There are currently numerous debates in the medical
community on whether menopause really exists in
men.
Menopause in women is defined as the time when the menstrual
periods cease. Based on this, men cannot have menopause. But,
as the doctors have argued, they can undergo andropause the
male equivalent of menopause in women. Male who have andropause
manifest the same symptoms as those women with menopause.
Male menopause is used to refer to the
condition in which men experience a decrease in their hormone
levels. But unlike the case of women whose hormone levels drop
dramatically, male menopause takes place with a gradual fall in
hormone testosterone. Medical reports show that many men in
their 70's have almost the same testosterone levels as those in
their 20's.
Men with menopause manifest symptoms that include
irritability, sweating, memory problems, concentration
difficulties, and hot flushing.
Other common complaints of men with menopause consist of low
sex drive, hair loss, fatigue, generalized pains, and body
shape changes as they tend to become more rounded and less
brawny.
Analyzing the symptoms, it becomes clear why male menopause
is compared with that of women. Women may manifest some or all
of the symptoms listed.
It is important to note, however, that the symptoms listed
may be caused by other physical illnesses other than menopause.
Thyroid gland dysfunction, depression, or anemia may be the
underlying roots.
Some doctors, however, claim that male menopause is caused
not by the hormonal changes but by psychological reasons. The
realization that they are ageing is underlined by the signs of
physical changes such as the occurrence of wrinkles, fat and
waning hairline.
Men in their middle age usually weaken their self-esteem as
they begin to question themselves as to whether they still have
a role in their homes and the society. An example is when their
children mature and leave home; they start to feel empty and
futile in the family.
Other possible psychological triggers of menopause in men
include financial problems, job dissatisfaction, and marital
conflicts.
It is important to note, however, that the symptoms listed
may be caused by other physical illnesses other than menopause.
Again, thyroid gland dysfunction, depression, or anemia may be
the underlying causes.
The diagnosis of male menopause is done by running a
physical exam, the doctor will inquire about the symptoms the
male is experiencing. He may conduct necessary diagnostic tests
to discard other medical problems which may be affecting the
condition. Series of blood tests will then be carried out to
analyze the patient's hormone levels, as well as the blood
testosterone status.
Testosterone replacement therapy is applied if the
testosterone levels are found to be low. This process also
helps to minimize the symptoms such as fatigue, depression, and
low libido, or poor sex drive.
Hormone replacement therapy has as well been tied to the
development in the brain functions, bone density and night
sweats.
Testosterone replacement comes in oral medication, implants,
or injections.
The oral drugs are given to those who cannot bear implants
or injections.
On the other hand, implants are placed in the lower hip or
abdomen. This method provides cure that keeps going for up to
six months.
The testosterone injections are typically given about once
every two weeks.
If you are considering testosterone replacement therapy, it
is important that you talk to a doctor to learn more about it.
Your physician may also advise some changes in your lifestyle,
such as an exercise program, proper diet, and medications to
help alleviate the symptoms caused by male menopause.
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