The concept of women experiencing a natural “change of life” as they age is a familiar one. However, could it be that men also experience their own “male menopause” as they get older? Well, yes and no. Men do experience a decline in their testosterone levels as they age, typically about 1 to 2 percent a year beginning in their 40s. However, a “male menopause” or andropause suggests a cessation in hormone production and reproductive abilities. Despite declining testosterone levels, hormone and sperm production does not cease and men can remain fertile into their 80s and 90s. Therefore, “male menopause” is a misnomer.
The decline of testosterone can also be accelerated by lifestyle factors and certain health conditions including obesity, alcoholism, stress, chemotherapy and radiation treatment, testicle injuries, hormone medications and corticosteroids. However, many men do not have any have symptoms related to the natural gradual lowering of testosterone. Others may develop several issues that impact the quality of their lives starting when they reach their late 40s to early 50s. Some common symptoms include: lack of libido, erectile dysfunction, trouble sleeping, loss of muscle, fat gain, depression, mood swings, fatigue and memory problems. Because these symptoms can also be caused by a number of conditions such as poor blood circulation and diabetes it can be difficult to link them to lower testosterone levels. However, some men experiencing these symptoms may seek medical help and find that they are indeed related to a testosterone deficiency. The American Urology Association (AUA) identifies low blood testosterone as less than 300 nanograms per deciliter of blood.
What can be done?
Men with a deficiency may be given testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) as a treatment option. This therapy involves the delivery of testosterone through either a skin patch, topical gel, injection, implant or tablet. TRT usually relieves testosterone deficiency symptoms within four to six weeks. On the other hand, just as with hormone replacement therapies for women, this type of therapy does have side effects and risks that should be thoroughly discussed with a healthcare provider. Adverse side effects of the therapy include increased fluid retention, infertility, enlargement of breast tissue and sleep apnea. Men on TRT have a risk of heart disease and stroke and TRT has also been known to worsen prostate cancer or benign prostate disease. There are many alternatives to testosterone replacement therapy including lifestyle changes and medications to stimulate testosterone production. These alternative treatments often have fewer side effects and preserve fertility.
If you are concerned about your hormone levels or are experiencing low testosterone symptoms, visit your healthcare provider to learn more about your treatment options.
