Provincial Hospital to see a urologist because I anticipate getting married in June or July next year.
The report indicated that I have a severe hormone deficiency and suggested that I receive testosterone injections.
I am currently taking two medications, and I am concerned whether adding testosterone injections will conflict with these medications.
Also, I have heard that testosterone injections can increase the risk of cancer; is this true? Dr.
Hsu, if everything goes well and I get married next year, I really hope you can come to our wedding.
I will call you to confirm the date.
Thank you.
Xiao Zheng, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2009/09/01
Dr. Xu Shanjing reply Rare Disease
Ren Zheng: I apologize for the late response due to my recent busyness.
Previously, I asked you to inject FSH and LH with the aim of inducing the development and maturation of your testes, leading to the production of testosterone and sperm.
Administering additional testosterone may be harmful, as testosterone is typically injected alone and not considered for use during fertility.
If possible, I will definitely attend your wedding to offer my congratulations.
Best wishes to you and your future bride! Xu Shanjing
Reply Date: 2009/09/01
More Info
Hello, Hu Ren-Zheng. Thank you for reaching out regarding your health concerns. It’s great to hear that you are planning for your upcoming wedding, and I appreciate your trust in discussing your medical situation.
From your description, it seems that you have been diagnosed with a significant deficiency in male hormones, which is often referred to as hypogonadism. This condition can lead to various symptoms, including fatigue, decreased libido, and even mood changes. The recommendation to start testosterone therapy is a common approach to address these deficiencies. However, it’s essential to consider several factors before proceeding with treatment.
1. Potential Interactions with Current Medications: You mentioned that you are currently taking two medications. It is crucial to discuss these with your healthcare provider to ensure that there are no potential interactions with testosterone therapy. Some medications can affect hormone levels or how your body metabolizes testosterone, so a thorough review of your current medications is necessary. Your doctor may perform blood tests to monitor hormone levels and adjust dosages accordingly.
2. Concerns About Cancer Risk: There has been ongoing debate about the relationship between testosterone therapy and cancer risk, particularly prostate cancer. While some studies suggest a potential link, others indicate that testosterone therapy does not significantly increase the risk of prostate cancer in men who are monitored appropriately. It is essential to have regular check-ups, including prostate-specific antigen (PSA) tests, to monitor your prostate health while on testosterone therapy. Discussing these concerns with your healthcare provider can help you make an informed decision about starting treatment.
3. Monitoring and Follow-Up: If you decide to proceed with testosterone injections, regular follow-up appointments are crucial. Your doctor will likely want to monitor your hormone levels, evaluate any side effects, and assess your overall health. This monitoring can help ensure that the therapy is effective and safe for you.
4. Lifestyle Considerations: In addition to hormone therapy, lifestyle changes can also play a significant role in managing hormone levels. Regular exercise, a balanced diet, adequate sleep, and stress management can all contribute to hormonal balance. Engaging in strength training and cardiovascular exercises can help improve your overall health and may positively impact your hormone levels.
5. Planning for the Future: Since you are planning to get married next year, it’s essential to consider how your health and hormone levels may affect your relationship and family planning. If you are considering starting a family, discussing fertility options with your healthcare provider is advisable, as testosterone therapy can impact sperm production.
In summary, while testosterone therapy can be beneficial for addressing hormone deficiencies, it is essential to approach it with caution and under the guidance of a healthcare professional. Regular monitoring and open communication with your doctor will help ensure that you receive the best possible care. Congratulations on your upcoming wedding, and I wish you all the best in your health journey! If you have any further questions or concerns, please feel free to reach out.
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