There’s no denying that the male of the species can go through some pretty significant changes as he ages. With age comes the inevitable onset of a midlife crisis and all the issues that come with it. Men, just like their female counterparts, will eventually experience a drop in hormone levels and functions as they age, which is commonly known as the “Male Menopause” or Andropause (also known as ‘manopause’). Men going through Andropause might experience depressive symptoms such as feeling empty or listless; have little to no interest in previously enjoyable activities; feel isolated and have relationship issues with friends or family members; display increased anxiety and irritability; have trouble concentrating and remembering things; lose libido or sexual desire; sleep poorly and so on.
What Is Andropause?
The term andropause was first used in the late 1980s to refer to the drop in male sex hormones that naturally occurs as men get older. But unlike menopause in women, which is a clearly defined event, andropause is a gradual process that starts at around age 40 and may continue into the 60s and 70s. Like menopause, andropause is a natural, irreversible process. And like menopause, it’s a process that can cause significant physical and emotional changes. Unlike menopause in women, which is a clearly defined event, andropause is a gradual process that starts at around age 40 and may continue into the 60s and 70s. Like menopause, andropause is a natural, irreversible process. And like menopause, it’s a process that can cause significant physical and emotional changes.
The Basics of Andropause
As we grow older, the amount of testosterone in the body begins to decline. This occurs at the same rate in both men and women, but for men, the decline begins about 10 years earlier than in women. The result is a gradual decrease in sex drive, muscle mass, energy level and strength, as well as an increase in body fat, lower libido, fatigue, depression and loss of initiative. The typical male reaches his “peak” between the ages of 18 and 30, when testosterone levels are at their highest. After the age of 30, levels of this hormone begin a slow decline. By the time a man reaches his 60s, his testosterone level is only half of what it was in his 30s.
How to Know If You Have Andropause
Testosterone levels drop in all men as they age, but the amount differs from man to man. Some men with low testosterone experience no symptoms at all. Others, however, can experience significant problems because of low testosterone. If you think you may be experiencing symptoms of low testosterone, schedule an appointment with your doctor. Your doctor can perform a simple blood test to check your testosterone level. If you do have low testosterone, your doctor may recommend testosterone replacement therapy.
Risk Factors for Andropause
There are many risk factors for low testosterone and andropause, including: – Age: While testosterone levels naturally drop as men age, the process typically begins around age 40. – Family history: For some men, declining testosterone levels may be hereditary. If one or both of your parents experienced “andropause,” you are at a greater risk of experiencing it as well. – Weight: Being overweight or obese can lead to low testosterone. – Certain health conditions: Diseases and conditions like diabetes, kidney disease and certain cancers can cause low testosterone levels. – Medications: Certain medications such- as opioids, antidepressants, barbiturates, blood thinners and treatment for diabetes- can also cause low testosterone. – Poor nutrition: Eating a diet low in nutrients may lead to low testosterone.
Treaments for Andropause
If you have been diagnosed with low testosterone, your doctor may recommend testosterone replacement therapy. This can be in the form of an injection or a gel (which is applied to the skin). Testosterone replacement therapy can have side effects, including: – Acne or oily skin – Increased hair growth (on the face, chest or back) – Increased aggression – Mood swings – Sleep problems – Changes in sexual function (including reduced sexual interest, difficulty achieving orgasm, and a reduced ability to have an erection) – Liver damage – Increased risk of heart attack or stroke – The severity of these side effects varies from person to person.
Final Words
The term andropause, more commonly known as ‘manopause’, usually refers to the “change of life” experienced by men. This term is often used to describe the decline in male hormones that naturally occurs as men age. The process typically starts between the ages of 40 and 60, and can last for about five years. If you are experiencing any of the symptoms above, it is recommended that you schedule an appointment with your physician in order to determine the cause of your symptoms and, if required, receive treatment.