Problems associated with female menopause have long been the subject of attention of gynecologists and endocrinologists, and significant progress has been made in this area using modern means and methods for correcting hormonal imbalances.
However, andropause in men has long remained outside the field of view of specialists. But this is no less serious problem, which also requires the attention of both doctors and psychologists.
Symptoms
Not only women have reason to complain about the changes that occur to them during menopause. Indeed, men also have a critical age, which is called andropause.
Usually this is due to a number of sexual problems that shake the psyche of a man.
Hormonal imbalances that occur in men with age lead to changes manifested by the accumulation of fat in the abdomen, a decrease and weakening of the muscles, a decrease in vitality and self-esteem, sometimes reaching depression, a decrease in libido and erectile function, an increase in the prostate gland with urination problems and an increased incidence of cardiovascular disease.
Manifestations of andropause are associated with a progressively decreasing level of free testosterone, while the level of estrogens (female sex hormones) remains the same or relatively increases.
After the age of 30, in men every 10 years, testosterone levels decrease by 10%. At the same time, another factor in the body called sex hormone globulin (SHBG) increases.
This factor binds part of the testosterone, and the remaining unbound hormone (free testosterone) is biologically active. The measurement of free testosterone, unbound or total, is crucial for assessing testosterone levels.
And the side effects
The immune system is strongly affected. Infections and viral diseases are becoming more frequent. Equally problematic are sexual problems, obesity, which often causes cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes.
Knowledge in the field of experimental medicine, endocrinology, increasing the availability and diagnostic capabilities of hormonal studies, as well as the creation of effective drugs for the correction of hormonal disorders already allow us to successfully solve the problems of men in old age.
Low testosterone levels are the root cause of a number of physical, mental and emotional changes in older men.
These include the lack of ability to concentrate, low mood and emotionality, leading to depression, irritability, anxiety, general weakness and fatigue, memory disorders, hypochondria, decreased interest in others.
Lack of adequate testosterone levels is the cause of serious sexual problems. In these cases, problems are associated with a decrease in desire (libido) for sexual intercourse and erectile dysfunction.
Elevated estrogen also contributes to sexual dysfunction, as estrogen molecules block testosterone receptors, thereby preventing the biochemical effects of testosterone on nerves, blood vessels, and muscles.
What is the solution to the problem?
Men over the age of 50 who complain of such disorders may see a doctor if their quality of life is seriously impaired. About 30% of 50-year-old men have well-defined symptoms.
There are specialized offices that provide advice on andropause problems. Consultation with a doctor is very important because it is dangerous to take hormonal drugs at your own discretion. They must be prescribed by a doctor. Self-diagnosis and self-treatment of the symptoms of andropause is not only unacceptable, but can also be dangerous.
Treatment for andropause includes testosterone replacement therapy, testosterone stimulating drugs, estrogen and DHT suppressing drugs, nutritional supplements, diet and lifestyle.
Patients with prostate and breast cancer are contraindicated in hormone replacement therapy.
To achieve maximum effectiveness of treatment and exclude risk factors for the activation of undiagnosed prostate tumors, a number of tests should be done before starting treatment, as well as an examination of the prostate gland. In the process of hormonal treatment, control hormonal studies are done every 30-45 days until the 5th month, and then every 6 months.
you can help yourself
A healthy lifestyle is definitely beneficial. It can well influence many of the disorders prevented by andropause. Sports, healthy eating and regular rest are just some of the tips from experts.
Walking in nature energizes and gives you the opportunity to play sports. Taking appropriate vitamins and herbal supplements is also a good idea.
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