Low testosterone
Discussion
xx99xx said:
272BHP said:
That is very odd advice from your endo. Manufacturers advice for all the gels I have seen state that blood tests should be done before that days application.
Admittedly it is not worth doing a blood test if a day is missed. At least a week of consistent application is required to reach stable levels.
I can see the logic behind testing after applying the gel as you get to see how much you're absorbing and you can alter the dose accordingly.Admittedly it is not worth doing a blood test if a day is missed. At least a week of consistent application is required to reach stable levels.
When you consider that the T from the gel only stays in your body for barely a day (hence daily application) any blood test done before gel application is just looking at natural T level. I'm not sure how useful that is as natural T is suppressed after a period of TRT.
I've never had my estrogen checked so maybe that is countering my gel as I don't really think my gel is working any more. Usual symptoms are frequent.
Boosted LS1 said:
I had similar (without the hair loss) and it was diagnosed as sarcoidosis, I have hypercalcemia and had hypercalciuria which had me peeing a lot during the night. Hope you get sorted OP.
Thanks. Was that a correct diagnosis?Update day! MRI this morning, and consultant phone call this afternoon.
I don't have any mobile reception at home, so I made sure to call the department to ensure they called my landline, not my mobile.
Anyone care to guess what's happened?
I've just deleted the rant that followed, because the doctor did just call me back on the landline, after switchboard told me "computer sez no".
Doctor was helpful and informative, said the pituitary looked slightly small if anything, certainly not inflamed. Not sure what damage they were expecting to see, or what size a damaged gland is, but there we are.
We ran through gel vs injection, I've gone for injection on a 3-week interval to start with and see if it's for me. After 4 months we check bloods and see where we are. Possibly adjust dose, possibly move to 12-week injections (from what's been said on here, with the injection lasting 10 weeks, I'm not that keen but let's cross that bridge later). The idea behind 3 week intervals to start with is if there's any adverse reaction or side effects, they're not with me for 3 months but 3 weeks. Seems fair enough.
Dunno if that's the best route. Dunno if I'll be too chuffed should the initial dosage be too low and I've got 4 months til it's checked and adjusted. Don't know how much of my low-T symptoms are actually due to head injury.
But at least as of next week I will start finding out.
Edited by FNG on Wednesday 15th September 15:19
3 week injections will no doubt be Sustanon. So you might get a week at a high blood level, one week at what would be your normal level and then one week low where you might feel, let's just say lacklustre. Not at first as there is a period of about 6-8 weeks where the exogenous test is added to your natural level.
Sustanon works best for most people injected at least weekly. The peaks and troughs of a 3 weekly regime is not really sustainable particularly if they will not let you inject yourself - but your mileage with this may vary. NHS protocols like to get you at about 8-15 nmol at your trough level. You might get lucky and feel great at that level but I don't know many guys who go private who drop below 20 nmol and there are many who like to be over 30 nmol.
But it is all about balance. Once you start on TRT then E2 levels, SHBG, prolactin, red blood cell count etc etc will all come into play if you want a good outcome and one that is sustainable for life.
Good luck.
Sustanon works best for most people injected at least weekly. The peaks and troughs of a 3 weekly regime is not really sustainable particularly if they will not let you inject yourself - but your mileage with this may vary. NHS protocols like to get you at about 8-15 nmol at your trough level. You might get lucky and feel great at that level but I don't know many guys who go private who drop below 20 nmol and there are many who like to be over 30 nmol.
But it is all about balance. Once you start on TRT then E2 levels, SHBG, prolactin, red blood cell count etc etc will all come into play if you want a good outcome and one that is sustainable for life.
Good luck.
I was prescribed TestoGel (or the equivalent) a few months back, but nerves took over due to the commitment of it being a life long therapy - and not 100% that it will even be the root cause of my issues as my levels were borderline (despite symptoms being dire)
I’ve started taking Ashwangandha (which helps boost T), protein shakes, Boron (known for reducing SHBG which should increase Free T) and Vitamin D. Whilst no silver bullet, i’ve definitely seen some improvement with the Boron over the last couple of months. I’ll persevere throughout winter when symptoms typically worsen, but if there’s a way of increasing it naturally i’m all for it. Obviously marginal gains are more apparent when cases are borderline - like mine.
