Andropause or “male menopause” happens when there is a decrease in the production of male testosterone and is common in men between 40-60. Testosterone is the hormone that is produced in the testicles and adrenal glands and performs functions similar to those of estrogens in women.
From the age of 30, testosterone levels begin to decrease by 15%, then at around age 45 the first symptoms of andropause begin to be noticed by most men. By age 50, low levels of testosterone appear in 50% of men. By age 60, it is estimated that more than half of men are impaired by andropause, and by age 70, 70% of adults are very low in testosterone.
The causes of low testosterone are mainly related to aging, but are influenced by other factors that trigger andropause such as stress, alcohol consumption, certain medications, obesity, infections and the elevation of the level of SHBG or “sex hormone binding globulin”
In addition, testosterone helps to form proteins and is primarily responsible for the sexual reproduction of men. Men have different symptoms during andropause and they are easy to recognize:
- Changes in attitude and mood, such as irritability and nervousness
- Fatigue and low energy
- Lack of libido and sexual desire
- Decreased erection, ED or complete impotence
- Premature ejeculation
- Stubborn weight gain, particularly around the waist and belly
- Reduced strength and volume of ejaculation
- Reduced lean muscle mass and muscle definition
- Bone deterioration
- Sensation of heat to the face
- Circulatory problems
- Excessive sweating
- Headaches
- Mental fogginess
- Insomnia
- Depression
- Breast enlargement
- Decreased self-confidence
- Reduced body hair
- Forgetfulness
It is proven that the drop in testosterone levels can represent a risk in the appearance of other health problems in the skeletal or cardiac system. If you suspect that you have andropause or have any of the aforementioned symptoms, you can get an evaluation with the premier Bay Area clinic specializing in andropause and low testosterone, Balanced Medical Solutions. Your initial evaluation will include a medical exam with a specialist and blood tests to measure your testosterone levels as well as your prostate health, CBC, and more. Remember that andropause is not a disease, it is only a transitory period and there ARE things you can do to extend your youthful stamina, rigor, and retain your sexual health.
