Is Testosterone Therapy Right for You? Dr. Karavadia Explains How to Diagnose Low Levels

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

  • Testosterone is a crucial hormone for men, affecting their daily energy levels, sexuality, and overall health.
  • Low testosterone can cause various symptoms, including fatigue, hot flashes, gynecomastia, and low libido.
  • Treatment options for low testosterone include patches, gels, injections, and long-term pellet therapy.

Introduction

Testosterone is a vital hormone for men, impacting their daily energy levels, sexuality, and overall health. Dr. Saumil Karavadia, a renowned urologist in Ocala, FL, provides insight into the symptoms of low testosterone, the importance of proper evaluation, and the available treatment options. Read on to learn more about testosterone therapy and how it could potentially benefit you.

The Importance of Testosterone for Men’s Health

According to Dr. Saumil Karavadia, MD, testosterone is a key hormone needed for men to maintain their health. Low testosterone levels can lead to numerous issues such as osteoporosis, decreased energy levels, and fatigue. Some individuals may experience symptoms similar to male menopause, including hot flashes, gynecomastia (enlarged breast tissue), low libido, and persistent fatigue.

Diagnosing Low Testosterone: Seeking Evaluation

If you suspect you may have low testosterone, Dr. Karavadia recommends seeking a professional evaluation to determine the cause. In many cases, low testosterone levels result from primary testicular failure, where the testicles do not produce enough of the hormone. This condition often requires testosterone therapy for treatment.

Testosterone Therapy Options

There are several treatment options available for low testosterone, including patches, gels, injections, and long-term pellet options. Dr. Karavadia highlights the convenience of pellet therapy, as it allows patients to receive treatment every three to four months, reducing the need for frequent visits to the clinic.

The Benefits of Testosterone Therapy

Patients who undergo testosterone therapy often experience a significant increase in their energy levels, allowing them to be more active and enjoy their daily lives. Additionally, testosterone therapy can improve libido, overall well-being, and alleviate feelings of fatigue or depression that can occur with age.

Advanced Urology Institute: Expertise You Can Trust

Dr. Saumil Karavadia is a dedicated urologist at the Advanced Urology Institute, the largest urology practice in Florida. Their commitment to providing exceptional care ensures that patients receive the best possible treatment for low testosterone and other urological concerns. Trust the experts at Advanced Urology Institute to guide you on your journey to improved health and well-being.

TRANSCRIPTION:

My name is Saumil Karavadia, I’m with Advanced Urology Specialists.

Testosterone is a male hormone that certainly has a big impact on a male’s sexuality as well as the daily energy that a person goes through from a day-to-day basis. Testosterone is one of the key hormones that’s needed to actually be healthy.

If you have low testosterone, it can certainly lead to osteoporosis, worsening energy levels, being tired. The majority of the symptoms are having like a male menopause. Hot flashes, gynecomastia, low libido, low fatigue. Those are all very common symptoms of having low testosterone. 

First thing is you’ll want to get evaluated. You’ll want to get checked out for the most common causes for this. And majority of the time it’s primary testicular failure where the testicles itself, they don’t produce any testosterone. When that happens, you need to supplement with testosterone therapy. And that’s one of the most common ways to treat it. There are several treatment options including patches, gels, injections, as well as long-term pellet options which are great for people who want to come in every three or four months and just get one treatment.

Once you start testosterone therapy, the patients have a significant increase in their energy. They’re sleeping not throughout the day. They’re being active and enjoying their lifestyle. They also have an increase in libido. They have an increase in their well-being. They don’t have that tired or fatigued feeling which is a big cause for being depressed almost as you get older.

REFERENCES:

What’s the Debate About PSA Testing? Dr. Edward King Clarifies the Controversial PSA Test

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

  • The PSA test is a controversial method of prostate cancer screening due to its lack of specificity.
  • Individualized screening is essential, with men aged 55 to 70 and those in high-risk groups being encouraged to undergo screening.
  • The decision to undergo prostate cancer screening should be made between the patient and their physician, considering individual risk factors.

The Purpose of PSA Testing

Edward D. King, MD, FACS, a urologist in Oxford, FL, explains that the PSA (prostate-specific antigen) is an enzyme found in the bloodstream. While the PSA itself is harmless, it serves as a marker for prostate cancer. In cancerous cases, more PSA tends to leak into the bloodstream, resulting in higher PSA levels. However, the PSA test is not highly specific, leading to controversy around its use in prostate cancer screening.

