I’m 33 and have been lifting for just about two years after a lifetime of being sedentary. I started out at around 285 pounds at 5’9 and am currently at 235.
About half a year into lifting I noticed I felt sluggish all the time. I was told to get my testosterone levels checked and sure enough they were low (less than 220 ng/dl, tested three separate times with similar results). I did some research and did find that I matched most of the symptoms for hypogonadism. After discussing this with my doctor she wasn’t convinced. She told me I was “watching too much TV” and refused to prescribe TRT. I ended up finding a men’s wellness clinic and of course that particular doctor told me I was an ideal candidate. A couple days later (and a chunk of my money now gone) I was on TRT. After two months I still felt the same constant lethargy, as if I was behind a wall of fog at all times. However, around three months in I suddenly felt significantly better. Depression issues I had my entire life were diminished, I had some energy, my performance in the gym was better. I even felt sharper mentally. I have been on over 10 depression medications and they only gave me terrible side effects. TRT was the first time in my life I felt a treatment work to such a degree.
My new level was around 750 ng/dl, and it hasn’t wavered since (18 months now).
With that said, I listened to your testosterone podcast and now I’m not entirely sure what to think. I’m scared to discontinue the treatment because I know my levels will crash until my system reboots, so to speak, but I also want to know if I actually need it. I have hypothyroidism as well (diagnosed before any of this) and I’m wondering if that’s a hint that my hypogonadism is indeed real.
What would you do in my situation?