You’ve heard of menopause. When women reach middle age, their bodies go through changes due to a natural decline in reproductive hormones. But did you know that some men experience a similar process called andropause?
This post will talk about some of the most common symptoms of andropause and how hormone replacement therapy can help.
The Symptoms of Andropause
All women go through menopause, but only men whose testosterone levels naturally drop experience andropause. Men may notice lower testosterone levels once they reach the age of 40. If levels are low enough, they may experience the symptoms of andropause, which include:
- Mood swings
- Lack of concentration
- Fatigue and lower energy
- Erectile dysfunction
- Loss of muscle mass
- Unexpected weight gain
In men, however, these symptoms may occur due to conditions other than andropause. It’s important to rule out high blood pressure, diabetes, obesity, clinical depression, or cardiac problems before beginning a course of treatment.
Diagnosis of Andropause
At Rejuvime Medical, you’ll meet with a nurse who will provide an overview of services and answer any initial questions you may have. Your nurse or nurse practitioner will perform a physical exam, ask about your symptoms, and often order blood tests to measure your testosterone level and rule out other causes for your symptoms.
Based on the results of your tests, your nurse practitioner will create a customized treatment plan to target your concerns.
Treatment of Andropause
Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) can be beneficial for men who are experiencing andropause symptoms associated with low testosterone levels. Bioidentical hormones differ from other hormone therapies because they’re identical in their molecular structure to human hormones, aren’t synthesized in a lab, and can be customized for a specific person. BHRT options for andropause offered at Reuvime Medical include progesterone, testosterone, and DHEA. Here is why each is important:
Progesterone
Progesterone is a necessary building block for testosterone. The body transforms progesterone into testosterone, so having enough in your body can help combat a deficiency by supporting your body in producing more testosterone hormones.
Testosterone
Testosterone contributes to characteristics such as a deep voice, facial hair, and healthy muscle mass. Having the right amount of this hormone helps boost energy, reduce body fat, and improve overall health. As testosterone levels fall, using bioidentical testosterone can provide relief for symptoms associated with aging and andropause.
DHEA
DHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone) is used by the body as a building block for your sex hormones. A boost in DHEA levels can help increase testosterone production. DHEA can also help increase muscle mass, helping you look and feel your best.
During your first appointment, we’ll discuss whether bioidentical hormone replacement therapy could help your symptoms. Though hormone replacement therapy is considered safe for many patients, it’s not suitable for everyone. Our hormone specialists will talk with you about your health history before recommending a treatment plan. For more information regarding hormone replacement therapy and how it could help your andropause symptoms, request a consultation or call us at (225) 960-1580 to schedule an appointment.
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