The Controversy Surrounding PSA Testing

According to Dr. King, among men with slightly elevated PSAs, the risk of finding cancer is about one in four. Due to this lack of specificity, other tests are often used alongside the PSA test to identify patients with elevated PSAs but no cancer. The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force has recommended against routine prostate cancer screening, which Dr. King believes is a mistake. Prostate cancer is the second leading cause of cancer deaths in the United States, tied with colon cancer, and some groups are at higher risk for developing and dying from prostate cancer.

Individualized Screening for Prostate Cancer

Dr. King emphasizes the importance of individualized screening for prostate cancer. He suggests that men aged 55 to 70, especially those in high-risk groups, should be screened. Men with low PSAs and no family history of prostate cancer may not need screening after the age of 70. Ultimately, the decision to undergo prostate cancer screening should be made between the patient and their physician, taking individual risk factors into account.

Advanced Urology Institute: Your Trusted Source for Prostate Cancer Screening

The Advanced Urology Institute, the largest urology practice in Florida, offers state-of-the-art prostate cancer screening and treatment options. Dr. Edward King and his team of expert urologists are dedicated to providing personalized care to ensure the best possible outcomes for their patients.

TRANSCRIPTION:

My name is Dr. Edward King, I’m a urologist at the Advanced Urology Institute.

The PSA is an enzyme that floats in the bloodstream. The PSA in and of itself doesn’t harm you, it only serves as a marker for prostate cancer.
In cancers, more of the PSA tends to leak into the bloodstream, and so the PSA tends to be higher. But the PSA is not real specific, and that’s the problem.

Among men with slightly elevated PSAs, the risk of finding cancer is about one in four. So we have other tests that we also use along with the PSA to try to weed out patients whose PSAs may be slightly elevated but who don’t have cancer. It is controversial, the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommended against routine prostate cancer screening in men.

I think that that was a mistake because prostate cancer is the second leading cause of cancer deaths in this country. It’s tied with colon cancers, and there are some groups that are higher risk for developing prostate cancer and dying from it.

So the screening has to be individualized, so it’s a choice between made with the patient makes with his physician. Typically men who have low PSAs, no family history of prostate cancer, probably don’t need to be screened after the age of 70, but I do think that men between the ages of
55 and 70, especially men in high risk groups, do need to be screened.

REFERENCES:

Prostate Cancer – Risk Factors and Screening

Video: Prostate Cancer – Risk Factors and Screening



One of the major characteristics of prostate cancer is that it grows very slowly. The cancerous cells in the prostate can remain without symptoms for decades. This is why almost 75% of men with prostate cancer never even know they have a cancerous growth. Contact a urologist now and get treatment for this condition as soon as possible. [Read Full Article…]

What Can You Expect During Prostate Cancer Recovery? Insights from Dr. Saumil Karavadia

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

  • Radiation therapy for prostate cancer is well tolerated and has minimal side effects, allowing patients to quickly return to daily activities.
  • Robotic surgery has revolutionized prostate cancer treatment, offering a less invasive option with a quicker recovery time.
  • Patients can expect a hospital stay of up to 24 hours after robotic surgery, with a catheter in place for approximately one week during recovery.

Introduction

Prostate cancer is a common concern for men, but advancements in treatment options have improved patient outcomes and recovery experiences. Dr. Saumil Karavadia, a leading urologist in Oxford, FL, shares his expertise on what patients can expect during recovery from prostate cancer treatments, including radiation therapy and robotic surgery.

 

Radiation Therapy: A Well-Tolerated Treatment

According to Dr. Karavadia, radiation therapy for prostate cancer is extremely well tolerated by patients. The treatment process is typically quick, allowing patients to return to their daily activities, such as golfing, shortly after receiving therapy. Additionally, radiation therapy tends to have minimal side effects, making it an attractive option for those requiring prostate cancer treatment.

 

Robotic Surgery: A Game Changer for Prostate Cancer Treatment

Robotic surgery has revolutionized prostate cancer treatment, offering patients a less invasive and quicker recovery option. Dr. Karavadia explains that patients undergoing robotic surgery for prostate cancer can expect a hospital stay of less than a day or up to 24 hours. Following surgery, patients are often discharged the next morning, allowing them to return home and continue their recovery.

