According to Dr. Harita Mannem, Fertility Consultant Nova, IVF FertilityThe symptoms of andropause are defined as a syndrome associated with decreased sexual satisfaction or a feeling of declining well-being, usually with low levels of testosterone as we age. However, it is completely different as compared to the menopause that occurs in women. There are many differences between the andropause of men and the menopause of women.
About 30% of men by the age of 50 experience these symptoms due to low levels of testosterone. Menopause causes the withdrawal of ovulation in women, while it happens for a short time in men. However, the level of testosterone and the level of hormone production gradually decrease and increase over time.
How is andropause different from menopause?
In this, the reproductive organs are not completely eliminated. Men still produce sperm after this and, unlike women, they still have fertility. It is a common fact that menopause is generally regarded as the end of women’s biological clock. Although andropause is generally believed to cause impotence or erectile dysfunction, the truth is that andropause does not impair a person’s ability to reproduce.
what is testosterone
What is Testosterone? This is a hormone produced in the testicles of men. It does more than just enhance your sexuality. It nurtures changes in puberty, mental and physical energy, maintenance of muscle mass, regulation of the fight or give up response, and other key biochemical characteristics. Once the age of 30 is passed, testosterone levels will gradually decrease by about 1% each year.
cause of low testosterone
Male menopause is characterized by a decrease in testosterone production in men over the age of 50. Decreases in testosterone levels vary and are associated with chronic diseases, such as obesity, diabetes, kidney disease, HIV, severe emotional stress, and medications (corticosteroids, cimetidine, spironolactone, digoxin, opioid analgesics, effects of antidepressants and antifungal agents).
Symptoms of Andropause
1. Accumulation of body fat
2. Sexual Dysfunction
3. Low Libido (Low Sex Drive)
4. Insomnia or disruption of sleep patterns
5. Skin thinning
6. Skin dryness
7. Irritability and Mood Swings
8. Depression
9. Insufficient Energy
10. Heat Flashes
11. Decrease in Muscle Mass
12. Decreased concentration ability
13. Hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating)
Do not ignore the symptoms of andropause
One or more of these symptoms should be associated with low serum testosterone levels (testosterone levels less than 11 nmol/l and 220 pmol/l). It is important to know that the symptoms of andropause vary from person to person. Because of this it goes undetected and many times it is not treated. Testosterone is extremely important and promising given the link between androgen deficiency and osteoporosis, cognitive impairment, metabolic disturbances, and sexual life.
Andropause treatment
Replacing testosterone in the blood is the most common treatment in men going through andropause. Testosterone is available in many forms, such as skin patches, capsules, gels and injections. Your doctor will help you decide which treatment is best for you and take your lifestyle into account when making the decision. Considering some contraindications to starting this treatment, it should always be done under the supervision of a doctor. These treatments can relieve symptoms and in many cases improve quality of life.
Disclaimer: This article is for general information only. It cannot in any way be a substitute for any medicine or treatment. Always contact your doctor for more details.