Risk Mitigation Strategies
1. Monitor Hematocrit
| HCT Level | Action |
|---|---|
| < 50% | Normal — monitor |
| 50–54% | Donate blood (therapeutic phlebotomy) if symptomatic |
| > 54% | Reduce T dose or phlebotomy |
2. Manage Cardiovascular Risk
- Monitor blood pressure monthly
- Get annual lipid panels
- Exercise regularly (150 min/week)
- Maintain healthy diet
- Don't smoke
3. Acne Management
- Gentle cleansing twice daily
- Over-the-counter benzoyl peroxide / salicylic acid
- See a dermatologist for severe acne
4. Scalp Hair Preservation
- If genetically predisposed to balding, consider finasteride 1 mg/day
- Minoxidil (Rogaine) for regrowth
- Accept that some hair loss is normal
5. Regular Monitoring Schedule
| Test | Frequency |
|---|---|
| Total T | Every 3 months (year 1), then every 6 months |
| CBC (hematocrit) | Every 3 months (year 1), then every 6 months |
| Lipid panel | Annually |
| Blood pressure | Every 1–3 months |