Boron is very cheap BTW, unlike Ashwagandha!
I’ve started taking Ashwangandha (which helps boost T), protein shakes, Boron (known for reducing SHBG which should increase Free T) and Vitamin D. Whilst no silver bullet, i’ve definitely seen some improvement with the Boron over the last couple of months. I’ll persevere throughout winter when symptoms typically worsen, but if there’s a way of increasing it naturally i’m all for it. Obviously marginal gains are more apparent when cases are borderline - like mine.
Boron is very cheap BTW, unlike Ashwagandha!
FNG said:
Boosted LS1 said:
I had similar (without the hair loss) and it was diagnosed as sarcoidosis, I have hypercalcemia and had hypercalciuria which had me peeing a lot during the night. Hope you get sorted OP.
Thanks. Was that a correct diagnosis?Edited by FNG on Wednesday 15th September 15:19
Sim75 said:
I was prescribed TestoGel (or the equivalent) a few months back, but nerves took over due to the commitment of it being a life long therapy - and not 100% that it will even be the root cause of my issues as my levels were borderline (despite symptoms being dire)
I’ve started taking Ashwangandha (which helps boost T), protein shakes, Boron (known for reducing SHBG which should increase Free T) and Vitamin D. Whilst no silver bullet, i’ve definitely seen some improvement with the Boron over the last couple of months. I’ll persevere throughout winter when symptoms typically worsen, but if there’s a way of increasing it naturally i’m all for it. Obviously marginal gains are more apparent when cases are borderline - like mine.
Boron is very cheap BTW, unlike Ashwagandha!
I was similar to you years ago, nervous about starting on gel so I decided against it. Although the endo retracted the offer anyway. I’ve started taking Ashwangandha (which helps boost T), protein shakes, Boron (known for reducing SHBG which should increase Free T) and Vitamin D. Whilst no silver bullet, i’ve definitely seen some improvement with the Boron over the last couple of months. I’ll persevere throughout winter when symptoms typically worsen, but if there’s a way of increasing it naturally i’m all for it. Obviously marginal gains are more apparent when cases are borderline - like mine.
Boron is very cheap BTW, unlike Ashwagandha!
I've tried every single natural supplement known to man over a period of about 15 years (including ashwaganda). Usually running each supplement for about 6 months to make sure you feel the benefits. Nothing really had any effect apart from pregnenolone, but it gave me chronic acne.
I think if you have a physiological problem no natural substance will make a noticeable difference.
FNG said:
First injection two hours ago.
No mania or green spots yet.
Nothing much else either to be fair.
How long til I might notice any benefit?
I was told a month. No mania or green spots yet.
Nothing much else either to be fair.
How long til I might notice any benefit?
Anything prior to that is the Placebo effect.
I inject at night - just because it’s easier in terms of time for me. I never asked - I keep meaning to.
FNG said:
I wish I'd been told anything, anything at all...!!
A month?! And to think I'd been looking forward to getting treatment started. Looks like I should have been looking beyond the next injection
I think it’s very dependent on you - there are lots of variables. I’m not sure who your provider is but get in touch with them. A month?! And to think I'd been looking forward to getting treatment started. Looks like I should have been looking beyond the next injection
Great to come across this thread.
I have been concerned about my T levels for a while now but also my wider hormone levels given I had a bout of gyno in 2016 which I was lucky to get removed on the NHS.
My most recent results showed serum test (RAI) at 12.9 nmol/L which I understand to be low despite being told by my GP it is perfectly normal. I have requested from my GP the results of all the bloods I have had results for since 2015 so I can see if it is up and down or failry static. The last time I had bloods it was 12.1.
Where I am at now is tempted to have a consultation with Dr Savage from the Leger Clinic but like a few people have said, I am a bit reluctant to start treatment that ideally needs to continue for the rest of my life.
