Testosterone restores libido and patience
Q. My wife was complaining about my low libido, not to mention general grumpiness. The doctor diagnosed depression, but I vehemently disagreed and demanded he check my testosterone levels. They were around pre-teen levels.
He put me on a topical gel that helped somewhat. However, I found the results inconsistent (as measured by blood tests and also by my mood and libido).
Since my primary doc wasn’t listening to me and wasn’t a specialist, I found a clinic. They switched me to shots and worked with me to get my levels consistent. It turns out I feel best at the higher end of the normal range. My moods leveled out. I had tons more patience. That competitive drive reignited. I can think more clearly; it’s like my mind is sharper. My libido is back, too.
I get regular blood tests to make sure my testosterone level is constant and that I don’t get side effects.
A. Thank you for sharing your story. The Food and Drug Administration discourages the use of testosterone in older men, “even if a man’s symptoms seem related to low testosterone.” The agency warns that such hormone replacement could increase the risk for heart attacks and strokes.
A review of 13 randomized controlled trials found that testosterone increased muscle strength without elevating the risk for heart problems or prostate cancer (Gerontology, July 26, 2023). A larger study also concluded that such treatment did not increase cardiovascular events (Lancet Healthy Longevity, June 2022).
As long as you are under medical supervision and get regular follow-up, your regimen seems helpful.
Q. I have been seeing TV commercials for nail fungus treatments. These are all over-the-counter products.
Two of my toenails have become thick, discolored and misshapen. I am wondering if any of these products would be worth a try.
A. Nail fungus may be a misnomer, in the sense that a substantial number of cases may be caused by bacterial as well as fungal infections. One study reported that as many as 50% of icky nails were caused by bacteria alone (Journal of the American Podiatric Medical Association, March 1, 2021).
Readers have been telling us for years that soaking their feet in old-fashioned amber Listerine, with or without white vinegar, can be helpful against nasty nails. That may be partly because of the alcohol content, which could discourage both fungus and bacteria.
Others report that an OTC antibiotic ointment such as Neosporin (bacitracin zinc, neomycin sulfate, and polymyxin B sulfate) applied twice daily helps eradicate some infections.
To learn more about a variety of approaches against ugly nails, you may wish to read our “eGuide to Favorite Home Remedies.” This online resource may be found under the Health eGuides tab at www.PeoplesPharmacy.com.
Q. I have been on Remicade for eight years. Recently I developed a severe scalp rash which required antibiotic and steroid treatment to get it under control.
My dermatologist is concerned that it could be scalp psoriasis triggered by Remicade. Is that possible?
A. Remicade (infliximab) is a powerful immune modulating drug prescribed for inflammatory bowel diseases, autoimmune arthritis and psoriasis.
Your dermatologist may be right, as shown by a new study (Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology, July 10, 2023). People taking medications like Remicade for inflammatory bowel disease had a higher rate of developing psoriasis or rheumatoid arthritis.
In their column, Joe and Teresa Graedon answer letters from readers. Write to them in care of King Features, 628 Virginia Drive, Orlando, FL 32803, or email them via their website: www.PeoplesPharmacy.com. Their newest book is “Top Screwups Doctors Make and How to Avoid Them.”