Andropause,
otherwise known as male menopause, is that stage in a man’s life where he
experiences the effects of aging along with the signs and symptoms related to
the reduction in the production of testosterone. This is common among men aged
between 45 and 65 years old, although there are those that go through this in
their early 30s.
Symptoms
Andropause
have various effects on the physical, emotional, and wellbeing of a man. Their most
common concern is associated with sexual disturbance. Men who undergo this
condition suffer from erectile dysfunction and decreased libido as an effect of
the reduced levels of testosterone in their bodies.
Aside
from these, it can also cause a decrease in the bone density as well as the
muscle mass and strength. Sweating, hot flashes, and fatigue are also very
common along with impaired memory, difficulties in concentration, and sleep
disturbances. Its emotional effects are bought about by changes in the body and
mind, leading to irritability, anxiety, depression, and mood swings.
Effects
Andropause
is generally not life-threatening. The problem with this condition is that is
can be very bothersome for many men. Also, it can open up the body to
conditions that are potentially very dangerous to the health. This is, however,
very rare as many men do not exactly experience all the symptoms to a large
degree.
Still,
it is not wrong to assume that this condition does have an effect on the quality
of life of any man going through it. Its effects on sexual function,
appearance, and emotional wellbeing are apparent. if these problems are
ignored, they have a potential to get worse and can result in a variety of
conditions such as diabetes, memory loss, anxiety, hair loss, and infertility,
to name a few.
Recent
studies have shown strong evidence on the relationship of low testosterone
levels to the many forms of dementia, particularly Alzheimer’s disease.
Middle-aged men that suffer from depression have also shown a strong link with
that of low testosterone.
Management
Andropause
is not exactly considered a medical
condition today so there are no medications specifically formulated for it.
There are, however, treatments that can somehow neutralize the symptoms that this
condition brings about. Such treatments are actually only specific to one or
two of its conditions. An approach that will treat all symptoms is testosterone
replacement therapy but this is only prescribed to patients that suffer from
too severe conditions.
There
is actually no escape; a man should go through it. The best thing that he can
do is to prepare for it by leading a healthy lifestyle early on. A positive
attitude will also be a big help as this gives way to get a clearer view of the
situation and have a clear perspective of it. It will also help to have a
strong support system. The presence of family, friends, and spouses will be a
big help during those times that the man does not feel at his best.
Resource
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Amy
C. is a health enthusiast who tackles the most common issues that are related
to the upkeep of the wellbeing of the human. She particularly tackles on the
medical conditions that are specific on men and women. When she is not giving health
advices and tips, she helps in the blogging and administration
activities of DMac Industries, a b deck and steel
deck fabrication company. Watch out for her other health advices on her
next post.
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