 

Post-Surgery Recovery: What to Expect

After robotic surgery, patients will have a catheter in place for approximately one week. Once the catheter is removed, patients can continue recovering at home. Dr. Karavadia emphasizes that the recovery process is generally well tolerated by patients, further highlighting the benefits of robotic surgery for prostate cancer treatment.

 

Advanced Urology Institute: Your Partner in Prostate Cancer Care

At the Advanced Urology Institute, the largest urology practice in Florida, Dr. Saumil Karavadia and his team of experts are committed to providing the highest quality care for patients with prostate cancer. By utilizing the latest advancements in prostate cancer treatment, the Advanced Urology Institute ensures that patients receive the best possible care and support throughout their recovery journey.

 

TRANSCRIPTION: 

My name is Saumil Karavadia, I’m with Advanced Urology Specialists.

Treatment for prostate cancer with radiation is extremely well tolerated. Patients come in, they get their radiation treatment, and ten minutes later they go out in their golf cart and they’re playing golf. So it is very well tolerated, very few side effects. 

In terms of surgery, again, the robotics has certainly changed things and patients are in and out of the hospital in less than a day. Sometimes they take up to a day, but usually it’s 24 hours. You have the surgery in the morning, you stay overnight, and patients are ready to go home
the next morning. They keep a catheter in for about a week and they have it out after that, again, very well tolerated.

REFERENCES: 

An Individual Approach to Treating Prostate Cancer

Video: An Individual Approach to Treating Prostate Cancer



After confirming a prostate cancer diagnosis, physicians proceed to determining the aggressiveness of the disease. This is called “cancer grading.” The pathologist will use the biopsy preparations to assess the differences between normal cancer cells and cancerous prostate cells. [Read Full Article…]

Dr Richard Roach – Prostate Cancer Treatment

Video: Dr Andrew Sher – Prostate Cancer Treatment



Surgery is uncommonly done for patients age 70 and over, as the gain in benefit does not counterbalance the increased risk. The operation is usually done through a lower abdominal incision, although some surgeons prefer the perineal approach, where the incision is made between the scrotum and rectum. [Read Full Article…]

Prostate Cancer – Understanding Your Options

Video: Prostate Cancer – Understanding Your Options



There are many treatment options for prostate cancer. Depending upon the stage of the disease, robotic surgery, radiation therapy, cryoablation, hormonal therapy and even watchful waiting are some of the alternatives to be considered. Contact a urologist now and get treatment for this condition as soon as possible. [Read Full Article…]

Evolving Technology in Urology

Video: Evolving Technology in Urology



Male Urology is the medical and surgical field that is especially devoted to the treatment on the urinary tracts of males and on his reproductive health. Some common urological disorders found among men are; Erectile Dysfunction, Prostate Cancer, Enlarged prostate, Penis Pain, Blood in the semen, Scrotal masses, Premature ejaculation, Testicular failure and many more. [Read Full Article…]

Complications from an Enlarged Prostate

Video: Complications from an Enlarged Prostate



Studies show that when the male hormone testosterone reaches the prostate in large amounts, it increases the speed of production of prostate cells and promotes the gland’s enlargement. Contact a urologist now and get treatment for this condition as soon as possible. [Read Full Article…]

What Causes Kidney Stones? Dr. Edward King Reveals the Science Behind Their Formation

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

  • Kidney stones are more likely to form in warm, humid climates and in individuals who do not consume enough fluids, leading to concentrated urine.
  • Consuming foods high in oxalate, such as green leafy vegetables, pecans, and nuts, increases the risk of kidney stone formation.
  • To prevent kidney stones, maintain proper hydration, limit high-oxalate food consumption, and consult with a urologist at the Advanced Urology Institute for personalized prevention and treatment plans.

Introduction

Kidney stones are a common and painful condition that affects many people across the globe. Urologist in Ocala, FL, Dr. Edward D. King, provides insights into the science behind kidney stone formation, emphasizing the importance of understanding the factors that contribute to their development.

The Role of Climate and Hydration

According to Dr. Edward King, kidney stones tend to form more frequently in warm, humid climates. This is because the body loses more water through sweating, leading to more concentrated urine. When patients do not consume enough fluid to compensate for this loss, the risk of kidney stone formation increases.

