Andropause
The “male menopause,” called andropause, may not be as widely recognized as the female menopause, but the hormone-related changes experienced by aging men can be just as distressing.
The evidence that androgen hormones, which include testosterone and several others, decline with age is undeniable. However, the decline for men is a more gradual process than for women, and symptoms vary widely. Most men begin to notice changes in sexuality, energy, and mood in their forties, and the androgen hormone decline that plays a significant role in these changes continues into their eighties.
Research shows that men are less likely to see a doctor than are women, especially when it involves such emotional issues as sexual dysfunction or depression. But for men who have the courage to seek care, their later years can be more passionate, rewarding, and purposeful.
Are you experiencing any of these symptoms?
Complaints commonly associated with declining androgen hormones include:
* Fatigue
* Decrease in libido and sexual dysfunction
* Lack of energy
* Decrease in strength and/or endurance
* Loss of height
* Reduced enjoyment of life
* Depression
* Erections less strong
* Deterioration in physical coordination
* Falling asleep after dinner
* Decreased work performance
* Loss of armpit and genitalia hair
* Shrinkage of testicle size
* Muscle weakness and bone loss
* Heart palpitations
* Night sweats
These symptoms no longer have to be accepted as part of the aging process. Now, for the first time, when treated, men can experience the second half of life.
WHY IS TESTOSTERONE IMPORTANT?
HormonesTestosterone is definitely more than a sex hormone. Testosterone receptor sites are located in cells throughoutthe body, including the heart and brain.
Testosterone helps with the following:
* Maintains muscle mass
* Aides in formation and stabilization of bone density
* Improves oxygen uptake throughout the body
* Regulates blood sugar control
* Maintains cholesterol
* Regulates immune system
* Improves oxygen uptake
* Improves energy
* Aides in neurological functioning, including memory and concentration
* Regulates mood and helps prevent depression
* Provides “zest for life” feelings
* Improves sexual response, including drive, performance, and sexual satisfaction
* Helps maintain heart health through stabilization of the heart muscle where many of the testosterone receptors are located
Many studies suggest that maintaining youthful levels of free testosterone can enable the aging man to restore strength, stamina, mental functioning, heart health, and sexuality, and to alleviate depression, avoid excess fat accumulation, and improve general mood and zest for life.
Hormone Testing for Men
Although testing men’s hormone levels is still not widely practiced, testing can be key to interpreting and relieving andropause symptoms.
Men who are experiencing three or four of the symptoms mentioned above could benefit from having their levels of the following hormones measured:
Hormones
* Complete blood count and chemistry profile
* Thyroid panel
* Free and total testosterone
* Estrodial (estrogen)
* DHT
* DHEA
* PSA
* Homocysteine
* Luteinizing hormone (optional)
* Sex Hormone Binding Globulin (SHGB) optional
Further testing can be done to measure vital nutrients and minerals that help sustain good hormone balance.
Suggestions for added supplements for optimal hormone balance could include:
* B-Complex
* Zinc
* Calcium/Magnesium
* Saw Palmetto
* Vitamin C
HOW ARE THE TESTS INTERPRETED?
Men must be treated on an individual basis with a comprehensive plan that considers their specific chemistry. It is of utmost importance that the levels be interpreted according to the man’s age and “optimal ranges” rather than just normal broad parameters.
A specially trained provider, such as those in our clinic, will note when a man’s testosterone level is at the lower end of the range. Ordinarily, if the measurement is at the lower end of normal, a man will be experiencing the effects of andropause. Raising the levels will help the patient to feel healthier and more energetic.
HOW IS A HORMONE IMBALANCE CORRECTED?
Synthetic testosterone replacement therapies exist. However, we favor nonsynthetic bio-identical testosterone replacement, which is the exact molecular structure as human testosterone. This formulation can be compounded in a pharmacy to meet individual needs. The doses can be easily altered to achieve optimal results.
Other factors to take into consideration when treating a male for hormone imbalance include diet, supplements that help with the appropriate conversion and metabolization of testosterone, stress management, exercise, and lifestyle changes that will lead to ultimate success.
WHAT ABOUT MALE HORMONE TESTING?
Our providers are specially trained to determine which hormone tests to order, how to evaluate the results, and what measures to prescribe or suggest to help patients achieve balance. We understand the physical and psychological changes that can take place during andropause, and that these changes can create stress and may cause embarrassment. That’s why we take special care to help our patients feel at ease when discussing their specific problems confidentially and in a comfortable professional setting.
Many of our male patients have discussed their positive outcomes with other men, who have subsequently made appointments for testing and treatment.
Because Ventana Wellness is a specialty practice as well as a family practice, we work independently to provide care that is covered by most insurance plans and does not require a medical referral unless designated by your insurance company.
To make an appointment for a personal consultation regarding male hormone evaluation, please call Ventana Wellness at 541-773-9772.
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