• Understanding Male Menopause

    Male Menopause

    When most people think of the word menopause, they associate this word with women, but this condition affects men also. Male menopause, or as some people call it, “mano-pause”, is very prevalent in some men as they age. Men may suffer some of the same symptoms as women but male menopause is not as well-defined. Some doctors describe this condition as being an androgen decline or andropause.

    What is Male Menopause?

    Andropause, another word for male menopause, is a reduction in the male hormone known as testosterone. A man’s testosterone level will reach its peak during his earlier adulthood. The testosterone level begins to decrease over the years. Not like in women, were hormone levels can disappear completely, the decline in men is a slow process because testes will not run out of the elements needed to produce testosterone. As a result of this some doctors will describe this condition as androgen testosterone which decreases during male aging. Some diseases such as type 2 diabetes may also have an effect on testosterone decline.

    Symptoms of Male Menopause

    As a result of the decline in their testosterone level, a significant amount of men have symptoms such as weakness, depression, fatigue and mood changes. There may be a rise in fat mass, and a reduced amount of muscle mass and strength. Impaired mobility and lack of endurance may also occur. Men who have a significant problem with testosterone loss or known as hypogonadism have a continuing decrease in muscle mass, a lack of energy and a very low sense of self- worth. A declining sex drive and weight gain around the abdomen may also come from having low testosterone.

    Male Menopause Treatment

    Once men consult a physician about these conditions, a physical should be conducted. A variety of tests should occur to determine if other medical problems may be the reasons for the conditions. Blood tests should be ordered to determine testosterone level. Treatment can consist of intramascular shots, a testosterone patch that is placed on the body or the scrotum. A testosterone gel, a material known as mucoadhesive that is placed on the gums, oral tablets or a testosterone stick that is applied under the under arms. A physician may also recommend a few life style changes to assist with symptoms like a diet, exercise regimen or medications for depression. These treatments have been known to add a boost to the libido, help to sustain an erection, increase bone mineral density, strengthen the dominant muscles, assist with lean body mass, reduce fat mass and help to show an improvement in mood swings and increase energy.