UNDERSTANDING THE MALE MENOPAUSE

How to Understand Male Menopause

Women may not be alone when it comes to suffering from menopause-like symptoms, and the medical community is now debating the emergence of what is being referred to as male menopause. You can learn how to understand male menopause by reviewing its time frame, its symptoms and its treatment options to determine if you might need to consult your physician for help for you or a loved one.

Reported Cause of Male Menopause

Doctors describe male menopause as a reduction in androgen, also known as testosterone, as men get older. This condition is also referred to as low testosterone. Low testosterone is associated with advanced age, but it can also occur with some diseases such as diabetes. Most men can produce sperm very late in life, so male menopause is a much more gradual process than female menopause, which occurs over a distinct, much briefer time period.

SYMPTOMS OF MALE MENOPAUSE

Males going through male menopause report feelings of weakness, depression, fatigue and sexual issues. In regards to sexual function, your testes may appear smaller, you may have a reduced amount of sexual desire, infertility and/or you may experience fewer spontaneous erections like those that occur in the middle of the night. The low testosterone levels affiliated with male menopause can sometimes cause insomnia.

Physical changes affiliated with male menopause can include a reduction in muscle bulk, decreased bone density and increased body fat as symptoms. Those affected may have swollen or tender breasts and/or experience hair loss. Hot flashes and loss of energy have also been described with male menopause.

Emotional changes that may occur with male menopause can include decreased motivation and/or self-confidence. Sadness, depression and loss of concentration may also occur.

POTENTIAL DIAGNOSIS

Visit your doctor to discuss symptoms and get an exam. Your doctor may run other tests to rule out any other conditions. Specific to the male menopause, your doctor can order blood tests to test your hormone level, including a blood testosterone level test.

TREATMENT

If your doctor determines that your testosterone levels are low, he or she may prescribe testosterone replacement therapy.

Testosterone replacement therapy does come with potential risks and side effects, though, including a higher risk of prostate cancer.

Alternately, your doctor may suggest lifestyle changes instead of, or in conjunction with, your hormone replacement therapy. These lifestyle changes may include an exercise program or a new diet.

TIPS

"Andropause" is another word that has been used synonymously with male menopause. Other terms to describe it include androgen deficiency of the aging male, testosterone deficiency and late-onset hypogonadism.

WARNINGS

The signs and symptoms described may be a result of other conditions such as a thyroid disorder, depression or excessive alcohol use, so consult a doctor for a formal diagnosis.