Andropause or male menopause is a condition in men that is associated with the decrease of the male testosterone hormone. Unlike menopause, the decrease in testosterone hormone and development of symptoms and complications are more gradual than what happens to women. Based on researches and studies results, 30% of men over 50s are experiencing andropause symptoms. Men suffering from andropause may have a number of symptoms in relation to the condition, and may be at high risk of other serious health conditions like osteoporosis and deal with it without proper treatment.
The Top 8 Andropause Symptoms
Andropause symptoms may vary from person to person, but the most common symptoms of andropause include:
1. Lack of Energy
2. Low Sex Drive
3. Increased Body Fat
4. Difficulties in Getting Erections
5. Mood Swings and Irritability
6. Depression
7. Hot Flashes
8. Loss of Muscle Mass or Strength
In addition, complications associated with the condition can also develop, such as osteoporosis, and increased risk of cardiovascular disease.
The decrease in the production of testosterone hormone is the most common symptom of andropause. But as men age, the body not just starts making lower testosterone hormone levels, but also decreases the production of sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG). The SHBG is responsible for pulling out the usable testosterone hormones from the blood, and increases the sex hormone levels of men.
Men suffering from andropause symptoms at early 50s may have lower levels of testosterone in their blood. Also, the tissues within the body that receive testosterone are stimulated by them resulting in various physical and possibly mental changes such as fatigue or mood swings.
Andropause Diagnosis
Men suffering from any of the andropause symptoms should consult their doctor as soon as they can. Your doctor will ask you questions about how you are feeling to determine if your symptoms match with those people suffering from lower testosterone hormone levels. A blood test will be performed to check the levels of testosterone hormones in your blood.
Lower testosterone levels can be associated with other conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and hypogonadism that cause retardation of sexual growth and development. Because of these conditions, your doctor will do a series of tests to rule out the possibilities of these conditions before proceeding to andropause diagnosis. Patients must also understand that most symptoms associated with andropause are normal signs of aging, and there can be no reversible treatment for them.
If your testosterone hormone levels are low, you may opt for testosterone replacement therapy. This can help relieve the symptoms of andropause such as loss in interest in sex, fatigue, and depression. While testosterone replacement therapy is recommended to men, it may have potential risks to women. Replacing testosterone in women may lead to prostate cancer, for example.
If you are displaying symptoms of andropause, consult your doctor to determine your actual condition. This will enable you to determine the causes and possible treatment for the condition that you can go through. Sometimes, a good diet and regular exercise are the most common ways to increase your testosterone hormone levels.
