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ANDROPAUSE

What Is Andropause?

Andropause is considered the male equivalent of menopause in women. It refers to an age-related decline in male hormone levels and is sometimes called testosterone deficiency or androgen deficiency. The decrease in hormones and onset of symptoms in men, however, can be slower or more subtle.   Testosterone is the primary male hormone; it gives men deep voices, muscle mass, and male facial and body hair patterns. As men get older, the level of testosterone gradually decreases — about 1% per year from age 30 onward. While this is normal, you may start experiencing physical and psychological symptoms from low testosterone levels beginning in your 50s.

Andropause Symptoms

Like menopause, andropause can have a variety of symptoms, and not all men will experience the same problems. While some men may not experience any andropause symptoms, others may experience:

  • Low sex drive
  • Lack of energy
  • Increased body fat
  • Sadness or depression
  • Erectile dysfunction
  • Irritability and mood swings
  • Loss of body hair
  • Trouble concentrating
  • Lack of motivation, decrease in self-confidence
  • Sleep disturbances — insomnia or increased sleepiness
  • Hot flashes (Yes, men can get these too!)
  • Loss of strength or muscle mass

Low hormone levels may raise your risk for other health conditions, such as osteoporosis (brittle bones) or heart disease.

Causes of Andropause Symptoms

Andropause is not a disease, but rather, a natural aging process. A decrease in testosterone production can be a major cause of andropause, but other hormones may also play a role. Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) is a steroid hormone that your body makes and turns into sex hormones, including testosterone. Your DHEA levels decline naturally, starting at about age 30. Also, as you age, your level of sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) begins to increase. SHBG deactivates some of the testosterone circulating in your blood, lowering your level of usable — bioavailable — testosterone.  Men who suffer from andropause symptoms typically have less bioavailable testosterone in their blood. This means there may not be enough to adequately supply the cells and tissues throughout the body.

Diagnosis

If you have symptoms that suggest andropause, discuss them with your doctor. There is a blood test that measures the level of bioavailable testosterone in your blood.  Some of the symptoms of andropause can also be caused by other factors, including medication side effects, thyroid problems, depression, diabetes, high blood pressure, and excessive alcohol use. Underlying conditions, such as obstructive sleep apnea, may affect testosterone levels in men. If these conditions are identified and addressed, your testosterone may return to a therapeutic level on its own.

Andropause Therapies

Testosterone levels vary greatly among individuals. Some men have a lower-than-normal testosterone level without signs or symptoms. In this case, therapy may not be necessary. However, if you are having uncomfortable symptoms of andropause, your doctor may prescribe medications to replace the hormones you are lacking. Testosterone replacement is the most common therapy and may provide relief from your symptoms. Your doctor will help you decide if testosterone replacement therapy is right for you.  Testosterone replacement therapy may be accompanied by the addition of pregnenolone, DHEA, aromatase inhibitors, and other supplements.  In addition, making simple lifestyle changes, like quitting smoking, exercising regularly, and reducing stress, can help support your overall wellness.

Common Dosage Forms of Testosterone Replacement Therapy

At Restored Health and Beauty, Karla Hammonds, MSN, APRN uses a variety of dosage and forms to suit specific conditions and individual patient preferences. These include:

  • Troches
  • Transdermal Cream
  • Pellet Implants
  • Injections

Call 423-682-0890 to schedule a consultation.