Symptoms of Andropause

What are the most common andropause symptoms?

Andropause, sometimes called "male menopause", can cause many undesirable symptoms or no symptoms at all. Testosterone levels naturally decrease over time in almost all men. About 30% of men age 50 and older will experience testosterone levels that are low enough to cause symptoms.

Younger men may also experience symptoms. Doctors, in the past, have sometimes confused a patient's andropause symptoms with other conditions. Mood swings and fatigue have been treated with anti-depressants; and insomnia with sleep aids. Many doctors now have short quizzes to help you -- and them -- determine if you are suffering from the symptoms of lower testosterone levels associated with andropause.

Male menopause signs...

The following is a list of symptoms that may be associated with andropause. Males may experience some, none or all of these symptoms as their testosterone levels decrease with age.

• fatigue or loss of energy
  
• moodiness, ranging from sadness to anger
  
• low sex drive
  
• inability to achieve or maintain an erection
  
• loss of physical agility
  
• nervousness
  
• unexplained weight gain or a reduction of muscle mass and an increase in body fat
  
• hair loss
  
• reduced muscle strength, particularly in the upper body
  
• mental fatigue or inability to concentrate
  
• poor sleep quality or insomnia
  

If you are looking for more information, several books have been written on the subject of andropause and the symptoms associated with it.

For example, "The Andropause Mystery: Unraveling the Truths about the Male Menopause" was written in 2001 by Robert S. Tan and probably contains the most up-to-date information.

"Causes and Solutions for Andropause" written by Eric Braveman in 1999 may also be helpful, particularly for males who have no andropause symptoms and are looking for healthy lifestyle suggestions.

According to a report published in the American Journal of Psychiatry in January of 2003, eight percent of all men over the age of 30 experience an episode of major depression. Evidence suggests that these episodes may be linked to the onset of male menopause and the symptoms caused by lower levels of testosterone in the bloodstream.

Men do not always see their doctor regularly. Some men do not have yearly physicals. This could be big mistake. See your doctor if you are male, over the age of 40 and concerned that you may be suffering from andropause symptoms.

A simple blood test can determine if your testosterone levels are lower than normal and if they are, your doctor will discuss testosterone replacement therapies with you, one of which may help put your life back on track.