Andropause
Andropause is a condition that affects men as they age, similar to menopause in women. It is sometimes called male menopause or partial androgen deficiency of the aging male (PADAM).
The key signs and symptoms of andropause include:
- Declining testosterone levels - This leads to many of the other effects of andropause. Testosterone levels peak in most men around age 30 and steadily decline after that, about 1-2% per year.
- Fatigue and low energy - Lower testosterone is associated with feeling tired, sluggish, and lacking motivation.
- Decreased muscle mass and strength - Testosterone helps build and maintain muscle mass. As levels decline, men may lose muscle tone and experience declines in strength.
- Increased body fat - Particularly around the abdomen. Lost muscle mass often leads to increases in body fat.
- Reduced libido and sexual function - Lower testosterone reduces sex drive and can cause issues like erectile dysfunction.
- Depression and irritability - Some men with andropause report effects on mood such as sadness, depression, or increased irritability.
- Loss of body hair - Some men notice thinner body hair and hair loss during andropause.
- Reduced bone density - Testosterone plays a role in bone health. Declining levels can lead to osteoporosis.
- Hot flashes and night sweats - Lower testosterone causes symptoms reminiscent of female menopause.
The causes of andropause include:
- Aging - Testosterone levels rise until around age 30, then decline. Andropause symptoms often appear in the 40s to 60s.
- Genetics - Andropause timing and effects can run in families.
- Obesity - Being overweight is linked to lower testosterone.
- Chronic illness - Certain diseases are associated with andropause.
Treatments can help manage symptoms. They include testosterone replacement therapy via injections, gels, or patches. Lifestyle changes like eating healthy, exercising, and reducing stress may help increase natural testosterone production.
In summary, andropause refers to age-related testosterone decline in men leading to symptoms like fatigue, reduced libido, and muscle loss. It affects many men, but treatments like testosterone therapy or lifestyle changes can help manage effects.