The Hidden Link Between Low Testosterone and Men's Heart Health

Testosterone has been a buzzy topic lately. Whether you heard about it on the news, from your doctor, or on TikTok, the odds are high that it’s crossed into your sphere.

This isn’t just meaningless hype. Testosterone plays a key role in the way a man looks and feels. And an increasing body of evidence shows that it’s important for male heart health, too. 

That’s why our providers offer testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) from our Louisiana Heart and Vascular Institute offices in Covington, Franklinton, and Hammond, Louisiana. 

As experts in hormone therapy, we can evaluate your testosterone levels to help you decide whether TRT is right for you.

What you should know about testosterone and heart health

In 2010, researchers at Harvard pointed out that many medical experts thought there might be a link between testosterone and the heart, but no definitive link had yet been found.

Fast forward to today, and we know a lot more. Researchers have learned, for example, that erectile dysfunction can often be traced back to poor circulation. We also now know that:

• Testosterone can help slow plaque buildup in your arteries (atherosclerosis)
• It also helps lower your cholesterol levels, further reducing your atherosclerosis risk
• Men with congestive heart failure who also have low testosterone fare worse
• Men over age 70 with higher testosterone levels have a lower risk of heart disease 

You probably already know that your risk of heart issues goes up with age. You might also know that men are more likely to experience heart problems earlier than women. Testosterone is a key piece of the puzzle here.

As you get older, your testosterone levels naturally decline. Hormone therapy can help you offset that decline. That isn’t to say that TRT is a cure-all for heart issues. But if you would generally benefit from hormone therapy, your heart may also get extra support. 

Signs you might need more testosterone

So, how do you know if you should seek out hormone therapy? Signs you might have a testosterone deficiency include:

• Loss of muscle mass
• Persistent fatigue
• Mood changes
• Erectile dysfunction
• Lower libido
• More body fat

If that sounds familiar, see our team. We talk with you about your symptoms. We then pair that conversation with blood work to see where your body might need extra support. If you have low testosterone, we work with you to find the right form and dose of TRT for you. 

We take a whole-body, full-spectrum approach to supporting your heart and overall wellness. That means that in addition to or in place of testosterone therapy, we may recommend lifestyle changes, dietary supplements, and stress management techniques. 

Don’t ignore the signs of low testosterone. You might put your heart at risk by doing so. Instead, call Louisiana Heart and Vascular Institute or schedule an appointment online today.