If you are over 40, male and have been experiencing lack of sleep and being extremely moody for no particular reason, then be assured that you, like your female counterpart are going through a phase in life known as male menopause or andropause.
Andropause is the medical term used to describe the condition that occurs in men when his testosterone levels fall significantly. Male menopause and female menopause are entirely different, though both are related to ageing and decrease in hormonal levels. In women, hormonal changes occur rather rapidly while in men, it takes a couple of years for the hormonal changes to occur.
Change in the hormonal levels of the body at various stages of life is a natural part of ageing. There is a difference in the process of hormonal change in men and women. Women undergo menopause in a well defined period during which the hormone production stops completely while the testosterone production in men slows down gradually over the years. Usually, these hormones in men will remain at a healthy level, but sometimes may get affected due to some diseases or subtle changes in the function of the testes.
Causes of Andropause
Male menopause is associated with progressing age, but sometimes certain factors are responsible for the phenomenon. These specific factors are:
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Diabetes
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Hypertension
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Obesity
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Depression
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Dementia
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Autoimmune diseases or cancer
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Lack of exercise
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Poor blood circulation
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Poor diet
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Smoking
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Too much alcohol consumption
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Psychological problems, mainly mid-life depression or crisis
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Use of Prescription and non-prescription medications
Symptoms of Andropause
When a women reaches menopause she will no longer be able to bear any children, but men will still be able to father children, although their sex hormone levels will be at much lower levels. Andropause in men can occur anywhere between the ages of 40 and 60. During andropause men will experience symptoms including the following:
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Mood swings like irritability and short temperament
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A Feeling of sleepiness immediately after dinner
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Decline in sports ability
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Fall in work performance
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Lethargy and low levels of energy
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Lessening of strength and/or endurance
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Lack of interest in life
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Reduced sex drive
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Weak erection
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Sleep difficulties
The levels of testosterone will vary sharply among men, while it’s much higher in younger men it begins to decline as one gets older. Studies have shown that testosterone levels fall 1% every year after age 30 and by the age of 70, a man’s testosterone level would have fallen to 50%. A thorough medical evaluation is a must for all men above 40 and if you are undergoing andropause, it’s best to get it treated as it can give rise to various medical conditions like obstructive sleep apnea that can lead to further decrease in testosterone levels.
Some men may experience lower testosterone levels without any symptoms or signs and for others, low levels of testosterone can cause a decline in sexual libido, changes in sleep patterns, and physical and emotional changes. The changes in sexual function can include reduced desire for sex, fewer erections, and infertility. At times, your testes can shrink.
You can experience insomnia or disturbed sleep. The physical changes include increased body fat, decrease in muscle bulk and bone density. The body experiences a sense of general weakness. Hair loss, hot flashes and swelling of breasts can occur. On the emotional level, low testosterone levels can cause mood swings.
Your self confidence decreases and a lack of motivation sets in, leaving you sad and depressed for unknown reasons. Some men may even experience memory problems.
A fall in testosterone levels as you age is normal, however if it’s caused due to alcohol abuse, thyroid problems, medication side effects and depression then you need to undergo a blood test for diagnosis. Consult your doctor immediately if you suspect a fall in testosterone levels. Here’s how you can deal with low testosterone levels.
Dealing With Low Testosterone
Learn to make healthy lifestyle changes, by eating healthy foods like fruits and vegetables and including lots of physical activity in your everyday regime. This will provide you with stamina, energy, lean muscle mass and strength. Regular physical exercise will help elevate moods and balance mood swings. A good night’s sleep is very important and it can improve your concentration.
Never be wary of seeking medical help, in case you experience mood swings or depression. Consult your doctor on the issue and she will prescribe proper medication for you. During andropause, it’s likely that you will be more irritable, work aggressively, and seek thrills from risky activities or go on a drinking binge. Keep away from herbal supplements that promise to raise your libido levels. These have no medical backing and are known to cause harm. Long term use of such supplements is known to cause prostate cancer.
Can Andropause be Treated?
Men often do not seek treatment for andropause. Most men feel uncomfortable talking about their symptoms. However, with the recent development in science, people are now aware of this problem and are beginning to realize the importance of treatment. Men have now begun to open up a bit! The treatment includes Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT) for men who are suffering from reduced levels of testosterone. However, it is not a benign treatment and hence, must be implemented under a doctor's guidance.
Apart from hormonal therapy, there are other natural ways to manage the testosterone levels in the body. They are easy as well as safer options. These include:
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Exercise:Various studies have reported that exercising for at least twice a week can increase muscle strength by more than 30 percent, while boosting bone density, speeding up metabolism and pushing up the production of testosterone.
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Nutrition: The diet should comprise of adequate amounts of carbohydrate, protein and healthy fats. Studies conducted by various researchers have found that protein helps to maintain a lean muscle mass. Lack of carbohydrates can lead to a fall in the serotonin levels, causing irritability. It also takes a certain amount of fat to keep testosterone production at healthy levels.
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Vitamin B Supplements: Vitamin B supplements will boost energy and will help in relieving stress as well.
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Fish Oil: Omega -3 supplements have been found to be effective for treating male menopause symptoms.
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Herbs: Certain herbs like ashwagandha and ginseng are beneficial for heart health and male sexual energy.
It is very important for men to understand and recognize the signs and symptoms of andropause at an early stage. Experts suggest that a holistic approach is the key to the management of andropause. Remember the words of Theodore Roosevelt, "Old age is like everything else, to make a success of it, you've got to start young". A new journey begins during your middle ages. Enjoy the tour!
