Male Menopause: Facts, Symptoms, Treatment Options
Posted: March 29, 2019
Like women, men may experience a significant hormonal change in middle age. Unlike women, not every man goes through this hormonal change, but many do. Sometimes colloquially called “male menopause,” andropause refers to a drop in testosterone levels that can lead to symptoms such as fatigue and erectile dysfunction. A men’s wellness clinic may be able to determine whether these symptoms are caused by low testosterone or if something else is to blame.
Other names for the condition include late-onset hypogonadism or androgen deficiency. The cluster of symptoms and their cause is not a prescribed medical condition in the way that menopause is, but it is real and can be diagnosed and effectively treated in a number of ways.
Symptoms of Andropause
Low testosterone is a condition that may develop gradually, over a period of years. This is another way in which it differs from menopause. This gradual onset also means that sometimes it can be difficult to recognize symptoms. However, in addition to those mentioned above, they include depression, low libido, insomnia and reduced muscle mass.
Low testosterone can be part of a vicious cycle in which abdominal fat increases because of a lack of testosterone. The fat tissue contains an enzyme that converts testosterone to estrogen, the testosterone level continues to drop, and the abdominal fat continues to grow. A lack of testosterone can also reduce bone density and result in brittle bones and osteoporosis. Some men may first discover they have low testosterone when they suffer a fracture.
Any of these symptoms are a signal that a men’s health assessment is needed to determine whether low testosterone or another underlying condition is causing them. If you are experiencing any of the mentioned symptoms, contact your local men’s wellness clinic for a wellness evaluation.
Diagnosis and Treatment for Andropause
Blood tests determine whether a man is suffering from low testosterone. A men’s health clinic can develop a treatment plan for andropause. The plan depends in part on the severity of the situation. There are certain lifestyle changes that help keep testosterone levels higher. These include getting plenty of exercise, avoiding smoking, staying at a healthy weight and eating healthily.
Another option is medication that can increase the production of testosterone. In some cases, testosterone replacement therapy at a men’s wellness clinic may be a suggested treatment.
Low T Center can test for low testosterone and treat it along with other conditions, such as sleep apnea and hypothyroidism, that can cause similar symptoms. Contact Low T Center to find out more about the services available or book an appointment online today!
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Disclaimer: This article is made available for general, entertainment and educational purposes only. The opinions expressed herein do not necessarily reflect those of Low T Center. You should always seek the advice of a licensed healthcare professional.