Are You Suffering From More than One Male Menopause Symptom?
Male menopause refers to the symptoms that occur in men from age-related declines in hormones specifically testosterone and other androgens. It is sometimes called menopause or low testosterone. Most men will suffer from more than one male menopause symptom.
It is estimated that 13 million men suffer from low testosterone levels, yet 90% go untreated. How’s that for proactive medicine? One reason for this is that the symptoms of male menopause can be rather subtle and easily attributed to another condition.
Another reason is that many physicians have unfounded fears of prescribing testosterone because of the negative media reports of testosterone use in sports. These physicians fail to recognize that treating legitimate medical conditions with the use of physiologic doses of testosterone to raise testosterone levels to an optimal range is very safe and very different than athletes using extremely high doses of testosterone for purposes of improving athletic performance.
Another fear of some physicians is that testosterone causes prostate cancer. It is now accepted that testosterone does not cause prostate cancer, though it may increase the growth of an occult prostate cancer (one already present that the patient is not aware of) in some. So it is very important to have a physical examination including a rectal examination and a PSA blood test (for prostate disease) prior to starting testosterone replacement therapy.
Testosterone is important for each of our organ-systems, and it is more than just a muscle and sex hormone. Low testosterone can significantly impair one’s quality of life both physically and mentally.
Symptoms and Risks of Male Menopause
- Decreased libido and sexual performance
- Decreased lean body mass and muscular strength
- Decreased energy/stamina/well-being
- Increased body fat
- Impaired glucose (blood sugar) utilization
- Increased total and LDL cholesterol
- Decreased wound and tissue healing
- Decreased bone density
- Elevated blood pressure
- Tendency towards depression and mood disorders
- Decreased skin tone
- Increased tendon and joint degeneration
What Should I Do if I Suffer From Male Menopause?
It’s important to be evaluated by a physician. This evaluation will include a physical examination and blood work assessing hormone levels and other blood tests to exclude other disorders that may mimic the symptoms of male menopause. For instance, anemia can cause fatigue and a lack of energy. Diabetes can cause erectile dysfunction. Heart disease can cause a lack of energy, depression, and declining strength.
If your physician determines your symptoms are related to low testosterone or male menopause, many treatment options are available (see “Testosterone Therapy”).
Anti-Aging and Age Management physicians specialize in hormonal optimization. See our physician directory.
Other related articles include “Low Testosterone Levels” and “Testosterone Deficiency”.
