Male menopause: What are the symptoms & how is it treated?
Aging is an inevitable part of the human life cycle and is accompanied by a plethora of physiological changes. One such change that affects men as they age is the gradual decline in testosterone levels, a condition known as male menopause or andropause . Although not universally recognized as a clinical syndrome, andropause has gained increasing attention in recent years due to its potentially far-reaching effects on men’s health and well-being. Andropause is associated with a number of physical, psychological and sexual symptoms that can significantly affect the quality of life of affected men. Therefore, implementing effective solutions to manage the symptoms of menopause is of utmost importance.
Male menopause: What are the symptoms?
Andropause is characterized by a gradual decline in testosterone production from the testicles, which usually begins in the late 40s or early 50s. Testosterone is a critical hormone for male development, sexual function and general well-being. Its decline is attributed to age-related changes in the Leydig cells of the testicles, which produce testosterone. Male climacteric is therefore associated with a wide range of symptoms, which can vary in severity between individuals. Common symptoms include fatigue, decreased sex drive, erectile dysfunction, mood swings, irritability, decreased muscle mass, increased body fat, and decreased bone density. These symptoms are often overlapped by other medical conditions, thus making diagnosis difficult.
Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT)
Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) is a therapeutic approach aimed at restoring testosterone levels to a normal range in men with andropause. It is available in various forms, the appropriate one of which is chosen according to the needs of each case and the wishes of the patient. The choice of the appropriate form of TRT treatment should be tailored to individual preferences, lifestyle and clinical considerations.
Managing symptoms caused by male menopause with TRT therapy
One of the most noticeable and often the most painful symptoms caused by male menopause is the deterioration of sexual function. TRT therapy can improve erectile function, increase sexual desire, and enhance overall sexual satisfaction. The mechanism behind these positive effects lies in the restoration of normal testosterone levels. At the same time, andropause is often associated with mood disorders, including irritability and depression. Testosterone replacement therapy has been shown to alleviate these symptoms in some men, leading to improved overall mental well-being and increased energy levels.
Testosterone also plays a key role in maintaining muscle mass and bone density. Therefore, TRT therapy can lead to an increase in body muscle mass and help prevent age-related bone loss, reducing the risk of osteoporosis and fractures. Finally, increasing testosterone with TRT therapy can lead to reductions in body fat and improvements in body composition. This can have positive effects on cardiovascular health and a host of other systems.
However, while this treatment can offer significant benefits, it is important to use it with caution and under the guidance of an expert. Initially, TRT treatment should be individualized based on the patient’s symptoms, preferences, and overall health. Therefore, a thorough evaluation of potential contraindications is crucial. At the same time, regular monitoring of testosterone, hematocrit and prostate specific antigen (PSA) levels is essential during TRT treatment. This helps ensure that testosterone levels stay within the therapeutic range and that any side effects are caught early. Ultimately, informed decision-making, in collaboration with experts, is paramount in managing andropause by increasing testosterone levels, ensuring the best possible outcomes for sufferers. At MenTest, a leading testosterone replacement center in Greece, we specialize in increasing testosterone in order to successfully manage the symptoms of menopause and improve men’s quality of life.