Menopause in men: symptoms and treatment approaches

Menopause in men: symptoms and treatment approaches

Menopause in men: symptoms and treatment approaches

Menopause is a well-known phenomenon in women, but men can also experience similar changes in their bodies. The so-called “male menopause” is also known as “andropause” or “late-onset hypogonadism”. Although not as severe as in women, menopause can still lead to physical and psychological changes in men. In this article, we will take a closer look at the symptoms of menopause in men and possible treatment options.

Definition of menopause in men

Menopause in men usually occurs in middle to late age, typically between 40 and 50 years. While many men think that their hormones don't change throughout life, this is a misconception. In fact, after a certain age, the male body produces less testosterone - the main sex hormone - which can lead to various physical and emotional symptoms.

Causes of menopause in men

The main cause of the hormonal changes during menopause is the slow decline in the production of testosterone by the testicles. Unlike menopause in women, there is no clear biological marker or immediate trigger for the start of this process. It is believed that genetic factors, lifestyle and environmental exposures may play a role.

Symptoms of menopause in men

Menopause in men can be accompanied by a variety of symptoms. Here are the most common ones:

1. Decreased sexual function

A decline in testosterone levels can lead to decreased libido (sexual desire) and also cause erectile dysfunction (ED). Men may have difficulty maintaining an erection or even have trouble achieving an erection.

2. Fatigue

Menopausal men can often feel tired and exhausted, even after getting enough sleep. This lack of energy can affect their overall quality of life.

3. Mood changes

Mood swings, irritability and depressive moods are possible side effects of menopause in men. These emotional changes can also lead to difficulty concentrating.

4. Decreased muscle mass and bone density

The decline in testosterone levels can lead to loss of muscle mass and bone density, increasing the risk of osteoporosis and affecting muscle performance.

5. Weight gain

The hormonal changes during menopause can contribute to increased storage of fatty tissue in the abdominal region. This often leads to weight gain and a change in body shape.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of menopause in men is based on a thorough medical history, physical examinations and laboratory tests of hormone levels. It's important to rule out other possible causes for the symptoms, as some of them could indicate medical conditions such as thyroid problems or diabetes.

Treatment options

If a man is diagnosed with low testosterone and is experiencing symptoms that accompany the symptoms, hormone replacement therapy (HRT) may be considered. HRT involves administering synthetic testosterone in the form of injections, gels, or patches. The dosage should be adjusted individually to achieve the optimal testosterone level.

However, there are also alternative treatment methods to relieve menopause in men:

1. Lifestyle changes

Eating a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help reduce symptoms. Regular physical activity and stress management strategies such as yoga or meditation can also have a positive effect.

2. Supplements

Some supplements, such as DHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone) or certain vitamins, may relieve menopausal symptoms in some men. It is important to consult a doctor before taking such supplements as they may cause side effects.

3. Natural remedies

Some men find relief from their symptoms through natural remedies such as saw palmetto extract or black maca root supplements. However, these herbal preparations should only be taken after consulting a doctor.

FAQs about menopause in men

Q: Is menopause the same in men as in women?

A: No, although there are some common characteristics, the hormonal changes and associated symptoms are different in men than in women.

Q: How long does menopause last?

A: The duration can vary from man to man, but typically these changes last several years.

Q: Can men's menopause be treated?

A: Yes, there are various treatment options to manage menopause symptoms. Hormone replacement therapy is an option for men with low testosterone and debilitating conditions.

Conclusion

Menopause is a normal part of aging and is often accompanied by hormonal changes. Although they are not as serious as in women, they can still cause unpleasant physical and emotional symptoms. Men suffering from these changes may benefit from a medical examination and consultation to identify possible causes of their symptoms and discuss treatment options. A healthy lifestyle and alternative treatment methods can also help relieve symptoms. It is important for men to be informed about this phase of their life so that they can better prepare and deal with the changes.

Sources:
– https://www.healthline.com/health/mens-health/male-menopause
– https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/male-hypogonadism/symptoms-causes/syc-20354881