Male “Menopause”…Is there such a thing?
Yes, of course, but it’s technically called hypogonadism (low testosterone). Symptoms can vary, but most men will experience decreased libido (libido) as well as erectile dysfunction, hot sweats, decreased body hair, fatigue or even depression. They also tend to lose muscle mass and gain weight due to increased subcutaneous fat.
Erectile dysfunction is a common condition in male patients over the age of 50, and although it is most often caused by problems such as vascular insufficiency (reduced blood flow) to the penis which Usually responds well to medications like Viagra, Cialis, or Levitra, your doctor should check for hypogonadism as a possible cause and also screen for cardiovascular disease and diabetes. Certain prescription medications can also cause problems with libido and sexual dysfunction. especially certain antidepressants and blood pressure medications.
Serum testosterone levels are highest between the ages of 20 and 30 and tend to decline gradually after age 40. If your testosterone levels come back low, your doctor may want to order a few more tests to determine the real cause.There are other causes of low testosterone other than just aging. If your testosterone levels are low and you are about to receive treatment, be sure to get tested for prostate cancer. The doctor should perform a digital rectal exam, order a PSA (prostate specific antigen) blood test, and the testicles should be examined for size, lumps, and other abnormalities.
Topical testosterone gel is generally the preferred method of administering the hormone. Topical 1% testosterone is available as Androgel or Testim. The initial dose is 5 g per day and is applied to dry skin on the abdomen, upper arm or shoulders.The gel must not be applied to the genitals! The skin should be allowed to dry and a shirt should be worn in case of contact with children or women as it is possible to transfer the medicine to another person’s skin. The serum testosterone level should be re-evaluated approximately two weeks after the start of treatment.
The administration of testosterone substitutes has NOT been shown to increase the incidence of prostate cancer, myocardial infarction, cardiovascular disease or stroke. It can however increase the level of PSA (prostate specific antigen).
Treatment has come a long way in recent years with the advent of topical applications. The testosterone was administered by intramuscular injection, which was both painful and had to be administered quite frequently as drug levels did not last long in the blood.Topical applications tend to maintain an even level of medication at all times without the peaks and dips caused by older injections.
Testosterone replacement should improve libido, muscle mass and well-being. It may aggravate sleep apnea, cause mild acne and gynecomastia (mild breast enlargement), but NOT at all.
It can make a man feel much more alive, improve his sex drive, ability and performance, and make life much more enjoyable overall.