Does male menopause exist? Do men really go through menopause as women do? Some doctors believe they do. Others do not and this has led to an ongoing debate. While female menopause has been recognized by medical professionals for years, male menopause has only recently been recognized by some medical professionals.
Lower testosterone levels
Male menopause, if it should be called that, happens when a man’s testosterone hormone levels go down. Testosterone is the hormone that is responsible for sexual development in males and controls the sex drive in males. Menopause can occur in men between the ages of 35 to 65. Male menopause produces symptoms that can be treated with testosterone therapy.
Fatigue, weight gain, depression, sexual health issues
Male Menopause symptoms include fatigue, weight gain, depression, sexual health problems, and mood changes. Sexual problems can include infertility, lowered sexual desire and erectile dysfunction. The majority of men who are in male menopause will experience low libido and may not be able to maintain a strong erection.
If you are suffering from erectile dysfunction, Viagra can help. It can help a man achieve and maintain an erection long enough to have sex.
Lack of sex drive, poor sleep habits
For some men, sex may be less pleasurable. It may also cause changes in sleeping habits. Men may also notice more body fat and less muscle tone. They may also notice a decrease in physical endurance and strength. A man may also experience psychological symptoms such as forgetfulness or trouble concentrating. In addition, they may experience night sweats, joint pain, and hot flashes.
Causes for male menopause
Several things can cause a man to enter male menopause. These include low testosterone deficiencies, excessive drinking of alcohol, being overweight, smoking tobacco, high blood pressure, certain medications, and poor circulation. Other causes can include an unhealthy diet, not enough exercise and depression.
Difference between male and female menopause
Men’s and women’s menopause symptoms differ significantly. In female menopause, estrogen production stops completely. In male menopause, there is a slower, more gradual decline of the testosterone hormone. While a woman’s ovaries will completely stop making eggs, a man can produce sperm well into old age.
Treatment for male menopause
Many men may feel embarrassed and do not seek treatment for their symptoms. They need not worry. Most doctors are now aware of this problem and will be able to help treat their bothersome symptoms. The doctor will perform a physical exam to diagnose male menopause. In addition, they will ask the patient what symptoms they are experiencing. The doctor will also do a series of lab tests to measure hormone levels. Additional blood work will be performed to rule out any underlying illnesses such as hypothyroidism and clinical depression.
Testosterone replacement therapy
If a doctor determines that the patient does have low testosterone levels, they may order testosterone hormone replacement therapy for them. Testosterone can be given in many forms including injections, patches, creams, gels or pills. If you are prescribed testosterone gel then this will need to be applied to the skin – once absorbed, it will successfully increase your testosterone levels and decrease any symptoms of low testosterone.
Blood tests
Periodic blood tests must be performed to make sure the level of testosterone in the blood stays at a safe level. Testosterone therapy offers relief of male menopause symptoms is many men. However, it does have some risks and side effects. One side effect is that prostate cancer may worse with testosterone therapy. Testosterone therapy can also increase the chances that a person will get a blood clot.
Easing symptoms of male menopause
There are many other things that can be done to help ease the symptoms of male menopause. To reduce symptoms, try to live a healthy lifestyle. A healthy diet and daily physical exercise will help to ease male menopause symptoms. Strength training can help reduce body fat and keep muscles from losing muscle tone.
Try to find ways to lessen and manage stress. It is important to get seven to eight hours of sleep a night. Avoid excessive alcohol consumption and make sure high blood pressure is kept under control.
Age of men affected
Male menopause can affect many men over the age of 40 and can cause various troubling symptoms. Most doctors now recognize male menopause and can offer significant relief from these symptoms. Read more on improving your sex life and overcoming your sexual fears.
About Dr Alexis Missick:
Dr Alexis Missick is an experienced General Practitioner who works with UK Meds. Dr Missick has worked in the NHS for over 10 years and has 6 years experience working internationally, mostly in the Caribbean. Her approach in General practice to prioritise helping patients better understand their health and engage in the process of improving it. She empowers her patients via patient education to share in their journey to better patient health.
About UK Meds:
UK Meds is one of the leading online clinics in the pharmaceutical industry, providing people with the medication they need delivered straight to their door. The UK Meds mission is simple; to provide healthcare with a difference to people whose lives don’t suit the status quo.
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