I have been concerned about my T levels for a while now but also my wider hormone levels given I had a bout of gyno in 2016 which I was lucky to get removed on the NHS.
My most recent results showed serum test (RAI) at 12.9 nmol/L which I understand to be low despite being told by my GP it is perfectly normal. I have requested from my GP the results of all the bloods I have had results for since 2015 so I can see if it is up and down or failry static. The last time I had bloods it was 12.1.
Where I am at now is tempted to have a consultation with Dr Savage from the Leger Clinic but like a few people have said, I am a bit reluctant to start treatment that ideally needs to continue for the rest of my life.
simonwhite2000 said:
Great to come across this thread.
I have been concerned about my T levels for a while now but also my wider hormone levels given I had a bout of gyno in 2016 which I was lucky to get removed on the NHS.
My most recent results showed serum test (RAI) at 12.9 nmol/L which I understand to be low despite being told by my GP it is perfectly normal. I have requested from my GP the results of all the bloods I have had results for since 2015 so I can see if it is up and down or failry static. The last time I had bloods it was 12.1.
Where I am at now is tempted to have a consultation with Dr Savage from the Leger Clinic but like a few people have said, I am a bit reluctant to start treatment that ideally needs to continue for the rest of my life.
NHS are purely numbers driven. You need to highlight your symptoms as well. I had a couple of results either side of normal, but because of symptoms was referred.I have been concerned about my T levels for a while now but also my wider hormone levels given I had a bout of gyno in 2016 which I was lucky to get removed on the NHS.
My most recent results showed serum test (RAI) at 12.9 nmol/L which I understand to be low despite being told by my GP it is perfectly normal. I have requested from my GP the results of all the bloods I have had results for since 2015 so I can see if it is up and down or failry static. The last time I had bloods it was 12.1.
Where I am at now is tempted to have a consultation with Dr Savage from the Leger Clinic but like a few people have said, I am a bit reluctant to start treatment that ideally needs to continue for the rest of my life.
As for the something you do forever. I've not found it troublesome at all, and have been on it for years. I have the gel, it's just part of the normal daily routine. After shower, deodoarant, spritz of cologne and T gel. Soon becomes habit
Just bumping this one back up.
After feeling a little rough the past few months I took the plunge and got the Optimale sample sorted today. Will hear back hopefully next week to see what the scores are.
However, last week I found myself working close by to a Randox walk-in clinic near Finsbury circus. I took the plunge for a basic testosterone check abs received the results yesterday.
Testosterone - 13.10 nmol/l
SHBG - 27.80 nmol/l
Free Androgen Index - 47.1
So I have a base and one week difference between the two samples. They were taken fasted for 18hrs and no caffeine!.
Let’s see where it goes.
After feeling a little rough the past few months I took the plunge and got the Optimale sample sorted today. Will hear back hopefully next week to see what the scores are.
However, last week I found myself working close by to a Randox walk-in clinic near Finsbury circus. I took the plunge for a basic testosterone check abs received the results yesterday.
Testosterone - 13.10 nmol/l
SHBG - 27.80 nmol/l
Free Androgen Index - 47.1
So I have a base and one week difference between the two samples. They were taken fasted for 18hrs and no caffeine!.
Let’s see where it goes.
I tested my testosterone with a Medichecks finger prick type test a fortnight ago, my results are extremely low.
3.82nml/L
I called three different clinics, which has confused the hell out of me, there is quite a difference in the pricing and, types of blood tests and the type of testosterone that they proscribe.
I called the doctors, expecting for them to not take us seriously but the doctor did and I’m booked in for blood test on the 21st April to rule out of find out why it’s so low and take it from there.
If I was to go private I’d possible go with Balance My Hormones, they prescribe either a cream that to apply to your testicals daily or daily injections.
I’m 42 and relatively fit.
3.82nml/L
I called three different clinics, which has confused the hell out of me, there is quite a difference in the pricing and, types of blood tests and the type of testosterone that they proscribe.
I called the doctors, expecting for them to not take us seriously but the doctor did and I’m booked in for blood test on the 21st April to rule out of find out why it’s so low and take it from there.
