Ruchi Verma Many people believe that menopause is exclusively a condition that affects women, but are men also affected by menopause? If you have heard the word “andropause,” you may be wondering: What exactly is andropause? In actuality, a lot of guys experience something comparable. Menopause is commonly caused by the natural changes that occur in our bodies and hormones as we age. Let’s explore andropause in detail, including what it is, why men may experience it, and its signs and symptoms.
Male Menopause: Andropause
Male features are mostly transferred by androgens, also known as another name for sex hormones. Secondary sexual features like voice modulation, bone and muscle development, and facial hair growth are regulated by these hormones.
The main sex hormone in males, testosterone, is produced in the testicles and mainly affects appetite and semen production. Men and women suffer similar symptoms during menopause; men may not necessarily experience an abrupt and inevitable reduction in androgen production, despite the name “male menopause” being coined for this phenomenon. Male andropause is usually a progressive process that happens over time and isn’t just related to aging.
As men grow older, there is a gradual reduction in hormone levels, specifically testosterone, a natural occurrence known as andropause or late-onset hypogonadism. Often referred to as male menopause, andropause has a significant impact on a man’s physical and mental well-being, although it is less recognized than women’s menopause. Unlike menopause in women, which occurs more abruptly, andropause develops more gradually over decades, usually starting at age 40. You can also read about MidLife Crisis
Symptoms of Andropause
Even though not every man will see a decline in testosterone as they age, those who do may have actual menopause-related symptoms. Because of the remarkable similarities between the symptoms of andropause and those of female menopause, andropause is often referred to as male menopause. The most obvious symptom to a man who may be going through andropause may be erection problems. Healthy men experience around 10 involuntary erections every 24 hours, so it’s quite a normal part of a man’s day. If these involuntary erections suddenly reduce, it’s a good sign that the andropause has started. It can be paired with erectile dysfunction, which is when a man struggles to get an erection when he wants one, which is where it might be a good idea to visit an ED Clinic Pleaseant Grove, or any other clinic elsewhere, to determine what the problem might be. If you think you may be going through andropause, watch out for these common signs:
- Feeling easily irritated or having mood swings
- Feeling tired or having low energy
- Decreased interest in sex
- Difficulty focusing or recalling details
- Less hair growth
- Feeling hot suddenly and sweating
- Sad or depressed
- Reducing the amount of body hair
- Osteoporosis, or weaker bones
- Reduced strength in the muscles
- Breast tissue development (gynecomastia)
Causes of Andropause
- Lifestyle considerations: Adopting unhealthy habits, such as smoking, binge drinking, eating poorly, and not exercising, can have a significant impact on testosterone levels and increase andropause symptoms.
- Chronic illnesses: Diseases like obesity, diabetes, hypertension, and cardiovascular disease affect hormone synthesis, which in turn affects when andropause begins.
- Medicines and treatments: A number of drugs, such as opioids, corticosteroids, and some antidepressants, can interfere with the production of testosterone. Hormone levels might also be affected by cancer therapies like radiation therapy or chemotherapy.
- Psychological considerations: andropause and psychological stress, depression, and anxiety are inversely correlated. Emotional health can influence hormone control, and hormone fluctuations can lead to emotional disorders.
Ways to Improve Andropause Symptoms Through Lifestyle Adjustments:
If you’re dealing with low testosterone, making certain lifestyle changes can help manage symptoms. Here are some simple suggestions:
Handle stress
Find ways to manage stress, whether it’s through meditation, writing in a journal, or other methods. Cut back on caffeine, alcohol, and nicotine, and practice relaxation techniques like deep breathing.
Eat well
Maintain a balanced diet, which is crucial for overall well-being. If you’re feeling down or having trouble sleeping, your diet might play a role. Stay hydrated, eat a variety of fruits and vegetables, and steer clear of processed foods and sugars.
Stay active
Exercise doesn’t have to be intense; even a short walk after meals or a gentle yoga or swimming class can be beneficial for both body and mind.
Be social
Build connections with family and friends. Cook together, join a book club, or take a language class. Stay engaged instead of withdrawing. These small lifestyle changes can have a significant impact on your overall health.
For more health information visit NLM(Natinal Library of Medicine)
Conclusion
Low testosterone levels in elderly men can have a major impact, despite the fact that the topic of andropause continues to be discussed in medicine. The disorder can be particularly difficult to live with because of its mild symptoms, which can significantly affect one’s emotional health.
Getting medical help is essential if you’re concerned about low testosterone levels. Similar to numerous medical conditions, timely action and early discovery can significantly enhance results. It’s critical to use caution when starting testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) and to visit your physician beforehand.There will probably be more males experiencing andropause symptoms as our population ages. As a result, endocrinologists and scientists will keep learning more about the negative effects low testosterone levels have on health, which will eventually result in better ways to treat this illness.
Frequently Asked Questions About Men Andropause
Do males experience menopause?
Andropause is a phase that males experience that is similar to menopause. This is brought on by a slow drop in testosterone levels, which causes a number of symptoms that are comparable to those of menopause in women.
What symptoms could a man experience during menopause?
Male menopause symptoms include decreased libido, hot flashes, exhaustion, depression, decreased muscle mass, decreased strength, and less ejaculation.
What is the duration of menopause in men?
The duration of male menopause, also known as andropause, is normally 15 to 20 years. If treatment is not received, symptoms could last a lifetime since testosterone levels will keep dropping.
Is the process of andropause natural?
“Andropause is a natural process that many men experience as they age,” . It is characterized by a slow drop in testosterone levels and can cause a range of mental and physical problems.
© Ruchie Verma
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