Andropause: Causes, Symptoms, & Treatment Options

Andropause, or male menopause, is a real and often misunderstood phase that many men face in their midlife. As men age, their testosterone levels usually decline, and starting from their 30s, the levels drop by an average of 1% annually. 1 This hormonal shift can trigger various physical changes—from decreased energy and mood swings to health issues like urine leakage in men—that significantly impact quality of life. Androgen, or testosterone, its main constituent, may be considered the male equivalent of oestrogen in women and is attributed to gender-related characteristics. While menopause in women occurs abruptly, andropause is slow and gradual. However, it brings its own set of challenges, impacting energy, mood, health, and sexual desire. Understanding the causes and symptoms of andropause is crucial for men over 40. Early detection and appropriate medical intervention can significantly enhance the quality of life. This blog explores the causes, symptoms, management, and potential treatment for andropause.

What is Andropause?

Andropause, called male climacteric in the olden days, refers to the decline of masculine traits. Musculine traits and sexual characteristics stem from androgens, a group of hormones, the most dominant of which is testosterone. When testosterone levels decline with age, men’s energy, mood, or sexual desire can diminish. Andropause can vary significantly from one individual to another, making it essential to recognise its symptoms early. While the condition progresses gradually, it affects many ageing men globally.

Primary Causes of Male Menopause

The primary causes of andropause are as follows:

• Naturally occurring decline in the level of testosterone with age.
• Lifestyle and habits like poor diet, inactivity, excess consumption of alcohol, and smoking.
• Stress and its impact on hormone production.
• Chronic conditions, including obesity, diabetes, and heart diseases.
• Genetic factors, injuries, or infections impacting the testes.
• Some medications.

Identifying these causes early can help manage andropause symptoms effectively, particularly with lifestyle changes crucial in mitigating symptoms, altering the rate and impact of testosterone decline, and restoring wellness.

Common Signs & Symptoms

Notable and less obvious symptoms of andropause include:

• Physical changes: Muscle mass reduction, increased body fat, and decreased bone density.
• Energy levels: Reduced energy levels.
• Sleep issues: Insomnia and poor quality of sleep.
• Sexual health concerns: Lowered libido, erectile dysfunction, and changes in sexual performance.
• Cognitive decline: Memory issues and difficulty in concentrating.
• Mood fluctuations: Irritability, mood swings, and depression.
• Psychological & emotional effects: Depression and diminished self-esteem.
• Rare symptoms: Hot flashes and night sweats.

If you experience any of these symptoms without an apparent cause, seeking medical guidance is vital to safeguarding your health and well-being, which can help manage this phase effectively.

Diagnostic Approach & Evaluation

If you are over 40 and experience potential hormonal shift symptoms associated with male menopause, it is critical to seek a diagnosis. Understanding the diagnostic process for andropause is crucial for proper treatment. Here's what you need to know about the evaluation process:

• Initial symptom assessment: Andropause diagnosis starts with symptom recognition, followed by identifying the need for a thorough evaluation by a healthcare expert. An in-depth symptom review is essential if mood shifts, a decline in energy, or other related signs are observed. Go for a comprehensive analysis of the symptoms and evaluate their impact on your daily life.
• Laboratory testing: Blood tests play a crucial role in measuring testosterone for a definitive diagnosis. These tests aim to deliver a precise overview of your hormonal health, centred on testosterone and its quantities in your system. A testosterone decrease signifies andropause, making blood tests a critical diagnostic tool.
• Differential diagnosis: Low testosterone levels alone will not be sufficient to confirm andropause. It is equally important to eliminate other conditions that might mimic andropause symptoms. Thyroid issues or depression, for example, can produce similar symptoms and must be ruled out. Intelligent elimination ensures that the treatment strategy targets andropause.
• Healthcare communication: Communicating transparently with your healthcare provider is critical in diagnosing and progressing treatment. Being open about your symptoms and worries allows for a more precise evaluation and, consequently, more effective management.

Available Treatment Options

Managing andropause effectively requires a comprehensive treatment approach. Here are the available treatment options:

• Lifestyle modifications: Lifestyle adjustments focused on a healthy diet, consistent physical activity, stress mitigation, and adequate rest.
• Psychological support: Counselling and psychological support services to help manage emotional and mental health aspects.
• Medicines: Medications may be prescribed to address specific symptoms such as impotence, depression, or sleep difficulties. However, they should only be taken as directed by your doctor.
• Alternative therapies: Alternative treatments like the ultra-modern JOGO Therapy offer noninvasive therapeutic solutions to alleviate symptoms.

What is JOGO Therapy?

JOGO Therapy is an advanced, noninvasive digital therapeutic system that leverages wearable electromyography (EMG) sensors and AI-powered applications. It uses EMG biofeedback and neuroplasticity, harnessing the brain’s capacity to rewire itself in response to therapeutic exercises.

Take Control: Advanced Solutions for Andropause Management

Managing andropause is crucial for maintaining well-being and quality of life. Recognising symptoms early and seeking professional guidance can alter the course of andropause and significantly improve outcomes. With advancements in medicine and treatment alternatives, there is no reason why men experiencing andropause cannot navigate this phase with confidence.

JOGO offers innovative, painless, and noninvasive solutions, including advanced EMG biofeedback therapy and a neuroplasticity-based approach, to help you manage your quality of life. Connect with our experts today.

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