Andropause is a condition that affects aging men. It is similar to female menopause and is sometimes referred to as male menopause. Andropause is caused by a gradual decline in testosterone levels as men get older. The symptoms of andropause can vary, but may include:
- Decreased sex drive - Many men notice a drop in libido as they age. This is one of the hallmark symptoms of andropause.
- Erectile dysfunction - Problems getting or maintaining an erection become increasingly common as testosterone levels fall. This can significantly impact romantic relationships.
- Loss of muscle mass - Testosterone plays a key role in building and maintaining muscle. Declining levels lead to muscle loss, weakness, and fatigue.
- Increased body fat - Particularly around the midsection. Shifting body composition is common with andropause.
- Loss of bone density - Low testosterone is associated with osteoporosis and increased fracture risk. Bone density scans may be recommended.
- Mood changes - Some men with andropause report irritability, depression, and other mood disturbances. Hormone changes can affect emotions.
- Hot flashes - Yes, men get hot flashes too! Sudden feelings of intense warmth in the face/body are not uncommon in andropause.
- Sleep disturbances - Difficulty falling asleep and staying asleep afflict many men with declining testosterone. This exacerbates irritability and fatigue.
- Sweating and flushing - Night sweats and hot flashes can cause sweating and facial flushing. This can be socially embarrassing.
So when do these changes usually start? The onset of andropause symptoms is gradual, but most men start noticing them
after age 50. The diagnosis is made through blood tests measuring
total and free testosterone levels.
| Symptom |
Description |
| Decreased sex drive |
Many men notice a drop in libido as they age |
| Erectile dysfunction |
Problems getting or maintaining an erection become increasingly common |
| Loss of muscle mass |
Testosterone plays a key role in building and maintaining muscle |
| Increased body fat |
Particularly around the midsection |
| Loss of bone density |
Low testosterone is associated with osteoporosis and increased fracture risk |
| Mood changes |
Some men report irritability, depression, and other mood disturbances |
| Hot flashes |
Sudden feelings of intense warmth in the face/body |
| Sleep disturbances |
Difficulty falling asleep and staying asleep |
| Sweating and flushing |
Night sweats and hot flashes can cause sweating and facial flushing |
If levels are low, hormone replacement therapy may be recommended. This involves
testosterone administration via injections, gels, patches or pellets. The goal is to raise testosterone back to normal levels. Benefits like increased energy, sex drive and muscle mass are often reported. However, testosterone therapy has potential side effects like prostate issues, heart problems and sleep apnea. Careful monitoring is required.
Here are some tips to help manage andropause naturally:
| Tip |
Description |
| Exercise |
Strength training helps maintain muscle and bone density. Aerobic exercise improves energy and mood. |
| Healthy diet |
Lean proteins, fruits, vegetables and whole grains provide important nutrients. Limit sugar, refined carbs and unhealthy fats. |
| Stress management |
Chronic stress raises cortisol, which lowers testosterone. Try relaxation techniques like yoga and meditation. |
| Quality sleep |
Aim for 7-8 hours per night. Create an optimal sleep environment and treat any sleep disorders. |
| Healthy weight |
Excess weight, especially abdominal fat, reduces testosterone. Losing weight may help reverse symptoms. |
| Limit alcohol |
Heavy drinking lowers testosterone. Moderate your alcohol consumption. |
| Quit smoking |
Smoking cigarettes or cigars depresses testosterone levels. Kicking the habit may help. |
While andropause is common in older men, remember that symptoms vary widely. Don't just chalk up all changes to "getting old." Discuss your specific symptoms and concerns with a doctor, and explore treatment options to maintain your vitality. Proper diagnosis and management can help you feel like the energetic, vibrant man you've always been!
This article was provided by Renew Hormones, your trusted clinic for hormone health and optimization. Our expert physicians develop personalized treatment plans to address hormone deficiencies and help you regain your edge.