If you thought menopause was something only women had to worry about, think again! While testosterone levels naturally decrease with aging, this dip in hormone levels may indicate an onset of “male menopause.” Male menopause, or andropause, represents a change in testosterone levels and its associated symptoms.
While menopause in women marks a complete hormone plunge and loss of fertility, male menopause tends to be much more gradual. If you’re healthy, you may still be able to produce sperm well into your seventies or even eighties, although subtle changes in testosterone levels can begin occurring in your forties or fifties.
You may experience less-intense versions of the typical symptoms of female menopause (think hot flashes, night sweats and lack of energy), but other symptoms that may indicate a decrease in testosterone include:
- Sexual problems, such as fewer erections, dip in desire or smaller testes
- Sleep disturbances
- Emotional changes, such as depression, poor concentration, nervousness or anxiety.
- Physical changes, such as decreased muscle mass and bone density, an increase in body fat, hair loss and swollen or tender breasts.
You are more at risk to experience male menopause if you are obese or suffer from certain conditions, such as diabetes or cancer, or if your overall health is in tough shape. If you think you may be going through male menopause, talk to your doctor! Together you can discuss treatment options available to you.
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