I have 'LOW-T' and the V.A. Doctor said too bad. Any advice?

Sgt Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 15 Oct 2015 19:01:11 -0400

This is not about my sex life. I don't have a regular sex life. It's more about good sleep&energy,metabolism,being healthy and the endocrine system(BRAIN). Or is it about money , could the V.A.Doctor be under orders to keep costs down. Is that why she claims that the only treatment she knows off (a-Cream) may cause Cancer. I just don't get it. Please advice brothers!!!.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 15 at 2015 8:24 PM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 15 Oct 2015 20:24:43 -0400

Each provider is a little different with the treatments they feel comfortable with based on their experience and knowledge. I would suggest you look into asking for a change of practitioner. Do your research as 1LT Johnny Martin suggested and go back loaded with some ideas.

Response by Sgt Spencer Sikder made Oct 15 at 2015 9:59 PM

Sgt Spencer Sikder — Thu, 15 Oct 2015 21:59:25 -0400

Happens to if not all, most men after age 40. My civilian provider gave me the cream. The number didn't improve much. When I transferred to VA, my Primary Care doc put me on an injection. Been on them for years. Numbers are mid range. I was able to migrate from having them inject me to my wife injecting me every two weeks. My energy did go up. Some weight loss. As for cancer, what isn't going to give us cancer?

Response by PVT Robert Gresham made Oct 15 at 2015 10:13 PM

PVT Robert Gresham — Thu, 15 Oct 2015 22:13:08 -0400

Sgt Private RallyPoint Member It actually depends on both your provider, and your testosterone level. If your T-level is VERY low, a provider is more likely to prescribe you a testosterone gel, like AndroGel 1.62%.

While I have never heard about such products causing cancer, some possible side effects can be heart attack, stroke and blood clots. With this being the case you may wish to refine your thoughts as to whether or not you really NEED such a medication, or would just like to have it. If you have heart problems, or have ever had blood clots, or a stroke, FORGET IT !!

If you are still determined to raise your testosterone level, then I can only suggest that you: (1). Tell your provider that you are aware of the possible side-effects, and that you are prepared to live (or die) with them. (2). Try another provider at your VA clinic. (3). Try a non-VA doctor. (4). Buy a non-prescription testosterone supplement from GNC, or another reputable online seller.

You take your chances no matter what your decision may be. I wish you the best of luck.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 16 at 2015 1:10 AM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 16 Oct 2015 01:10:53 -0400

If you have it, and you feel your provider isnt taking care of your needs. I'd advisor a PCM change. Also try file complaints against the provider for not providing adequate care.

Through the VA though, a PCM change will probably take about 73-89 years. So bring a snack.

Response by LCDR Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 16 at 2015 10:36 AM

LCDR Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 16 Oct 2015 10:36:10 -0400

Unfortunately I have seen this before both active duty and dependents in addition to VA. This reminds me of a case where a female was in the clinic for birth control renewal and the doctor told her that her current one cost too much so they'd need to try other methods. This would seem reasonable if it was not her 8th birth control method due to fairly serious side effects with the other 7. She eventually got it elevated and didn't have to change, but the doctor admitted she was told to try to reduce costs.

Response by CPT Elizabeth Foster made Oct 17 at 2015 6:28 AM

CPT Elizabeth Foster — Sat, 17 Oct 2015 06:28:09 -0400

Has your doctor ruled out other health issues? Men with certain health problems also tend to have low testosterone. Some of these are:

High blood pressure (about 40 out of 100 also have low testosterone)
High cholesterol (about 40 out of 100 also have low testosterone)
Diabetes (about 50 out of 100 also have low testosterone)
Overweight (about 50 out of 100 also have low testosterone)
HIV (about 30 out of 100 also have low testosterone)
AIDS (about 50 out of 100 also have low testosterone)
Long-term opioid use (almost 75 out of 100 also have low testosterone)

Perhaps if you do have any of those other issues your T could be improved by treating the underlying cause.