Wednesday, February 23, 2011

Link Between Male Menopause and Depression

Although it is not widely discussed, male menopause is a real problem for many men. Approximately 40% of men in their 40s, 50s, and 60s suffer from some form of male menopause. Male depression associated with male menopause can be difficult to diagnosis. First of all, the symptoms of depression resulting from male menopause are different from the symptoms of traditional depression. Also, a large percentage of men are reluctant to discuss their feelings, fearing that they will be looked down upon or ridiculed.
Just like women, men experience a phase similar to female menopause. As men age, the levels of hormones produced by a man's body gradually declines. This can have a serious impact on the male's body, emotional state, and sexual behavior.
Men suffering from male depression tend to be irritable, defensive, and angry. They also can be restless and agitated, consumed with self-doubt. Unlike regular depression, they do not sleep too much. Instead, they sleep too little, making their irritability more intensified. They may also be suspicious of others and believe that their situation would be improved if other people would only care about them more.
Another problem associated with male menopause and depression is sexual dysfunction. If a man is having problems with his self-confidence and self-worth, sexual impotence can result in more negative feelings. While this can be an easily corrected problem, many men do not seek medical help. In general, men are very reluctant to discuss sexual impotence with their doctor. This reluctance only prolongs the situation, creating a cycle of depression.
If this depression goes untreated, it can lead to serious consequences. Studies have shown that the suicide rate for men at midlife is three times higher than the national norm. For men 65 or older, the suicide rate is seven times higher than the national norm.
As you can see, it is vital that men feeling the symptoms of male depression seek immediate medical help. Be advised that it can take a very long time to receive a diagnosis of male depression, but in the meantime, you will get help with your symptoms. If you make an appointment to talk with your doctor and find your doctor is dismissive, make an appointment to see another doctor.
Depression resulting from male menopause is a very real and serious medical condition that can be treated successfully. All it takes is the right doctor and persistence.

Tuesday, February 22, 2011

Do you think Male Menopause Symptoms Exist

There have been jokes about it for years - that the "men" in menopause means that it really does apply to men. People are usually kidding when they talk about a man going through the "change of life," but it is not a joke. It is not an urban legend or myth. Those male menopause symptoms that you think you are seeing in your husband, or your father, or your brother - that really is what they are. That is right, guys go through it too, but do not go expecting them to say so. Unfortunately, there is a female stigma attached to the whole idea of menopause. It is however becoming more widely recognized, that men do indeed go through a change of their own. One of the things that may make it easier to talk about if you are a man and you are going through this, is simply to understand it.
First of all, it may make you more comfortable to know that the term andropause is frequently a substitute for "male menopause." Really, when you think about it, it is natural that both genders go through this. After all, man or woman, we all get older, our bodies get older, and certain changes are bound to happen. In this case, during andropause, your body starts producing less testosterone - maybe. You see, unlike it is for women, not all guys will experience a male menopause. Why? No one is really sure. All that is really known is that the lower levels of testosterone bring it on in some men. That is not really a surprise. Testosterone is your primary hormone. Without it, you would not be able to produce sperm, you would not have any urge to procreate - a very ingrained trait - and you would not be nearly as strong as you are. So the reduction of this hormone affects you in much the same way women are affected when their bodies begin producing less estrogen. Andropause can begin when you are in your twenties, making your testosterone gradually lessen.
Fundamentally, we do not really understand why or how male menopause occurs. However, certain things can happen in your life which will trigger it to start. These are mostly health related problems, some of them physical and some of them mental. Certain illness and depression can trigger andropause. Dementia can also act as a catalysts. Health problems that somehow affect testosterone on their own can play a part in male menopause as well. Cardiovascular disease, autoimmune deficiencies, and cancer are some of the most notable of these.
There are a lot of similarities and differences between what women go through and what men do when they experience menopause. The similarities exist because, in both cases, the act is related to hormones, and so produces primarily hormonal responses. The differences lie in the fact that women and men are, of course, quite different. The main difference is that women cannot have children any longer after menopause. On the other hand, a man will always retain some level of fertility. That is how men in their eights have gone on to father children.
Still and all, the symptoms of male menopause are very similar to female symptoms. The difference is that men experience them on a lesser level. Commonly, men going through andropause are just as prone to hot flashes and night sweats. Insomnia coupled with fatigue are extremely common, even expected, as are sore muscles and joints, lack of motivation, and mood swings.
For different reasons, men going through menopause are also affected sexually. Although they may indeed notice a lack of interest, the primary problem is more likely to be physical. That is, menopause men can have erectile problems.

