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The term "male menopause" can be misleading because it implies that symptoms are caused by a sudden drop in testosterone, similar to female menopause caused by a loss of estrogen.
However, this is not the case, as testosterone levels decline gradually, by less than 2 percent a year from the age of 40 onwards.
Causes of Andropause
This gradual decline allows the body to adjust to the changes and is unlikely to cause significant problems later in life.
Andropause, or male menopause, is thought to be caused by lifestyle or psychological factors, rather than a lack of testosterone levels. For example, stress, anxiety, poor diet, and lack of exercise can all contribute to symptoms such as loss of libido and mood swings.
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Despite this, more and more men are seeking medical help for the "manopause" and are being prescribed testosterone treatments, such as injections and gels. However, this may not be necessary, as these men may not have a lack of testosterone. While testosterone deficiency can occur due to various conditions, such as obesity or pituitary gland disease, this is different from the gradual decline in testosterone levels associated with male menopause.
Life brings challenges for everyone, especially as we age, and these cannot be fixed with just a hormone prescription. Relationship worries, concerns about aging relatives, and workplace issues are all part of the normal human experience, and it's important to address these underlying issues rather than simply seeking a quick fix.
Symptoms of male menopause
It's important to recognize that there are two distinct conditions - male menopause and late-onset hypogonadism - though there may be some overlap between the two.
Male menopause can cause symptoms such as depression, sexual dysfunction, mood swings, irritability, loss of muscle mass, increased belly fat, breast swelling, lack of enthusiasm, difficulty sleeping, and poor concentration, which can significantly disrupt daily life. It is crucial to identify the underlying causes of these symptoms and address them appropriately.
Late-onset hypogonadism
Late-onset hypogonadism is a condition that often occurs in men in their 50s, especially in those who are obese or have diabetes. If lifestyle and psychological factors have been ruled out as the cause of male menopause symptoms, it's possible that the testes are not producing enough hormones.
This is a rare condition and is not a normal part of the aging process. Diagnosis of late-onset hypogonadism is based on the symptoms and testosterone levels in the body.
Suggested treatment
Your doctor may suggest lifestyle changes to alleviate some of the symptoms. Men can also make changes at home to promote a healthy lifestyle, such as laughing, spending time alone, and socializing with friends.
Mental well-being plays a significant role in testosterone levels, so addressing issues like poor sleep, excessive alcohol consumption, smoking, and low self-esteem is essential in managing the symptoms. It's essential to understand that a lack of testosterone may not be the sole cause of these symptoms.
If you experience symptoms, seeking advice from a healthcare professional is crucial, and a holistic approach should be taken. Hormone replacement therapy may not be the only solution to this complex issue.
