Discover the Truth About Testosterone and how It Affects Men...
Men like women experience a change in hormone levels known as andropause or some clinicians have labeled the transition ADAM-“androgen decline in aging men". It is defined by a decrease in androgens, male hormones; sexuality and overall energy. Some have remarked “this is puberty in reverse".
In 1944 male menopause was first described in an article by two American doctors, Carl Heller and Gordon Myers. Unfortunately, the topic was quickly brushed under the rug and a climate of denial was experienced versus an open forum for discussion. Was it a factor of virility?
The male menopause is less dramatic than the cessation of menses for a woman. Typical ages for onset are 31-80 with the average being around 40 years of age. The duration ranges from 5-15 years. Approximately 40% of men 40-60 years of age will experience some degree of symptoms.
Seven areas of life can be affected:
Hormonal, physical, psychological, interpersonal, sexual, social, and spiritual. For many men this transition will be met with denial or misunderstanding. However, when a man and his partner explore the transition and life changing developments an opportunity for communication and understanding and possibly intervention with hormones of life style changes can bring new life and energy forth.
By age 55, even healthy men experience a significant lowering of the testosterone in their blood stream compared to a 45 year-old male. By age 80, most male hormone levels decrease to the pre-puberty level. (www.andrology.com)
In fact, 25 million men in the US age 40-55 experience male menopause today and the numbers will double within the baby boomer community!
Typical symptoms are:
1. Decrease sex drive
2. Lack of energy
3. Decrease in strength and/or endurance
4. Lost height
5. Decrease “enjoyment of life"
6. Sad and/or grumpy
7. Erections less strong
8. Deterioration in sports ability
9. Falling asleep after dinner
10. Decrease work performance
So if you find yourself among the many men facing this natural hormonal shift, seek professional advice, read additional articles and look for options to enhance your well-being!
The Truth About Testosterone
Are you one of the millions of men who may have low testosterone? Between two and four million men in the US alone suffer below-normal testosterone levels, a condition known as hypogonadism.
It is a problem that get progressively more common as men age, though it can strike a man at any age for a variety of reasons. It is estimated that only 5% of the millions of men with low testosterone are currently being treated.
Men with below-normal testosterone experience the following:
low interest in sex
tiredness
muscle weakness
erectile dysfunction
weight gain, particularly around the waist
reduced bone density
depression or mood changes
irritability
loss of endurance
Research has confirmed that testosterone supplements can reduce those symptoms in many who suffer from below-normal testosterone. But the benefits and risks remain controversial. Seek out a clinician and discuss testing and a candid discussion of your options. Don't let below-normal testosterone rob you of life's joys.