
The term “male menopause” is often used to describe a decline in testosterone levels in men as they age. However, there is no clear consensus among experts about whether male menopause actually exists.
Dr Naveed Younis, consultant endocrinologist and general physician at Spire Regency Hospital, tells Yahoo UK that the term “male menopause” is misleading because, in men, testosterone levels “gradually decrease” rather than suddenly dropping. On the other hand, women experience a big drop in estrogen, which causes most of the symptoms of menopause.
Some experts believe that male menopause is a real condition, while others believe that it is simply a natural part of aging. There is no scientific evidence to support the existence of male menopause, but there is evidence to show that testosterone levels do decline in men as they age.
“This is clinically referred to as andropause or androgen deficiency in the ageing male (ADAM),” he explains. “Andropause symptoms usually take around 20 years to start showing. Although testosterone levels drop by about 1% per year from around age 30, signs of andropause donβt usually begin until the late 40s and early 50s.”
Testosterone is a hormone that plays a role in many aspects of male health, including sexual function, muscle mass, and bone density. As testosterone levels decline, men may experience a range of symptoms, including:
- Decreased sex drive
- Erectile dysfunction
- Fatigue
- Loss of muscle mass
- Weight gain
- Mood swings
- Difficulty sleeping
- Difficulty concentrating
- Decreased bone density
It is important to note that these symptoms can also be caused by other factors, such as stress, depression, and medical conditions. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to see a doctor to rule out any underlying medical conditions.
Treatment for andropause
There is no one-size-fits-all treatment for andropause. However, there are a number of things that men can do to manage the symptoms, such as:
- Eating a healthy diet
- Exercising regularly
- Getting enough sleep
- Managing stress
- Seeking professional help for depression or anxiety
- Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT)
TRT is a medication that can be used to boost testosterone levels. However, TRT is not without risks. It can increase the risk of side effects such as heart disease, stroke, and prostate cancer. TRT should only be used under the supervision of a doctor.
Be the first to comment