Diet and Oxalate Consumption

Dr. King explains that diet also plays a crucial role in kidney stone formation, particularly the consumption of foods high in oxalate. Oxalate is a naturally occurring substance found in many foods, including green leafy vegetables (e.g., spinach and kale), as well as pecans and nuts. Consuming high levels of oxalate increases the likelihood of forming kidney stones, as this substance is not very soluble in water or urine.

The Formation and Migration of Kidney Stones

When kidney stones form, they begin as small crystals that grow slowly over time. The pain associated with kidney stones typically occurs when the stone migrates into the ureter, the tube that carries urine from the kidney to the bladder. This migration blocks the flow of urine, causing the kidney to swell and resulting in intense pain in the back, flank, and groin areas.

Prevention and Treatment

To prevent kidney stones, Dr. King recommends maintaining proper hydration and limiting the consumption of high-oxalate foods. Additionally, working with a healthcare professional, such as a urologist at the Advanced Urology Institute, can help patients develop personalized prevention and treatment plans.

The Advanced Urology Institute is the largest urology practice in Florida, offering comprehensive care for various urological conditions, including kidney stones. With a team of experienced professionals and state-of-the-art facilities, patients can expect exceptional care and support throughout their treatment journey.

TRANSCRIPTION:

Well, kidney stones often form in warm, humid climates. They occur in concentrated urine when patients don’t consume enough fluid.
It can also be diet related. There’s a substance called oxalate that’s found naturally in many foods such as green leafy vegetables, spinach, kale, pecans, and nuts.

So patients who consume foods that are high in oxalate are much more likely to form kidney stones because the substance oxalate is not very soluble in water or urine. Stones typically cause pain by blocking the flow of urine. When the stone is forming in your kidney, it starts as a small crystal and just grows slowly often.

When it migrates into the tube that carries urine from the kidney to the bladder called the ureter, then it blocks the flow of urine. The kidney swells and that’s when patients get pain. There’s actually pain in the back or in the flank that radiates to the front and often down into the groin. It can be pretty intense pain.

REFERENCES:

Why Shouldn’t You Feel Embarrassed About Erectile Dysfunction? Insights from Dr. Dinesh Rao

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

  • Increased awareness and open conversations about erectile dysfunction can help break the stigma surrounding the condition, encouraging more people to seek help.
  • The widespread recognition of ED and the availability of treatment options have made it easier for individuals to discuss their concerns with a healthcare professional.
  • The Advanced Urology Institute, the largest urology practice in Florida, offers comprehensive care for patients experiencing erectile dysfunction, including treatment from leading urologist Dr. Dinesh S. Rao.

Introduction: Breaking the Stigma

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a common condition that affects many men, yet the topic has long been considered taboo or embarrassing to discuss. Dr. Dinesh S. Rao, a leading urologist in Ocala, FL, believes that increased awareness and open conversations about ED can help break the stigma, encouraging more people to seek help and receive the treatment they need.

The Role of Publicity and Awareness

According to Dr. Rao, the increased publicity surrounding ED medications has been beneficial for patients. The widespread awareness of the condition and the availability of treatment options have made it easier for people to talk about their experiences with ED. As a result, more individuals feel comfortable discussing their concerns with a healthcare professional and seeking appropriate help.

Normalizing the Conversation Around Erectile Dysfunction

The term “erectile dysfunction” has become more widely recognized and understood, which has helped normalize conversations around the condition. Dr. Rao emphasizes that this increased awareness is crucial, as it allows both men and women to recognize that ED is a widespread problem and not a source of embarrassment. By fostering open discussions about ED, more people are likely to seek help and receive the appropriate treatment.

Seeking Help at the Advanced Urology Institute

The Advanced Urology Institute, the largest urology practice in Florida, is committed to providing comprehensive care for patients experiencing erectile dysfunction. With a team of skilled professionals, including Dr. Dinesh S. Rao, the Advanced Urology Institute offers innovative treatment options and a supportive environment for patients dealing with ED.

TRANSCRIPTION:

I think the greater amount of publicity that the medications have evoked are actually very good for patients. I think many people were very nervous or shy to ask about erectile dysfunction. Even the phrase erectile dysfunction has become something that most people have now heard of, whereas before they didn’t even have that phrase. And so I think it’s actually been very helpful. People are now not quite as afraid to mention it when they come in for an office visit. I think the awareness is important because then women and men both can realize that this is a widespread problem and it’s not an embarrassment to ask for help with it. The more that people ask for help, the more they’ll receive it. So I think the awareness of erectile dysfunction, the awareness that it is very prevalent in that aging population is a good thing and I don’t really see any negatives about it.