If I was to go private I’d possible go with Balance My Hormones, they prescribe either a cream that to apply to your testicals daily or daily injections.
I’m 42 and relatively fit.
PArbor1 said:
If I was to go private I’d possible go with Balance My Hormones, they prescribe either a cream that to apply to your testicals daily or daily injections.
I would reconsider that decision if I was you. I know a few guys who started with that company and all of them are now with others. But firstly, and most importantly, do you have any symptoms?
With a level as low as that you really need a venous draw and a proper panel to see what is going on.
I’m 8 months in - finally settled on a good dose that works for me.
Had some initial issues with increased Estrogen but after a series of bloods taken over a couple of months, we worked it out and I’m now settled.
I was wary if what would happen initially but it has certainly changed aspects of my life for the better.
Currently on cypionate (US) but am thinking about going back to the Mexican? Version that comes in multi-vials as I would rather have a lot of injections prepped and ready to go rather than having to wait while I draw down each time.
Also on HCG - but that’s very easy to use.
Had some initial issues with increased Estrogen but after a series of bloods taken over a couple of months, we worked it out and I’m now settled.
I was wary if what would happen initially but it has certainly changed aspects of my life for the better.
Currently on cypionate (US) but am thinking about going back to the Mexican? Version that comes in multi-vials as I would rather have a lot of injections prepped and ready to go rather than having to wait while I draw down each time.
Also on HCG - but that’s very easy to use.
I’m having full bloods taken at the doctors on Thursday 21st 0830 in the morning. My doctor want all sorts checked, thyroid, calcium etc.
Symptoms.
All I use my penis for is to urinate from, I’m unable to get/maintain an erection, I wouldn’t even get a twitch if I went into a lap dancing club!
Tired all the time, no motivation, depression, I struggle to recall simple words that I would use in a sentence etc.
If I do anything strenuous like walk the dogs, or go out for the evening, I’m exhausted. My partner or friends seem to not be effected by what we’ve just done and in sat there knackered.
I have spoken to the Wellman Clinic in Harley Street, the practice manager sounded professional and knowledgeable, but there bloody expensive!
The Mens Health Clinic in Poole sent me a lot of info and prices and BMH booked me in to speak to one of there advisers.
I will contact the one that has been recommended fed earlier on in this thread.
Symptoms.
All I use my penis for is to urinate from, I’m unable to get/maintain an erection, I wouldn’t even get a twitch if I went into a lap dancing club!
Tired all the time, no motivation, depression, I struggle to recall simple words that I would use in a sentence etc.
If I do anything strenuous like walk the dogs, or go out for the evening, I’m exhausted. My partner or friends seem to not be effected by what we’ve just done and in sat there knackered.
I have spoken to the Wellman Clinic in Harley Street, the practice manager sounded professional and knowledgeable, but there bloody expensive!
The Mens Health Clinic in Poole sent me a lot of info and prices and BMH booked me in to speak to one of there advisers.
I will contact the one that has been recommended fed earlier on in this thread.
pidsy said:
I’m 8 months in - finally settled on a good dose that works for me.
Had some initial issues with increased Estrogen but after a series of bloods taken over a couple of months, we worked it out and I’m now settled.
I was wary if what would happen initially but it has certainly changed aspects of my life for the better.
Currently on cypionate (US) but am thinking about going back to the Mexican? Version that comes in multi-vials as I would rather have a lot of injections prepped and ready to go rather than having to wait while I draw down each time.
Also on HCG - but that’s very easy to use.
Which company did you go with in the end?Had some initial issues with increased Estrogen but after a series of bloods taken over a couple of months, we worked it out and I’m now settled.
I was wary if what would happen initially but it has certainly changed aspects of my life for the better.
Currently on cypionate (US) but am thinking about going back to the Mexican? Version that comes in multi-vials as I would rather have a lot of injections prepped and ready to go rather than having to wait while I draw down each time.
Also on HCG - but that’s very easy to use.
Gassing Station | Health Matters | Top of Page | What's New | My Stuff