What is Andropause?
Andropause is a collection of symptoms. Symptoms include fatigue and a decrease in libido. Generally, male menopause is experienced by men 40 and older. However, it can to men in their 30’s. Symptoms are linked to a gradual decline in testosterone levels.
Testosterone is a hormone. Firstly, it plays a key role in the changes of a male during puberty. Secondly, Testosterone allows a man to maintain muscle mass and strength. Additionally, it is responsible for facial hair, body hair, and deepening of a boys voice. As a man gets older, his testosterone level goes down. Consequently, andropause symptoms are often felt.
Can you feel symptoms of Low Testosterone?
It is common for men to feel symptoms of low testosterone. As mentioned before, symptoms begin as early as age 30. Approximately 40% of men 40 years of age and older have symptoms of Low T. Additionally, Low T affects about 5 million men every year. Low testosterone is called andropause, male menopause or Low T.
Causes of Low Testosterone
Aging most often causes Low T. However, other factors can contribute to a drop in male hormone levels. Additional factors include, Alcohol intake, Injury, Obesity, Stress, and Medications. Finally, steroid use at a young age may also contribute to the onset of male menopause.
Symptoms of Low T
- Loss of Muscle and Strength
- Higher Body Fat and Belly Fat
- Low Sex Drive
- Mood Swings
- Low Energy Levels
- Erectile Dysfunction
- Difficult to Focus or Concentrate
Benefits of Testosterone Replacement
- Increased muscle mass and strength
- Increased athletic performance
- Decreased body fat and reduction in belly fat
- Bone Density Improvements in Hips and Spine
- Increased Libido as well as frequency of sex and night time erections
- Better Mood and Focus
- Improved Insulin Sensitivity
- Noticeable sense of well being
How long does it take to feel improvement with treatment?
Everyone is different. In general, you may feel better two to three weeks after starting treatment. Other benefits can take longer. It is important to have regular bloodwork while on treatment to avoid risks and to get optimal results. Specifically, close monitoring of testosterone, estradiol, prostate specific antibodies and blood cell counts will help the physician make adjustments in treatment to correct levels which will improve your treatment outcome.
Do You Have Symptoms?
Recognizing symptoms of Low T is the first step! After that, is easy to schedule a telehealth visit, or come in for a consultation. Your blood will be drawn and serum testosterone level will be checked. Subsequently, if your level is low, you may be a candidate for treatment. According to the US Food and Drug Administration, serum testosterone is the standard test to show if you have low testosterone.