Andropause, also known as *male menopause*, is a condition that affects men as they age. It is characterized by a gradual decrease in testosterone levels, which can lead to various symptoms similar to those experienced by women during menopause.
Some key things to know about andropause:
- It typically occurs between the ages of 40 and 55, but can happen earlier or later depending on the individual. The onset is usually gradual over years.
- Main signs and symptoms include:
- Decreased sex drive
- Erectile dysfunction
- Depression or irritability
- Fatigue
- Loss of muscle mass
- Increased body fat
- Reduced bone density
- Hot flashes
- While not a true "pause" like menopause in women, it's called andropause because of some parallel effects from hormone changes.
- Causes stem from age-related testosterone decline, combined with possible thyroid issues or other hormone imbalances.
- Diagnosis involves blood tests to check testosterone and other hormone levels, plus ruling out other conditions.
- Treatment options aim to replace missing testosterone. These can significantly improve symptoms when properly managed:
- Testosterone replacement therapy (gels, injections, patches, pills)
- Lifestyle changes like improved diet, more exercise, stress reduction
In summary, andropause refers to hormone changes that occur in aging males due to lower testosterone and related hormone imbalances. It can cause disruptive symptoms affecting quality of life. Understanding the condition and getting tested can help men explore treatment options suited to managing their individual needs. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle provides important lifelong support as well.
If you are experiencing symptoms of andropause, consider consulting with Revive Wellness for a comprehensive evaluation and personalized treatment plan.