Hormonal changes naturally accompany the process of aging. In women, such a plunge in the hormonal levels past a certain age refers to menopause. Similarly, men have andropause, which is a collection of symptoms experienced by older men due to a decline in testosterone levels, diet, or concurrent illnesses. Andropause is also called male menopause.
What is the Difference Between Menopause and Andropause?
Andropause typically refers to the decreasing levels of testosterone in men due to progressing age. The terms menopause and andropause, although fundamentally referring to decreasing hormone levels, are widely different. During menopause, women stop ovulating, and this results in stopping of the menstrual cycle. This phase in the life of a woman is particularly distinctive and clear. However, with andropause, the production of testosterone and other hormones declines gradually over a period of many years. Aging-related changes in men are also sometimes called testosterone deficiency syndrome and androgen deficiency.
How Can one Identify Decreasing Testosterone Levels?
The testosterone levels in men can vary. According to the studies conducted in this area, testosterone levels begin decreasing gradually at the rate of 1% per year after the age of 30. There are several ways of diagnosing a reduction in testosterone levels. The most common way to diagnose a reduced testosterone level is a blood test. Some symptoms of low testosterone levels include:
- Sleep changes: Sleep changes like insomnia or disturbed sleep may indicate lower testosterone levels. Excessive drowsiness is also a symptom.
- Physical changes: Physical changes like rapid weight gain, tenderness in the breasts, and loss of body hair or excessive hair fall may hint at a reduction in the testosterone levels. Sometimes, an individual may experience hot flashes as well.
- Changes in sexual functioning: These include reduced sexual desire and erectile dysfunction.
- Emotional changes: Decreased motivation level, difficulty concentrating, mood swings, temporary bouts of sadness, or depression can also occur due to reduced testosterone levels.
How can Such Changes be Overcome?
Although it may be impossible to boost the testosterone level due to andropause, following a healthy lifestyle can prove to be very helpful. Eating a healthy diet along with regular exercising will help in dealing with the physical changes and emotional changes. Do not shy away from seeking help. You can engage in an interactive session with your doctor to treat any underlying health conditions, which may be contributing to your symptoms. For mood changes, you can seek help from a professional counselor and try to talk it out with your partner.
Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy
A relatively new form of intervention regarding andropause is testosterone therapy, also called bioidentical hormone replacement therapy. What exactly is bioidentical hormone replacement therapy?
For many people, a normal decline in hormones normally occurs after the age of 35. This hormonal decline results in several bodily changes and health issues. Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy is a natural approach to solving the problems caused due to hormonal imbalance. Bioidentical hormones are synthetic hormones that imitate the chemical makeup of the body’s natural hormones. Using these hormones reduces the symptoms associated with andropause. SDBody specializes in hormone replacement therapy, helping you reduce your symptoms and live a normal life.
There are many forms of bioidentical hormones which include injections, patches, or pills of natural hormones. Based on your requirements and preferences, the dose and duration of the therapy are decided. The hormone replacement therapy has very few side effects and quick results that are noticeable within a few days of therapy. The therapy is closely monitored by the doctor and may be discontinued after a short duration. Learn about more topics like this.