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As men age, their bodies produce less testosterone. Because testosterone supports so many of the processes in a man’s body, big changes occur when it’s in short supply. “Andropause” (or “male menopause”) is the term given to the overall process and symptoms that occur when testosterone levels decline. Andropause affects millions of men worldwide and is a common part of aging.
1. The Physical Symptoms of Andropause
Physically, andropause has been described as being akin to puberty, but in reverse. Testosterone is responsible for regulating bone and muscle growth. Both of those diminish when testosterone is less available. The Wesley Woods Health Center in Atlanta warns that men experiencing the symptoms of andropause have a higher risk of osteoporosis.
Additionally, body fat increases and lean body mass decreases, this can quickly become a very imbalanced scale. According to the University of Texas School of Medicine, body mass and testosterone may be inversely related and obesity restricts testosterone production. When testosterone production is already affected, this can make a strained situation even worse and might offer an explanation as to why obesity affects older men.
2. Sexual Symptoms of Andropause
Testosterone is required for sexual function but testosterone is less available during andropause. Uh-oh. You’re probably not surprised to learn that many men report experiencing impotence and other sexual problems such as premature ejaculation, or no ejaculation at all.
When the Department of Family Practice & Community Medicine at the University of Texas surveyed 302 andropause patients, erectile dysfunction was at the top of the list of reported symptoms. It’s worth underscoring the fact that erectile dysfunction often coexists with cardiovascular problems and depression. Both of which have a horrible and compound effect on the quality of life for the man experiencing the symptoms and his partner; it’s an important point to remember (and certainly one that’s hard to forget) when two people are affected.
3. Cognitive Symptoms of Andropause
A survey of 85 men between the ages of 40 and 65 years reported that the most frequent mental changes associated with andropause were reduced concentration and memory, and increased irritability. Studies by the Psychology Department at King’s College in London have indicated disturbed sleep (due to hot flashes and night sweats) contributed to fatigue and irritability. Additionally, anxiety, mood swings, and nervousness are also common. What’s the explanation? According to the University of Texas Medical School in Houston, there is strong evidence that testosterone helps protect against neurodegeneration. When testosterone is less available, so is that protection.
