The recently published guide is geared towards men who are considering testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) but are concerned about medical contraindications, particularly sleep apnoea. While the guide covers how TRT may worsen sleep apnoea and cause related health complications, it also explores scenarios where men may still receive treatment safely.
For more information, please visit https://trtaustralia.com/does-trt-make-sleep-apnoea-worse-side-effects-explained/
TRT is often prescribed to men who suffer from testosterone deficiencies, which can result in persistent fatigue in spite of rest, low moods, weight gain, loss of lean muscle and bone mass, and other symptoms that can significantly reduce quality of life. Health experts say that patients whose symptoms are caused by low T often experience improved energy levels, increased strength and muscle mass, and enhanced cognitive function; the treatment may also lower the risk of developing anaemia and osteoporosis in cases of severe deficiencies.
Although TRT is considered safe for most men, medical professionals note that individuals with untreated obstructive sleep apnoea should avoid the treatment. As TRT Australia’s guide explains, testosterone can inhibit the brain’s respiratory control system, making individuals less responsive to low oxygen levels (hypoxia) and higher carbon dioxide levels (hypercapnia) that would normally stimulate deeper and more frequent breathing. This is especially problematic during sleep, when breath control is reliant on automatic responses – resulting in longer pauses between breaths.
Additionally, TRT Australia’s guide says that testosterone may alter fat distribution around the throat, narrowing the airways and increasing the chances of collapse; it may also decrease pharyngeal muscle tone, which can create breathing obstructions during sleep..
The combination of TRT and untreated sleep apnoea can result in an increased risk of polycythaemia (dangerous thickening of the blood) and cardiovascular issues; as a result, TRT is not recommended for men with a history of heart disease. However, TRT Australia says that those who are actively treating sleep apnoea with CPAP or other effective therapies and undergo frequent sleep reviews and blood tests can still receive treatment safely. The clinic notes that patients who fall under this category must be monitored closely and may have to pause TRT if their sleep apnoea worsens.
Interested parties can learn more by visiting https://trtaustralia.com/
TRT Australia
7–11 The Avenue
Hurstville
NSW
2220
Australia