REFERENCES:

Advances in Medical Technology by Dr. Richard Roach

Urologist is a medical practice dedicated to the treatment of disorders and diseases related to the male and female genito-urinary organs, including the kidney, ureters, bladder, prostate and genitalia. Contact a urologist now and get treatment for this condition as soon as possible. [Read Full Article…]

What Causes Erectile Dysfunction and How Can It Be Treated? Dr. Dinesh S. Rao Explains

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

  • Erectile dysfunction is a common issue, affecting half of all men over the age of 40.
  • Various factors can contribute to erectile dysfunction, including aging, low hormone levels, smoking, alcohol use, and vascular disease.
  • A wide range of treatment options is available, from oral medications to surgical interventions, and the Advanced Urology Institute offers comprehensive care for patients with erectile dysfunction.

The Prevalence of Erectile Dysfunction

Dr. Dinesh S. Rao, a respected urologist in Ocala, FL, explains that erectile dysfunction (ED) is a common issue faced by many men, particularly those over the age of 40. In fact, half of all men over 40 experience some degree of erectile dysfunction. Despite its prevalence, many patients feel hesitant or embarrassed to discuss the issue with their healthcare providers.

Causes of Erectile Dysfunction

Erectile dysfunction can be caused by various factors. Some well-known causes include smoking and alcohol use. However, other factors, such as aging, low hormone levels, and vascular disease, can also contribute to ED. Dr. Rao emphasizes that heart disease and high cholesterol can have a profound effect on erections, further highlighting the importance of addressing underlying health issues.

Treatment Options for Erectile Dysfunction

When treating erectile dysfunction, Dr. Rao and his team at the Advanced Urology Institute screen for basic causes and attempt to reverse them where possible. They also offer a wide range of treatment options to suit each patient’s unique needs. These include:

  • Oral medications: Common medications, such as Viagra, Levitra, and Cialis, are often the first line of treatment for erectile dysfunction.
  • Mechanical devices: Vacuum erection aids can help those who do not tolerate oral medications.
  • Injectable therapies: Available at local pharmacies, these treatments are another option for those who cannot take oral medications. Dr. Rao’s team teaches patients how to administer injectable therapies safely and effectively.
  • Surgical interventions: Penile implantations are an option for patients who have not found success with other treatments.

Advanced Urology Institute: Comprehensive Care for Erectile Dysfunction

The Advanced Urology Institute, the largest urology practice in Florida, is dedicated to providing comprehensive care for patients with erectile dysfunction. Dr. Dinesh S. Rao and his team of skilled urologists work closely with each patient to determine the most effective treatment options, ensuring the best possible outcomes.

TRANSCRIPTION:

Many of my patients have erectile dysfunction and many of them are afraid to bring it up. There’s always some hesitation or embarrassment involved. There’s a feeling that it’s just me or there’s something wrong with me. The interesting thing is, and many people don’t know, that half of all men over the age of 40 have erectile dysfunction. So it’s extremely common, not uncommon. And there’s many, many different causes. 

Some of the things I think a lot of people are aware of, things like smoking and alcohol use, but also just aging, low hormone levels, and vascular disease apply to erectile dysfunction. If you have some element of heart disease or high cholesterol, it can make a profound effect on erections. When people come in with that problem, we screen for the basic causes and see if we can reverse some of those things, but there’s also many different types of treatments available. So we certainly have all of the different available here in our practice. Some of the most basic things include medicines, medications that people have probably heard of, things like Viagra or Levitra or Cialis. There’s also mechanical devices like vacuum erection aids that can help in people who don’t tolerate those types of medicines. We have injectable therapies that are also available and they’re available to local pharmacies and we teach people how to use them. And we even do surgeries, things like penile implantations for people who don’t succeed with other options.

REFERENCES:

What is Erectile Dysfunction? by Dr. Richard Roach

A man may have Erectile Dysfunction if he had failed to have an erection, or may have inconsistent ability to achieve an erection and lastly he can only sustain an erection briefly. Contact a urologist now and get treatment for this condition as soon as possible. [Read Full Article…]