Andropause - What You Should Know About Male Menopause If You're Over Forty

Andropause is the name given to the male menopause and refers to the production of a hormone called androgen declining. This is not uncommon in advancing age but it is also associated with injuries and diseases that slow or stop androgen production. Recognizing the symptoms associated with andropause can mean a male gets a quick diagnosis and treatment. Unfortunately, many males-especially those under 40-are reluctant to seek treatment for male menopause; usually due to embarrassment they are suffering from the ensuing sexual dysfunction.

The male menopause is most common in men over 50-years of age. However, some men may experience andropause as early as 30. Once a man reaches 30 his testosterone levels begin to decline and continue to reduce by around five percent every year. Men over the age of 30 who smoke are likely to experience early male menopause. There is a variety of symptoms when it comes to the male menopause including changes in the man's masculine appearance, sexual changes and mood swings. Changes in the male's mood may include sadness, grumpiness, pessimism and anxiety. Someone going through andropause may also experience reduced muscle mass, decreased physical activity, loss of pubic hair and weight increase.

Males who fear they may be experiencing symptoms of the male menopause, should seek advice from their medical practitioner. However, there is currently no specific test that would accurately diagnose the menopause. Instead, the medical professional will organize for the male to have a full hormone profile completed. The profile checks thyroid-stimulating hormones, follicle-stimulating hormones, prolactin in the blood and luteinizing hormones. The male will also be asked to complete a special male menopause questionnaire, including questions about his energy levels, libido and strength. The medical professional will also carry out a physical examination, as well as checking the patient's past medical history in order to diagnose andropause confidently.

Testosterone replacement therapy is the most common treatment for male menopause and reduced libido. As well as increasing hormone levels, the replacement therapy also replaces other necessary hormones that have been affected by the drop in testosterone. Replacement therapy can be given through the skin, intravenously or orally. This means a male can choose the best treatment that not only meets his needs but fits in with his lifestyle. Although there are several different treatment options, the most popular among men and medical professionals is hormone patches. These are easy to use and offer the male a stable flow of hormones; the patches also have significantly fewer side effects than other treatment options.

As well as hormone replacement therapy, males suffering andropause should also make positive changes to their diet. Eating foods that are rich in Omega-3 oils will naturally reduce the severity of male menopause symptoms. Individuals should avoid smoking, drinking alcohol, grapes and eating fatty food. It is also recommended that menopausal men take a variety of vitamin and mineral supplements. Males who watch their carbohydrate metabolism will avoid putting on weight due to andropause. Magnesium, zinc, vitamins D and B, and calcium supplements will prevent the male's natural insulin from increasing. Lycopene, stinging nettle and vitamin C supplements will also reduce the symptoms of male menopause and promote wellbeing in males.