We have all heard about menopause that every woman goes through. We know how to recognize the symptoms and treat them rather successfully. However, something that is less talked about is male menopause. Yes, it exists! It is called andropause, and if you want to know what exactly is that, what are the symptoms, and how to relieve them, keep on reading.
Like with women and menopause, andropause is a change in hormone levels in men and it is somewhat a normal process of aging. This is mostly a drop in testosterone levels in men after 50 years of age. This is a hormone that not only affects sex drive but also a lot of the changes during puberty, it affects energy levels and muscle mass as well. Now, the thing is that not every man will experience this, but if it happens to you, here is how to recognize it.
One of the commonest symptoms is a loss of energy. Some confuse it as a sign of aging, however, this is due to a lack of hormones. Other common symptoms include depression, lack of motivation, higher body fat, and lower muscle mass, reduced libido, problems with erectile function, and changes in sleeping and eating habits. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, you are maybe going through andropause. If this is the case, an easy blood test can confirm, and you can start with trying to treat your symptoms. The one big thing you can do is change your lifestyle, meaning some of your habits. A healthy, well-balanced diet and a moderate exercise rhythm will affect positively. You should also try to get enough sleep every night and try to lower the stress you are experiencing. Reducing alcohol, nicotine, and caffeine intake can also help with certain problems. Other than that, you can spend more time in nature, go swimming, or light walking, which will help with any muscle or joint pain you have, and it will have huge benefits on your mental health as well. If, however, the symptoms are more serious, and you feel like lifestyle changes are not enough, you can consult your doctor about a course of treatment. Those mostly include HRT for men, which is a hormone replacement therapy to treat andropause symptoms. Along with this, a light antidepressant may be prescribed if needed, but you should only do this by doctor’s recommendation. This is because many illnesses and conditions don’t go well with hormone therapy, so you want to weigh all the positive and negative effects with your doctor before making a decision. But, you should try simpler, more natural solutions first.
Even though it is not talked about as much, andropause is a problem many men face. Precisely because there is so much stigma about it, you should not stay silent. If you recognize any of the symptoms listed above, seek medical help, and it will help you live a healthier and happier life. Make all the changes you can because they will make a difference, but do not shy away from medication if that is a better option.
I’m a 20-something stay-at-home mother and wife. I have an amazing husband, a beautiful daughter, two loving dogs, and a lazy cat. I wouldn’t change my life for anything! I love to read, listen to music, cook and blog!
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