| While
the menopause in women has been the subject of many researches,
a parallel condition in men, called andropause, has only been
recently recognized. Andropause is also known as PADAM or Partial
Androgen Deficiency in Aging Male. It is caused by the decline
of androgen levels in their bodies. This may start as early as
thirty-five or as late as sixty-five. Most men, though, when they
reach the ages of forty to fifty-five, experience hormonal changes
similar to those felt by women who reach their menopause.
A man who is undergoing
his andropause will show the following symptoms: mood swings
or depression, weakness or decreased energy, irritability, inability
to concentrate, decreased muscle mass, increased fat such as
the beer belly, loss of memory, and the loss of libido or sexual
drive.
Can andropause be
stopped or slowed down? Not really. Andropause is a natural
process. A report from the World Health Organization (WHO) states
that the androgen level of man at the age of 70 is about ten
percent of the level he had when he was at his prime.
With andropause,
a man faces higher risks of cardiovascular diseases. Decreased
androgen leads to lower production of testosterone, another
male hormone. Low testosterone levels or hypogonadism can interfere
or slow down the functions of many body organs. This results
to fatigue, failure of memory, and passivity of an aging male
towards work, social life, and sex. The aging male may develop
clogged arteries, varicose veins, hemorrhoids, abdominal fat,
and high blood pressure. Hypogonadism is associated with melancholia
and psychiatric disturbances such as depression and psychosis.
Men with low testosterone levels are prone to osteoporosis and
hip fractures. Two of the most serious results of hypogonadism
are impotence and dwindling libido. But the worst effect is
called myocardial infarction, commonly known as heart attack.
Fortunately, such
dire consequences of andropause and hypogonadism can be prevented
hormone replacement therapies (HRT). Health professionals have
proven that a testosterone replacement therapy is safe for aging
men. This therapy will improve the cognition and libido of males.
It will increase bone mineral density and body mass composition.
Androgen replacement therapy can help a man cope with the symptoms
of andropause.
Aside from the hormonal
replacement therapies, aging men are also advised to have exercise.
Stress management skills are also recommended, especially if
the aging male is irritable. He should also take dietary supplements
so that he will have enough zinc, selenium, and, especially,
calcium.
Now that andropause
is a health issue recognized by many men, they should take the
necessary steps to help themselves weather such natural occurrence
in their lives. |
