The terms “male menopause” and “andropause” are popping up all over the place now, with more and more men facing concerns regarding a mid-life hormonal decline. Once referred to somewhat disdainfully as “mid-life crisis”, male menopause puts a more accurate label on a very genuine – and sometimes distressing – condition. There are very real reasons for this mid-life decline, and many men are somewhat relieved that it is no longer being written off as a silly “crisis”.
Andropause, often called male menopause, refers to a decline in androgens – namely, testosterone – in a man’s body as he ages. When a man is around 18 years old, his testosterone is at peak production levels (thus, the “hormonal” teenager). Production drops off slightly as a man enters his upper 20s; however, testosterone generally remains at a healthy level for most of a man’s life. As a man reaches his 50s, however, testosterone production is often significantly reduced, and this is when noticeable signs begin to crop up.
Since testosterone is responsible for much of what makes men manly, including sex drive, the creation and release of sperm, muscular strength and growth, as well as facial and body hair growth, the sudden drop in testosterone levels can be rather disconcerting.
Menopause vs. andropause – what’s the difference?Labeling this decline in testosterone “male menopause” can be fairly misleading. While menopause occurs in all women, and is the result of a complete decline of sex hormones, this is not the case with men.
When a woman enters menopause, estrogen levels will disappear altogether. This total decline results in a complete loss of fertility, and will typically be accompanied by symptoms that are much more severe. While a man often faces a decline in androgen levels, his body will never completely quit producing testosterone. That means men continue to be fertile and will continue to produce sperm well into old age.
So while the conditions are similar, there are some very key differences between the two. Men should also be aware that there are treatments available to ease or resolve any symptoms that may arise.
Nearly every man will experience the symptoms of andropause. Not every case will be serious, or even very noticeable; however, understanding the symptoms can remove some of the anxiety attached to this condition. Being aware of what to expect can also help a man take steps to delay, minimize, or even eliminate symptoms before they arise. Here are some of the most common symptoms of male menopause:
If you feel you may be suffering some of the symptoms of male menopause, talk to your doctor. The doctor will run some tests to see how your testosterone levels are doing, and will ask questions about symptoms you are experiencing. Discussing your concerns with your doctor can not only put your mind at rest regarding male menopause, but it can address any other conditions that might be causing your symptoms.
Can male menopause be treated?If the symptoms you are experiencing can be traced back to male menopause, your doctor may prescribe testosterone replacement therapy. This treatment can help to ease some of the symptoms of androgen deficiency, including decreased libido, fatigue, and depression.
In addition, your doctor may suggest certain lifestyle changes in addition to or in place of therapy. A simple change in diet or a new exercise program may offer substantial relief from many of the symptoms you might be facing.
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