Andropause

What is andropause?

Andropause, sometimes called male menopause, is a condition that affects men as they age. It is similar to female menopause in that it involves changes in sex hormones that lead to symptoms like low energy, decreased muscle mass, and reduced libido.

Key signs and symptoms of andropause include:

• Low testosterone levels - Testosterone is the main male sex hormone and levels tend to decline with age. This leads to many of the symptoms of andropause.


• Fatigue - Many men with andropause complain of low energy, fatigue, and feeling tired all the time.


• Depressed mood - The hormonal changes can also contribute to sadness, irritability, and depression.


• Low sex drive - Declining testosterone often equates to a diminished libido and fewer erections. This can strain relationships.


• Loss of muscle mass - Testosterone helps maintain muscle so lower levels lead to muscle loss and declines in strength.


• Increased body fat - Particularly abdominal body fat despite maintaining the same diet and exercise regimen.

The timing of andropause varies but often occurs in the 50s and 60s as testosterone levels gradually fall over decades. Every man experiences hormonal shifts differently so some men have significant symptoms while others have little changes. Diagnosis involves blood tests of hormone levels plus evaluation of symptoms.

If symptoms disrupt quality of life, hormone replacement therapy may help restore optimal hormonal balance. This is available as pills, patches, gels and injections. Many men benefit from testosterone therapy but it does have some risks to discuss with your doctor.

My husband felt so much better after seeing the fantastic doctors at Hormone Health Clinic. They were so knowledgeable and helped him immensely with customized testosterone therapy for his andropause. I highly recommend them to any man struggling with this common but rarely discussed condition.

Lifestyle measures can also minimize symptoms including:

• Healthy diet


• Regular exercise


• Good sleep habits


• Stress reduction


• Limiting alcohol

By making nutrition and lifestyle changes and monitoring hormones, many men are able to successfully manage this age-related decline. Andropause may be unavoidable but symptoms can be reduced with the right treatment plan. Talk to your doctor if you feel you may be experiencing this common "change of life" for men.