The phrase “male menopause” has been used to describe the natural decline in testosterone levels in men that occurs with age. However, the hormonal changes associated with aging differ between men and women.
In women, ovulation stops and hormone production drops in a relatively short amount of time. This is referred to as menopause. Men’s testosterone and other hormone production diminish over time, with unclear consequences. Late-onset hypogonadism, often known as age-related low testosterone, refers to the steady fall of testosterone levels.
Acknowledging low testosterone levels
After the age of 40, a man’s testosterone levels typically fall by 1% every year. However, most elderly men’s testosterone levels remain within the normal range, with only 10% to 25% levels that are deemed low.
Low testosterone levels in older men are often overlooked. A blood test can be used to determine testosterone levels, although these tests are not performed on a regular basis. Many individuals with low testosterone levels show no symptoms. Furthermore, the signs and symptoms of low testosterone are not limited to that condition. They can also be caused by an individual’s age, medication use, or other illnesses, such as a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher.
Signs and symptoms of low testosterone
The following signs and symptoms may suggest that you have low levels of testosterone:
- Reduced sexual desire and activity
- Reduced natural erections or erectile dysfunction
- Breast soreness or swelling
- Infertility
- Height loss, low trauma fracture, or low bone mineral density
- Hot flashes or sweats
Other possible symptoms include a lack of energy, motivation, and confidence, an unpleasant mood, and difficulty concentrating. It is also possible to have excessive tiredness, sleep problems, minor unexplained anemia, decreased muscle size and strength, and increased body fat.
Problems causing low testosterone
Many of these symptoms might also be caused by lifestyle choices or mental health issues. For example, erectile dysfunction, low sex drive, and mood swings may be caused by:
- Stress
- Depression
- Anxiety
Physical causes of erectile dysfunction, such as smoking or heart problems, might occur in addition to any psychological factors. Work or marital conflicts, financial difficulties, or concerns about aging parents are common causes of psychological problems.
A “midlife crisis” is another possible explanation. This might occur when males believe they have reached the halfway point in their lives. Anxiety about what they have accomplished thus far, whether in their professional or personal lives, might contribute to a period of despair.
Other proposed reasons for “male menopause” are:
- Sleep deprivation
- Bad eating habits
- Little physical activity
- Drinking excessively
- Smoking
- Low self-esteem
Late-onset hypogonadism
In some situations, if lifestyle or psychological problems do not appear to be the cause, the symptoms of “male menopause” may be caused by hypogonadism, a condition in which the testes release little or no hormones. Hypogonadism can be present from birth, resulting in symptoms such as delayed puberty and undersized testicles.
Hypogonadism can also appear later in life, especially in men who are obese or have type 2 diabetes. This is characterized as late-onset hypogonadism and can result in “male menopause” symptoms.
However, this is a rare and unique medical issue that is not a natural aspect of aging. Late-onset hypogonadism is usually diagnosed based on your symptoms and the results of blood tests to determine your testosterone level.
When to get tested for low testosterone?
Experts urge that older men only be tested for low testosterone if they exhibit any symptoms. If an initial test reveals low testosterone levels, the test should be repeated to confirm the findings. If low testosterone levels are confirmed, additional pituitary gland testing is necessary to discover the cause and rule out other hormonal deficits. The pituitary gland is a kidney-bean-sized gland located at the base of the brain. It is part of your body’s endocrine system, which includes all of the glands responsible for hormone production and regulation.
Treatment for low testosterone levels
Male andropause-related symptoms may be treatable. However, in order to reverse the fall in testosterone levels, various lifestyle adjustments will be suggested. This could include both exercise and nutritional adjustments.
Some specialists also recommend that men with age-related low testosterone receive testosterone treatment even if they do not have any symptoms. If you decide to begin testosterone therapy, your doctor will discuss with you the many ways testosterone can be provided, the goal levels to be achieved, and the follow-up tests required. For some men, testosterone therapy alleviates the troublesome symptoms of testosterone deprivation. For others, the benefits remain ambiguous.
If your fertility is important in the near future, or if you have conditions such as breast or prostate cancer, untreated severe obstructive sleep apnea, uncontrolled heart failure or thrombophilia, or if you’ve recently had a heart attack or stroke, your doctor will probably advise you not to begin testosterone therapy.
If you suspect you have low testosterone, consult your doctor about your symptoms, tests, and potential treatment choices. Your doctor can help you balance the benefits and drawbacks of the treatment.
Hormone replacement therapy (HRT)
Medication or testosterone replacement therapy may be recommended in certain circumstances. Your doctor may also request a blood test to determine your testosterone level. If the results indicate that you have a testosterone deficit, you may be sent to an endocrinologist, who specializes in hormone disorders. You may then be prescribed testosterone replacement to address the hormone shortage and alleviate your symptoms. This medication can be administered as an injection or gel. Although they are known to have certain negative side effects, the advantages and disadvantages of hormone injections can be explored with your doctor.