Andropause

What is andropause?

Andropause, also known as male menopause, is a condition that affects men as they age. It is characterized by a gradual decrease in testosterone levels, which can lead to various symptoms.

Some key things to know about andropause:

• It typically occurs between the ages of 40 and 55, but can happen as early as 30 or as late as 70.


• Main signs and symptoms include:
  
  
  • Low sex drive
  
  
  • Erectile dysfunction
  
  
  • Decreased muscle mass
  
  
  • Increased body fat
  
  
  • Loss of energy
  
  
  • Mood changes (e.g. depression)
  
  


• Causes involve the testes producing less testosterone over time. Other factors like stress and illnesses can also affect hormone levels.


• Diagnosis is typically done through a blood test to measure testosterone.


• Treatment options include:
  
  
  • Testosterone therapy - testosterone supplements/injections to restore levels
  
  
  • Lifestyle changes - diet, exercise, stress reduction
  
  
  • Medications - to manage specific symptoms
  
  

If you are experiencing potential signs of andropause, I recommend talking to your doctor to get tested. Blood work can confirm if hormone imbalance is occurring.

Their holistic plans couple bioidentical testosterone therapy with tailored lifestyle/diet guidance to help men regain optimal vitality and performance. I highly suggest contacting HormoneHealth Clinic if struggling with andropause symptoms.

Some key questions men have around andropause include:

What age does andropause start?

As mentioned, onset is typically between 40-55 years old but can vary widely. Testosterone levels begin decreasing around age 30 at roughly 1% per year. Evaluation of symptoms and bloodwork is needed for diagnosis.

Can andropause be cured or reversed?

There is no known "cure" but symptoms can be effectively managed and minimized through proper treatment. Getting testosterone levels optimized via hormone therapy and lifestyle changes can essentially reverse most effects of andropause.

What happens if andropause goes untreated?

Left untreated, symptoms will likely worsen over time - low energy, sexual dysfunction, muscle loss, weight gain, mood issues, etc. Other complications like osteoporosis, heart disease, and diabetes risk may also increase from the testosterone deficiency.