One of the hardest hormones to manage while on testosterone replacement therapy is estrogen. This is statement is more true if you’re overweight or have a high BMI count. (All the more reason to start working out if you’re not already) Men will in some cases report that their TRT began excellent only for it to “stop working” a few months into therapy.
Understanding Low and High Estrogen Levels in Males
Physicians experienceded in TRT will likely send you out for an estrogen test and begin you on an aromatase inhibitor such as Arimidex if high estrogen is the cause. This powerful drug, if not used correctly however can cause tanked estrogen levels which come along with symptoms as bad as high E2 levels! The objective is a balance. Let’s take a look at the symptoms of both:
Low Estradiol (Estrogen) Symptoms in Men
- Fatigue along the lines of drowsiness
- hypersomnia (sleeping excessive and frequently).
- strong erections but limited sensitivity.
- loss of erections.
- osteoporosis and osteopenia.
- joint pain, clicking or popping joints.
- eye tiredness (eyes seem more tired regardless of sufficient sleep, dark circles).
- loss of libido (interest in sex).
- problem maintaining water (continuous urination).
- stress and anxiety, irritation.
High Estradiol (Estrogen) Symptoms in Men
- Soft erections, inability to keep an erection.
- water retention (less frequent urination), leading to extreme sweating, blood pressure spikes or high blood pressure (from the water retention).
- sleeping disorders.
- hot flushing (flushing around the ears or on the face).
- night sweats (from estradiol lowering, triggering loss of water retention).
- bloating; brain fog (like your head’s in a bubble).
- testicles seem smaller sized than typical.
As you can see Estrogen when not handled correctly can wreak absolute havoc on the male body. I’ve had the joy of experiencing both and I’m unsure which is even worse (Though I’d probably side with high estrogen levels). What I’ve found best in all of this is pay attention to your body. I’ve had several blood tests done, visits to the doctor and without a doubt my body was constantly informing me what my doctor validated. Listen to it. If you have any of the above symptoms obtain in for a blood test as quickly as possible then speak with your doctor about treatment (If you’re a money patient, see my post about how to save money on blood work) If you’re doctor refuses to offer you with the medication you require, switch medical professionals.
When my estrogen levels were at their peak (249!) I instantly fell under a deep depression not like anything I ‘d ever experienced prior to. I’d stopped going to the health club and acquired a substantial quantity of weight. My doctor had actually mentioned that I needed to lower the fat in my body in order to avoid my testosterone from converting into estrogen (and rightly so). But I was so exhausted just making it to the supermarket and paying bills was a challenging goal for the day. What a dreadful time that was.
Thankfully, I’m now on my way to a well balanced regulated schedule of Arimidex and a lower dosage of testosterone. Within days I started to feel much better and I’m back to playing outdoors with my kids, learning brand-new sheets on the piano, running in the early morning and raising a few weight during the week. It’s likewise the main reason I started Dosage May Vary. I wouldn’t want a few of my estrogen symptoms on my worst opponent.
How to check your estrogen levels at home?
1. Ring finger test
If you wear a ring and you notice it fitting tighter than normal you are likely bloating. This is typically a pretty good indication you’re keeping water which can indicate high estradiol.
2. Weight Gain
If you’re weight has increased specifically in the early morning you likely have some water retention going on.
3. Fatigue
This one is the worst. When my E2 levels were around 249 fatigue was an understatement. I was definitely shot and could barely function. I was tired throughout the day even after 8 hours of rest. I’m self used and that much down time is devastating to my company. If you’re awakening after a great nights rest just to be worn out again in a few hours or your eyes appear constantly heavy or exhausted throughout the day, your estrogen is most likely high.
Do not count on the home tests, get your bloodwork pulled as quickly as possible. This is treatable! When you’re able to restore your energy levels do your best to eat a healthy diet and bring your weight down.