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Male Menopause (Andropause): Overview, Symptoms And Andropause Treatment

Men do not experience a well-defined phase of menopause, but the decline in testosterone or androgen levels in males is commonly referred to as Andropause. In this article, we will discuss the causes, signs, symptoms, and treatment options of this condition

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Male Menopause
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In their late 40s to early 50s, some men may experience physical and emotional symptoms such as depression, decreased and energy drive. Additionally, they may also experience mood swings, irritability, muscle loss, and a reduced ability to exercise. These symptoms are often accompanied by fat redistribution, which may result in the development of a large belly or gynaecomastia, as well as a lack of energy, enthusiasm, and difficulty sleeping. Buy Legal Provacyl Online to Fight Male Menopause

Poor concentration and short-term memory may also occur, which can impact daily life and well-being. Identifying the root cause of these symptoms is crucial to finding effective solutions to improve overall health and happiness.

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Men do not experience a well-defined phase of menopause, but the decline in testosterone or androgen levels in males is commonly referred to as Andropause. In this article, we will discuss the causes, signs, symptoms, and treatment options of this condition . Unlike menopause, which is a universal phenomenon in women and results in complete gonadal failure over time, Andropause (also called male climacteric, androgen, male menopause, androclise decline in aging male or ADAM, delayed onset of hypogonadism or LOH, and aging male syndrome) is characterized by low testosterone levels in older men, or men who have lost testicular function due to illnesses, accidents, or surgical or medical castration caused by advanced prostate cancer. Some health experts believe that the term "male menopause" is misleading since although testosterone levels decrease as men age, the decline is gradual, usually less than 2% per year from age 30 to 40, and will not really cause any issues on its own. However, a testosterone deficiency and late-onset hypogonadism isn’t really a normal part of the aging process.

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The female reproductive cycle ends with menopause, while men experience various symptoms and changes as they age, which some compare to menopause.

Some sources use the term "andropause" to describe this condition, but it is a misleading label, and the exact definition of symptoms, causes, and treatments remains unclear.

Although discussions around "male menopause" or "andropause" date back to the late 1930s, modern researchers suggest that without clear boundaries, the term is not a helpful diagnosis.

However, aging still affects the male body, including a gradual reduction in testosterone levels.

This article examines the impact of aging on hormone levels in men and suggests steps that can be taken to mitigate the effects of aging on men's health.

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Is the “Male Menopause” thing for real?

The term "male menopause" or andropause is sometimes used in the media, but it is misleading. Unlike female menopause, there is no sudden drop in testosterone levels in middle age that causes symptoms. While testosterone levels do decline gradually by about 1% a year after age 30-40, this decline is unlikely to cause problems on its own.

In some cases, symptoms in older men may be due to a testosterone deficiency called late-onset hypogonadism. However, other factors besides hormones may also be responsible for these symptoms. Rather than comparing the process to female menopause, some researchers refer to the symptoms as androgen decline in aging males (ADAM).

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Late-onset hypogonadism is relatively rare, affecting only 2.1% of males, and is associated with lower androgen levels and three symptoms. A diagnosis is typically made when androgen levels fall below 11 nanomoles per liter (nmol).

So, in conclusion, we can term "male menopause" or andropause refers to the decline of male hormone levels due to aging. This group of symptoms is also referred to as testosterone deficiency and androgen deficiency, and late-onset hypogonadism.

When men reach the age of 50 or older, they experience a decline in testosterone production, which can lead to male menopause or hypogonadism. Both conditions have similar symptoms, including decreased testosterone levels.

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Testosterone is a crucial hormone in men that plays a vital role in many functions such as physical energy, muscle mass, fight-or-flight response regulation, and other vital biological features.

Male menopause is certainly quite different from female menopause in several ways. Not all men experience it, and it does not involve a complete shutdown of reproductive organs. However, low hormone levels may lead to male complications.

Personal Issues or Lifestyle Problems

Various factors can contribute to symptoms associated with male menopause. Low energy drive, and mood swings are some of the symptoms that can be attributed to lifestyle factors or psychological problems. These symptoms may be caused by stress, depression, anxiety, or physical causes such as smoking or heart problems, which may occur concurrently with psychological causes.

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Psychological issues may arise from various sources, such as work or relationship problems, financial troubles, or concerns about aging parents. The "midlife crisis" is another possible cause of male menopause. It can occur when men perceive they have reached the halfway mark in life, which may cause anxiety about their achievements in personal or professional life.
The "male menopause" can also stem from lack of sleep, a poor diet, lack of exercise, excessive alcohol consumption, smoking, or low self-esteem.

Delayed onset of Hypogonadism

Sometimes, the symptoms of the so-called "male menopause" may not be related to lifestyle or psychological factors, but rather to hypogonadism. In this condition, the testes produce insufficient or no hormones, which can result in symptoms like delayed puberty and small testes, among others. Although hypogonadism can be present from birth, it can also occur later in life, particularly in men with obesity or type 2 diabetes. This condition is known as late-onset hypogonadism and can cause symptoms similar to those of the "male menopause". However, it is a rare medical condition that is not a normal part of the ageing process. Diagnosis of late-onset hypogonadism usually involves evaluating your symptoms and measuring your testosterone levels through blood tests.

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Understanding the Symptoms of Male Menopause (Andropause)

The decline in estrogen and progesterone in women during menopause is sudden and significant. In comparison, the symptoms associated with the male version of menopause, often referred to as andropause, develop more gradually and are generally less severe.

