Male Menopause
Male Menopause (also called viropause or andropause) involves the hormonal, physiological, and chemical changes that occur in all men generally between the ages of 40 and 55, though it can occur as early as 35 or as late as 65. These changes effect all aspects of a man’s life.
The male menopause is used to refer to the condition in which men experience a decrease in their hormone levels but unlike women whose hormone levels drop dramatically, male menopause takes place with a gradual fall in hormone testosterone. Medical reports have shown that many men in their 70′s have almost the same testosterone levels as those in their 20′s.
Men with menopause manifest symptoms such as irritability, sweating, memory problems, concentration difficulties, and hot flushing.
Other common complaints of men with menopause consist of low sex drive, hair loss, fatigue, generalized pains, and body shape changes as they tend to become more rounded and less brawny.
When you analyze these symptoms, it becomes clear why male menopause is compared with that of women. Women may show some or all of the symptoms listed.
It is important to note, however, that the symptoms listed may be caused by other physical illnesses other than menopause and thyroid gland dysfunction, depression, or anemia could be the underlying causes.
Some doctors, however, claim that male menopause is caused not by the hormonal changes but by psychological reasons. The realization that they are ageing is underlined by the signs of physical changes such as the occurrence of wrinkles, fat and waning hairline.
Men in their middle age usually weaken their self-esteem as they begin to question themselves as to whether they still have a role in their homes and the society. An example is when their children mature and leave home; they start to feel empty and futile in the family.
Other possible psychological triggers of menopause in men include financial problems, job dissatisfaction, and marital conflicts.
It is important to note, however, that the symptoms listed may be caused by other physical illnesses other than menopause. Again, thyroid gland dysfunction, depression, or anemia may be the underlying causes.
The diagnosis of male menopause is done by running a physical exam, the doctor will inquire about the symptoms the male is experiencing. He may conduct necessary diagnostic tests to discard other medical problems which may be affecting the condition. Series of blood tests will then be carried out to analyze the patient’s hormone levels, as well as the blood testosterone status.
Testosterone replacement therapy is applied if the testosterone levels are found to be low. This process also helps to minimize the symptoms such as fatigue, depression, and low libido, or poor sex drive.
Hormone replacement therapy has as well been tied to the development in the brain functions, bone density and night sweats.
Testosterone replacement comes in oral medication, implants, or injections.
The oral drugs are given to those who cannot bear implants or injections.
On the other hand, implants are placed in the lower hip or abdomen. This method provides cure that keeps going for up to six months.
The testosterone injections are typically given about once every two weeks.
If you are considering testosterone replacement therapy, it is important that you talk to a doctor to learn more about it. Your physician may also advise some changes in your lifestyle, such as an exercise program, proper diet, and medications to help alleviate the symptoms caused by male menopause.
References:
- men.webmd.com
- www.medicinenet.com
- www.mayoclinic.com
- www.andrology.com
- health.discovery.com
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Filed Under: psychology
