Community Conversation => Transitioning => Hormone replacement therapy => Topic started by: jamherst on November 17, 2010, 06:20:58 PM Return to Full Version
Title: T and Immune System
Post by: jamherst on November 17, 2010, 06:20:58 PM
Post by: jamherst on November 17, 2010, 06:20:58 PM
Hey guys, like the title says, I got a question regarding the immune system on T.
I've found minimal information on whether T lowers the immune system or not. I'm starting T soon and I really need to keep my internal army strong. I don't smoke or drink and eat generally very healthy with the once in a blue moon chip binge--not sure if this is going to be a big problem or not.
If you guys have any opinions, it would really help. Thanks!
I've found minimal information on whether T lowers the immune system or not. I'm starting T soon and I really need to keep my internal army strong. I don't smoke or drink and eat generally very healthy with the once in a blue moon chip binge--not sure if this is going to be a big problem or not.
If you guys have any opinions, it would really help. Thanks!
Title: Re: T and Immune System
Post by: Aidan_ on November 17, 2010, 07:03:29 PM
Post by: Aidan_ on November 17, 2010, 07:03:29 PM
The only thing I've heard is T causes a serious drop in estrogen and that in turn, leaves you with higher cortisol levels (they may be temporary however). Cortisol could lower the immune system's response but...if you're good at controlling stress and managing yourself you should not run into very serious problems. You'd need high levels of Cortisol (as in high levels of stress) for an extended period of time (maybe, a month+?) to cause serious damage.
Title: Re: T and Immune System
Post by: jamherst on November 17, 2010, 09:07:02 PM
Post by: jamherst on November 17, 2010, 09:07:02 PM
I actually never heard of cortisol...I will ask my doctor about it! Thanks ^^.
So far I've only heard about T throwing the body out of balance with cholestrol and what not.
So far I've only heard about T throwing the body out of balance with cholestrol and what not.
Title: Re: T and Immune System
Post by: Miniar on November 18, 2010, 10:45:28 AM
Post by: Miniar on November 18, 2010, 10:45:28 AM
I drink about once a month-ish, and I smoke about once or twice a week. I'm an omnivore and I don't get enough exercise. I'm extremely stressed at all times and it's a wonder I haven't killed myself...
... But I'm never "sick".
Been on T a year and haven't felt any difference in that department at all.
Still "never sick".
I mean, I caught a HORRIBLE stomach bug while recovering from hysto and was out of bed again in half the time it took my (better general health) husband to.
So I doubt it makes much of a difference.
However, I think I "might" be a little weaker to the alcohol as I feel a little drunk-er when I drink these days.
... But I'm never "sick".
Been on T a year and haven't felt any difference in that department at all.
Still "never sick".
I mean, I caught a HORRIBLE stomach bug while recovering from hysto and was out of bed again in half the time it took my (better general health) husband to.
So I doubt it makes much of a difference.
However, I think I "might" be a little weaker to the alcohol as I feel a little drunk-er when I drink these days.
Title: Re: T and Immune System
Post by: regan on November 18, 2010, 10:49:11 AM
Post by: regan on November 18, 2010, 10:49:11 AM
Stress affects your immune system. To your body it doesn't really matter whether its physical or psychological. Try to eat a healthy diet and get regular exercise. You might also consider vitamins. B vitamins are "stress" vitamins, you might also consider a vitamin pack designed for stress, etc.
Title: Re: T and Immune System
Post by: JohnR on November 18, 2010, 05:29:24 PM
Post by: JohnR on November 18, 2010, 05:29:24 PM
I have been healthier on T than I was beforehand, no illnesses at all.
Title: Re: T and Immune System
Post by: Rock_chick on November 19, 2010, 02:27:14 AM
Post by: Rock_chick on November 19, 2010, 02:27:14 AM
All that happens is that you become more susceptible to man flu ;) :laugh:
Title: Re: T and Immune System
Post by: LordKAT on November 19, 2010, 02:35:13 AM
Post by: LordKAT on November 19, 2010, 02:35:13 AM
Quote from: Helena on November 19, 2010, 02:27:14 AM
All that happens is that you become more susceptible to man flu ;) :laugh:
bring it on!!!
seriously, never been sick since starting T over a year ago.
Title: Re: T and Immune System
Post by: regan on November 19, 2010, 07:30:52 AM
Post by: regan on November 19, 2010, 07:30:52 AM
I have a superhuman immune system, but that's a story for another post...