Low Testosterone

Low Testosterone & Andropause: More Than a Midlife Crisis

Andropause is a phenomenon that affects men as they approach middle age, beginning around age 40. Often called the male version of menopause, andropause marks the time of life when men begin to experience a drop in testosterone levels, often resulting in mild to severe physical and mental side effects. However, unlike women who lose their fertility during menopause, men do not have a physical milestone to mark the experience, and thus may not be aware of what is happening, or why.

When andropause occurs, it can bring on changes in mood and attitude, as well as:

• Fatigue
• Loss of energy
• Changes in sex drive and physical endurance
• Irritability
• Weight gain
• Memory loss
• Diminished libido
• Hair loss
• Erectile dysfunction
• Hot flashes
• Muscle loss
• Depression
• Fatigue
• Night sweats
• Gynecomastia (male breasts)

This decline in testosterone may put men at risk for health problems, including heart disease and weak bones. However, because the timing of andropause coincides with a period when men are sometimes questioning their values and life trajectory, changes in mood and attitude may not be entirely credited to hormonal issues.

While a loss of testosterone is common to nearly all men as they age, not all men will experience this change or to a degree that affects their day-to-day experience. Factors that may contribute to the onset of andropause include:

• Psychological stress
• Surgery or injuries
• Alcohol abuse
• Medications
• Obesity/infections
• Poor diet and lack of exercise

There is no way to predict whether a man will develop symptoms that require medical intervention. However, if you are experiencing unpleasant symptoms as a result of andropause, our team at Water’s Edge Natural Medicine can help.

Treatments

What if there was a treatment that could help to relieve the effects of andropause and keep your testosterone going strong? Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy can help by replacing the hormones your body is no longer producing with hormones found in nature and synthesized to match your own. Our team cares about your health and is committed to helping you rediscover your most vital self. We take the time to listen to both your symptoms and medical history and come up with a treatment plan. In addition, we offer acupuncture, herbal remedies, and nutritional counseling, all of which can help bring your body back into balance. Contact us today!