Andropause : Causes, Symptoms and Treatment

Andropause is an age-related problem that states a reduction of testosterone in males. Testosterone production drops in males after the age of 50. It is also known as hypogonadism because both conditions have the same issues of lowered testosterone. This condition does not shut down your reproductive organs but can cause sexual problems.

Your testosterone levels are low before you hit puberty. As you age sexually, the levels increase. Testosterone is the hormone that governs the various stages of male puberty. The causes of andropause are:

Andropause, or male menopause, occurs due to:

• Ageing: Testosterone production declines with age, typically starting around 30.
• Hormonal changes: Decreased testosterone, alongside alterations in other hormones like LH and FSH, contributes to andropause.
• Lifestyle: Factors such as poor diet, lack of exercise, stress, substance abuse, and smoking can worsen symptoms.
• Chronic conditions: Obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and sleep apnea can prepone andropause symptoms.
• Genetics: Family history may influence the timing and severity of andropause.
• Psychological factors: Depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem can impact hormone levels and worsen symptoms.

Your testosterone levels will normally decrease as you age. Testosterone levels drop by an average of 1% per year when you reach the age of 30. Some health issues can cause testosterone levels to drop early or more significantly.

Male menopause can lead to many physical, psychological, and sexual problems. They tend to become worse as you grow old. The symptoms of andropause are:

• Decreased energy, hopelessness, or sadness.
• Decreased motivation.
• Low self-esteem, concentration issues, sleeplessness, or difficulties sleeping.
• Increased body fat.
• Decreased muscular mass and symptoms of physical weakness.
• Decreased bone density.
• Infertility

It is possible to experience pain in the chest area and swelling of the testicles, along with hair loss and hot flashes, due to low testosterone levels during andropause. These low levels have also been associated with osteoporosis, a condition in which bones become fragile. However, it’s important to note that these symptoms are relatively rare.

If you have the above symptoms, you can consult a doctor. They will run blood tests and check your testosterone level. Unless you are suffering from severe problems associated with andropause, you can manage the symptoms without treatment. The biggest problem arises when you don’t give correct information about how and what you are feeling. Many men become shy about discussing these factors with doctors. So, to get treated the right way, you have to be transparent about all your symptoms. To manage the symptoms by yourself, you can start by eating healthy food. But if you consult a doctor for andropause treatment, they can advise you to:

• Eat healthy food.
• Do exercise regularly.
• Get a good amount of sleep.
• Try to reduce stress.

These habits can bring positive changes to your health, which will make the management of andropause easier. There is also a treatment option called hormone replacement therapy, but doctors suggest this only in cases of severe conditions. There are several options available, such as transdermal gel, nasal gel, capsules, and some testosterone injections to help manage the symptoms.