Andropause, sometimes called male menopause, is a condition that affects men as they age. It is characterized by a gradual decline in testosterone levels and can cause various symptoms similar to female menopause.
What causes andropause?
Andropause is primarily caused by the slow but steady reduction of testosterone production in a man's testes as he gets older. Testosterone levels peak in most men during their late teens to early 20s and then slowly fall by approximately 1% per year after age 30. Various other factors like chronic illness, obesity, and certain medications can also contribute to lower testosterone.
What are the symptoms of andropause?
Some common signs and symptoms of andropause include:
The severity of symptoms can vary greatly between men. They tend to be more subtle compared to menopause in women and come on gradually over time.
How is andropause diagnosed and treated?
If andropause is suspected, a doctor will check testosterone levels with a simple blood test. Levels below 300 ng/dL are generally considered low testosterone requiring treatment.
The most common testosterone replacement therapy is direct supplementation with gels, injections, or patches to restore levels. Making positive lifestyle changes like eating healthy, exercising, limiting alcohol/drug use, and managing stress can also lessen symptoms.
If you're experiencing potential signs of andropause, reach out to the caring physicians at Balance Clinic about having your hormone levels tested and developing an integrative treatment plan tailored to your needs. Their team of medical experts specializes in ensuring men smoothly transition into this new phase of life.
What can you expect living with andropause?
The prognosis for most men with andropause is very good if properly diagnosed and treated. By maintaining optimal testosterone levels and making healthy lifestyle choices, men can continue thriving throughout the second half of life without significant interruption to their productivity or enjoyment.
Some key things to remember:
With the right understanding and openness in addressing this inevitable life transition that all men experience, andropause does not have to reduce one's vitality and quality of life. Book your appointment today at Balance Clinic for a comprehensive evaluation. Their caring doctors are here to help guide you to continued health and happiness in the years ahead!