While there is a decline in testosterone levels in men, it is not as severe as the hormonal changes that occur during menopause in women. Symptoms commonly associated with male menopause include hot flashes, irritability, increased fat around the chest and abdomen, muscle loss, thinning skin, and excessive sweating. A study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that the most known symptoms of the male menopause condition are a decrease in energy and the issue ED.

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Other symptoms may include a lack of energy, difficulty walking more than a kilometer or completing strenuous tasks such as lifting heavy objects, and decreased mobility when kneeling, bending, or stooping. Additionally, the changes in male hormone levels can lead to depression and fatigue.

Understanding the Causes of Male Menopause (Andropause)

As men age, testosterone levels tend to decrease by approximately one percent each year after reaching 30 years of age. However, doctors don't believe that the age-related decline in testosterone levels is the sole cause of male menopause symptoms. While it's true that testosterone levels tend to decrease in older men, this condition is complex and can vary among individuals. The symptoms of male menopause tend to occur in older men with heart disease, obesity, high blood pressure, and type 2 diabetes, suggesting that factors beyond changes in male hormone levels contribute to this condition.

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Risk factors for male menopause include various lifestyle factors and underlying health problems, such as lack of exercise, smoking, alcohol consumption, stress, anxiety, and sleep deprivation.

Additionally, some men may experience a "mid-life crisis," which can lead to concerns about professional and personal accomplishments, triggering depression and other factors that can result in the physical symptoms of male menopause.

Hypogonadism, a condition in which the testes do not produce enough hormones, can lead to delayed puberty in younger males. If this condition develops at an older age, possibly linked to obesity or type 2 diabetes, it may contribute to the symptoms of male menopause.

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Changes that occur in Testosterone levels as body ages

During puberty, testosterone levels in males rise, leading to changes such as increased muscle mass, body hair growth, and a deeper voice. Testosterone is responsible for these and other typical male puberty characteristics.

As men age, their testosterone levels usually decrease. Research suggests that testosterone levels tend to drop about 1 percent per year after the age of 30. However, certain health conditions may cause a more significant or earlier decrease in testosterone levels.

Diagnosis of Male Menopause

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A particular research suggests that the medicalization of male menopause was not the outcome of scientific investigation but rather a model perpetuated by lay people and medical popularizers.

A healthcare practitioner is not likely to diagnose male menopause as it denotes a cluster of symptoms that lacks a clear consensus. These symptoms may arise from various lifestyle aspects or pre-existing medical conditions.

Treatment of Male Menopause (Andropause)

As the symptoms of the male menopause are unclear, treatments for this condition will depend on the symptoms experienced by each individual.
If an individual is obese, they may receive support for weight management, exercise, and nutrition to manage their condition. Dietary management may also help to reduce the effects of aging in men.

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People with diabetes or cardiovascular disease will require appropriate management for their underlying conditions, such as controlling blood glucose levels to reduce symptoms.

For individuals with symptom such as fatigue, doctors may carry out a detailed check-up to detect any underlying cardiovascular disease, using blood tests and scans.

In cases of depression or anxiety, referral to a psychologist or psychiatrist may be necessary, who may prescribe antidepressants, psychotherapy, or a combination of both.

Testosterone therapy may be recommended by a doctor, but its effectiveness is uncertain, and it may increase the risk of developing prostate cancer, blockages in the urinary tract, and aggravation of conditions such as ischemic heart disease, epilepsy, and sleep apnea.

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Supplements claiming to support male menopause are not advised and may increase the risk of developing prostate cancer and cardiovascular issues. Consult with a doctor for advice on managing symptoms related to aging and age-related diseases.

What else on can do?

If you notice any of these signs, it's best to visit your GP. They may inquire about your professional and personal circumstances to determine if your symptoms are linked to mental health concerns, such as anxiety or stress.

Medication or conversational therapies, like cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), may be useful if anxiety or stress is impacting you. Physical activity and relaxation may also be beneficial.

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To learn more, you may want to check out the following resources:
●    Stress management techniques
●    Treatment options for anxiety
●    Assistance for low mood and depression
●    Exercise as a means of coping with depression
●    Breathing exercises for reducing stress.

Will you need a Hormone replacement therapy?

Your medical practitioner may request a blood sample to check your testosterone levels.

If the outcomes indicate that you have a testosterone deficiency, your healthcare provider may refer you to an endocrinologist, a doctor who specializes in treating hormonal issues.

If the specialist confirms the diagnosis of low testosterone, they may propose testosterone replacement therapy, which can alleviate your symptoms by correcting the hormone deficiency.

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The therapy can be delivered through injections or gel application.

The Conclusion: Male Menopause (Andropause)

There is currently limited evidence to formally classify "male menopause" as a recognized medical condition. Nonetheless, ADAM (Androgen Deficiency in the Aging Male) is a deficiency of testosterone which may display comparable symptoms. Symptoms of low testosterone can vary among individuals and may be complex.

Medical professionals do not generally diagnose "male menopause". Nevertheless, a balanced diet, routine physical activity, and limited consumption of tobacco and alcohol can improve overall health and alleviate physical symptoms associated with aging in males. In addition, treating any underlying health conditions may also minimize the effects of ADAM.

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As men age, it is common to experience a decrease in testosterone levels , which may lead to symptoms. However, many men can manage their symptoms without any treatment. If you are having difficulty coping with your symptoms, it is advisable to consult a doctor who can offer guidance on how to manage or treat them.

Disclaimer: The above is a sponsored post, the views expressed are those of the sponsor/author and do not represent the stand and views of Outlook Editorial.
 

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