Andropause is a condition that affects aging men as their testosterone levels decline. It is sometimes referred to as male menopause, although it is different from female menopause.
The symptoms of andropause develop gradually, unlike the more abrupt hormone changes of female menopause. It typically begins in a man's 40s or 50s and worsens over time. The low testosterone can cause symptoms including:
- Low sex drive and erectile dysfunction
- Decreased muscle mass and strength
- Fatigue and lack of energy
- Irritability, depression or mood changes
- Difficulty concentrating or "brain fog"
- Hot flashes and night sweats
- Loss of body hair
- Reduced bone density (osteoporosis)
What causes andropause?
Andropause is caused by a gradual drop in
testosterone - the primary male sex hormone. Testosterone levels peak in a man's late 20s to early 30s. After age 30, testosterone declines by about 1% per year. Although this is a natural part of aging, some men experience a more dramatic drop that leads to symptoms.
Risk factors for andropause include:
- Age - testosterone decline accelerates after 50
- Obesity
- Diabetes
- High blood pressure
- High cholesterol
- Inactive lifestyle
- Stress
- Smoking and alcohol use
- Certain medications
How is andropause diagnosed?
If symptoms of andropause are impacting your life, see your doctor for an evaluation. They will check your testosterone levels with a simple blood test. Levels below 300 nanograms/deciliter are considered low. Your doctor may also check other hormone levels related to testosterone.
Treatment options for andropause
If low testosterone is causing bothersome symptoms, treatment can help restore levels and improve quality of life. Treatment options may include:
- Testosterone replacement therapy - testosterone gels, injections, patches or pellets. This is the most effective treatment.
- Lifestyle changes - weight loss, exercise, stress management, proper sleep and diet.
- Medications - such as Viagra for erectile dysfunction.
- Nutritional supplements - zinc, vitamin D, DHEA.
The doctors at
Renew Clinic specialize in testosterone therapy and effectively treating andropause. We provide customized treatment plans to help men feel healthy, energetic and youthful again.
I hope this overview on andropause in aging men has been helpful!