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Menopause In Men: Male Menopause Is Real

Menopause is common knowledge amongst women, but you may not be aware that it can happen in men too. The signs and symptoms may be different, but they are very real and are something we should be aware of. It’s important to know that it’s going on, what to expect and how to handle it.

Why do some men experience menopause?  Androgen, commonly referred to as male menopause, is a common condition which is most commonly unnoticed by most of the male and female population.  It’s a real concern that more and more healthcare physicians are seeing in their male patients, however, it does not receive the same attention that women going through menopause do and so many individuals don’t even know that it exists. 

Men do experience a decline in the male hormone testosterone with aging.  This can also occur with some disease stages of diabetes.  Along with this, some men will experience fatigue, depression and sexual problems.
 
Studies about male menopause are still new and so there is some question as to the relationship between the decline of testosterone and the above mentioned feelings.  Male menopause may occur in men between the ages of 45 and 50 years old and more dramatically occur after the age of 70. 

A physical examination is typically performed by a doctor in order to diagnose male menopause.  Diagnostic tests may be ordered at this physical examination in order to rule out other disease and illnesses.  A series of blood tests will check several hormone levels, including testosterone. 

If testosterone levels are found to be low, testosterone replacement therapy may be implemented in order to help relieve symptoms.  Just like hormone replacement therapy in women, testosterone replacement therapy in men may have potential risks and side effects.

Side effects of testosterone replacement therapy

A hemorrhage from the use of too much anticoagulant (like heparin) can be a side effect caused by treatment going beyond the desired effect.  Side effects may include an increase in red blood cells, which can be effective if you are anemic, but potentially dangerous because too much blood can block your blood vessels, leading to heart attack or stroke. 

There may be prostate effects to testosterone replacement therapy.  There are no current studies or research that I can find regarding this side effect, but there is some concern because prostate cancer is fought by blocking testosterone.

Patients may also experience a skin reaction to testosterone replacement therapy, with a higher risk when using a patch and lowered risk when using a gel. 

Infertility, sleep apnea, fluid retention, acne, oily skin and increased body hair and flushing may also be more mild side effects of testosterone replacement therapy.   

Tags: Male Menopause, Men, Menopause, testosterone replacement thera

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