Monday, March 9, 2015

Signs You Have Low Testosterone

Testosterone deficiency is a very real health condition, and many studies in recent years have found that men who have low T are at a higher risk for osteoporosis, diabetes, cardiovascular disease and more. While most men know the most obvious symptom of low testosterone -- erectile dysfunction or low libido -- there are actually many signs your hormone levels are off. Watch for the following signs that you have low T. 

1. Low Libido

A man's sex drive is fueled in large part by the hormone testosterone. While every man differs in how often he wants to have sex, a man with low T will often become less interested in sex or not think about it often at all. 

2. Erectile Dysfunction

A molecule called nitric oxide (NO) is responsible for triggering erections. Testosterone is necessary to trigger the release of NO, however, and if there is not enough testosterone in a man's blood, not much NO will be released, and this can result in erectile dysfunction. Sometimes erections will be completely impossible, or they may not be firm enough for sex. 

3. Low Ejaculatory Volume

The prostate, testicles and seminal vesicles work together to create sperm-containing fluid that is released upon ejaculation. All three components need a steady supply of testosterone to produce between 1.5 and 5 cubic centimeters of ejaculatory fluid, which is considered normal. Men who have low testosterone may notice a decline in ejaculatory volume. 

4. Chronic Fatigue

While most people get tired at the end of a long day, a man with low T will feel utterly depleted, and complain that he feels more tired than he should. This is one of those low T symptoms that men often just attribute to getting older. 

5. Mood Issues

Low testosterone can also result in a wide range of emotional or mood problems, leading men to feel down, less optimistic or even depressed. It can also cause irritability and other mood problems. This problem is usually more apparent to family members and friends. 

6. Genital Numbness

Men with low T frequently complain of numb genitals, but this is one of the least recognized low testosterone symptoms among men. While the genitals are usually not completely numb, a touch can fail to deliver the spark necessary for pleasurable sex. 

7. Reduced Muscle

While men with low testosterone do not become overly weak, they will notice they are not as strong as they used to be. Some men even have noticeable shrinkage in arm and leg muscles. 

Low testosterone can be identified through simple blood work. If you have any of these symptoms of low T, schedule a consultation with HealthGains today to have your testosterone levels checked and discuss your treatment options.

Sunday, March 8, 2015

How PRP Injections Reduce Wrinkles

It's easy to get overwhelmed by the sheer number of wrinkle treatments on the market today. From creams and laser treatments to surgery, dermal fillers and injections, how can you decide which option is right for you? One of the newer options today is something called PRP therapy.

Platelet Rich Plasma therapy, or PRP, has been used for decades in sports medicine and to help people recover from wounds. Over the last few years, it has gained a reputation in the cosmetic industry for its ability to rejuvenate skin. PRP injections can do what dermal fillers, surgery and other treatments cannot: it not only improves the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, it also improves skin texture and tone. One of the biggest benefits is that PRP is also all natural, as it uses your own blood to treat saggy skin on the face, forehead wrinkles, crow's feet and more.

Understanding Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy

Platelet rich plasma therapy begins by drawing vials of blood from your arm and spinning it in a centrifuge to isolate the platelets. Once these platelets and growth factors are concentrated, they are injected into treatment areas of your face or neck. Platelets are tiny cells that help with clotting. When they come together in the blood, they release enzymes that speed healing and prompt tissue repair, while also drawing stem cells to the damaged area.

PRP can be injected into sun-damaged skin, wrinkled skin or sagging areas to focus your natural healing ability where it is needed to achieve a more youthful appearance.

How PRP Injections are Used

PRP therapy can speed healing, improve fine lines, and improve your skin texture. Unlike many fillers, which are only appropriate for small or large wrinkles, or certain areas of the face, PRP therapy can improve the following:
·         Deep acne scarring
·         Forehead wrinkles
·         Neck lines and wrinkles
·         Bags under the eyes
·         Sagging, loose skin
·         Lip wrinkles
·         Marionette lines
·         Nasolabial folds
·         Crow's feet

PRP Side Effects: What You Should Know

Another benefit of PRP therapy? There are virtually no side effects, aside from redness at the injection site and the potential for mild bruising, both of which are common after any injection. Because this treatment uses your own blood, you do not risk any allergic reaction or rejection.

It's important to realize that PRP therapy, while impressive, will not offer surgical results and it cannot offer a dramatic improvement in very loose skin or very deep wrinkles. Still, this anti-aging treatment can offer big improvement in many skin problems like fine lines and poor skin texture.

When used for cosmetic or anti-aging purposes, you can expect to need up to three injections that are spaced four weeks apart. This will offer the very best results, which may be visible as soon as one to two weeks after your procedure. The final results can take up to three months, as PRP induces your body to use its own healing mechanism. Results usually last around two years.

Are you looking for a safe, effective and all-natural anti-aging solution to help turn back the clock? PRP injections may be the right treatment option for you. Schedule an appointment with Healthgains to discuss the benefits of PRP therapy and learn more about what it can do for you.