Monday, February 21, 2011

Early Signs of Male Menopause

Ladies, the so-called mid-life crisis that many men experience is not our imagination and neither is it theirs. As has been suspected some, but not all, men will suffer male menopause. If you know someone who may be in male menopause understanding it may help you to help them. It is also important that you encourage the men in your life that may have symptoms, to discuss them with their doctor.
About Male Menopause
Male menopause is also called andropause. In men hormone levels are at the peak somewhere between 15 and 19. When men reach their late 20's testosterone levels begin to slowly decrease but normally stay within healthy limits. In his 40's or 50's up to half the men who suffer andropause will report uncomfortable symptoms. This helps to support a healthy sex drive, the generation and production of sperm. This can allow a man to father children well into his eighties.
All women at some point in time will go through menopause which is the cessation of fertility and menstrual cycles. Not all men will go through andropause. It is not known why andropause affects the men it does affect.
Causes of Male Menopause
In some men menopause/andropause will occur naturally. In other men there can be underlying triggers. Illness can affect hormone levels. Depression, dementia, and obesity can also be triggers of andropause. Heart and lung diseases and autoimmune disease may go through andropause. A physical and tests run by your doctor can help determine if a man is in andropause or suffering with another health condition.
Early Signs of Male Menopause
Male menopausal symptoms are very similar to female menopause but much less intense.
Have you noticed a man or men in your life being a bit more forgetful, irritable, or exhibit a low energy level? These symptoms could be early signs of male menopause.
Male symptoms can include hot flashes and night sweats. Fatigue, joint pains, and muscle aches are also possible. On the emotional side men can have mood swings, become more irritable, and experience depression. They may appear to lose interest in sex or have difficulty with weak erections. They could feel like they no longer enjoy sex.
Many men don't like talking about their symptoms but should be encouraged to do so with the doctor at the onset of these symptoms to rule out other health conditions with similar symptoms.
Treatments of Male Menopause
It is also true that for treating early signs/symptoms of male menopause, hormone replacement therapy is the traditional choice of treatment. Testosterone replacement can reduce the symptoms for men. Erectile dysfunction treatments can also help to reduce treatments.
Men as well as women can choose natural treatments such as herbal supplementation.
The herbs should be tested at the molecular level to determine their metabolic paths and the interactions of the ingredients should also be examined. Only standardized herbal extracts should be used with no fillers or preservatives. When they are being made they should be made to meet pharmaceutical grade standards. This helps to guarantee the consumer consistent dosing and consistent quality from capsule to capsule. As always do not add herbal supplements to your regime without letting your know about it. Some herbs may affect how any prescriptions you may be taking.

Friday, February 18, 2011

Menopause and Men's Sexual Dysfunction

Are you a male who is over 40 years of age? Are you having difficulty in controlling urine? What of the lack of desire for sex, are you unable to sustain an erect penis when it is most needed? You are not alone. Out of every 1,000 men, there are 350 who cannot satisfy their women sexually because they just are not attracted or cannot complete the game!
Knowing how much power and a feeling of good health that good sex brings to a man and woman, you know that all must be done to prevent or reverse male sexual dysfunction. You need to know the facts before you decide on what to do.
What is male menopause: this refers to changes in the androgen or sex hormone levels in a man of older age, usually more than 40 years of age that results in changes in sexual performance. It can also delay and occur at the age of 65 years.
Is every man likely to have male menopause: Yes, the chances are as good as 95% that at some stage in life, that is if you long enough beyond 40 years, you would get the menopause and related sexual dysfunction.
Can one prevent it? