Andropause, sometimes referred to as “male menopause,” is a real condition caused by low testosterone levels.
Levels of testosterone-the hormone responsible for body and facial hair, muscle mass and deep voices in males-lower as men get older. As a result of these low levels, males may experience physical and psychological symptoms.
Approximately 30 per cent of men in their fifties will experience symptoms of andropause and a person experiencing andropause could be at risk for other serious health conditions such as osteoporosis and cardiovascular problems without proper treatment.
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How common is this?
A study of more than 3,000 European men in 2010 suggests the number is only perhaps two per cent of the population.
Signs and symptoms
Some men have lower-than-normal testosterone without signs or symptoms. But others may experience:
• Changes in sexual function: Can mean less desire, fewer spontaneous erections, erectile dysfunction
• Changes in sleep patterns: For example, insomnia
• Physical changes: More fat, less muscle bulk and strength, swollen or tender breasts, hair loss, less energy or hot flashes
• Emotional changes: Feeling sad or depressed, difficulty concentrating or remembering things
What are the key differences between andropause and menopause?
According to Body and Health, women experience a much faster drop-off in hormone levels than men do as they age. For men, testosterone decreases gradually over decades, while the onset of menopause is relatively short.
– With files from Postmedia News
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