Low Testosterone in Men: AKA Andropause

Andropause happens in men, is often not talked about, and is the result of decreasing testosterone and DHEA levels in the blood, and ultimately the tissues/organs.  Andropause causes physical and psychological problems including but are not limited to: weight gain and uneven weight distribution, depression, mood changes, anxiety, fatigue, decreased concentration, decreased muscle strength, and hot flashes.  Not only does it correlate with the development of chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, osteoporosis, and cancer, it significantly affects quality of life and marital satisfaction.  According to the literature, starting at age 30, testosterone levels begin to decrease by 1 % per year (by age 50 that means testosterone may have declined by 20 %).  Low testosterone becomes a vicious cycle in a man’s life but it can be corrected.

Identifying andropause, educating the public about it, and helping men with hormone replacement is one of the most important things we can do as a health promotional tool in men’s health.  In treating andropause, a thorough health history of symptoms and serum blood work is completed.

Bioidentical testosterone and pregnenolone are two treatments I offer for men with low testosterone levels.  If you have further questions or want to discuss andropause and/or treatment options, please contact me through email, phone call or text message.  BHRT appointments can be covered under your health spending account, and the hormones may be covered under your drug plan.  See my blog for more information.