Testosterone Therapy and Blood Pressure
For many years, there was a concern that the use of supplemental testosterone would lead to high blood pressure (hypertension) and an increased risk of heart attacks. Today, thanks to abundant research, we know that to be the opposite of what actually occurs.
The good news for people wanting to know about testosterone therapy and blood pressure is that reversing Low T can also help reduce your blood pressure back to a normal range.
Hypertension can cause serious damage to the blood vessels, increasing the risk of strokes and heart attacks. Damage to the body is done long before most people even notice any warning signs. Men who have high blood pressure levels also have 1.8 times increased risk of Low T. High blood pressure is considered 140 over 90 of higher for a sustained time. Stage 2 hypertension starts at 160 over 100 and is cause for concern.
High blood pressure is far from the only issue facing men and women with low testosterone. They have higher risks for:
- Diabetes
- Osteoporosis
- Obesity
- Atherosclerosis
- Dementia
- High cholesterol
- Osteopenia
- Metabolic syndrome
Knowing as much as possible about testosterone replacement therapy and blood pressure is crucial for the maintenance of health and well-being as you age.
An important note about blood pressure is to never accept the results of just one reading if something seems off or abnormally high. Many people are nervous when they visit a doctor, and this can impact blood pressure readings. Also, if you know what your typical blood pressure levels are, and the doctor or nurse tells you on a specific occasion that they are much higher, ask for another reading, and, if necessary, to have someone else double check the results. You can also go to your neighborhood pharmacy to have your blood pressure levels checked, as well.
Effects of Low Testosterone on Blood Pressure
Low testosterone risk is 2.4 times higher for men who are obese and 2.1 times greater for those with diabetes. Obesity and diabetes are both related to a condition called metabolic syndrome.
Metabolic syndrome is a serious health concern that is often associated with low testosterone levels. Adults dealing with metabolic syndrome have a higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes. One of the reasons for examining the connection between testosterone treatment and high blood pressure reversal is that it can also reduce the risks associated with metabolic syndrome, which includes:
- High blood pressure
- High cholesterol and triglycerides
- Abdominal weight gain
- High glucose levels
The biggest concerns over testosterone replacement therapy and high blood pressure problems occur when testosterone levels are too high. This is the reverse of what occurs with Low T. too much testosterone, as when used illegally by athletes or bodybuilders, can also lead to an increase in testosterone levels, which is likely where initial concerns about testosterone therapy and blood pressure came from.
Benefits of Testosterone Therapy for Blood Pressure
Testosterone is important for your body and your blood pressure. One of the functions of testosterone is its conversion into estrogen by the enzyme aromatase. Although too much estrogen conversion is not good for the body, the right amount will help protect the arteries.
When we look at the results of testosterone replacement and high blood pressure readings in adults, we often find that not only do BP levels decline, but the other issues associated with metabolic syndrome also improve. Weight gain is a significant problem because people who are heavier than normal often have higher blood pressure levels. Additionally, their LDL cholesterol and triglyceride levels are also high.
After starting testosterone therapy, and high blood pressure levels are checked, most people start to see a difference around the end of the third month of treatment.
You should discuss any concerns about blood pressure, low testosterone, and hormone levels in general with a qualified and experienced hormone replacement therapy specialist. The experts at Kingsberg Medical offer free, confidential consultations to men and women throughout the US. Local diagnostic testing laboratories and affordable treatment options are available.
Brian Leeber
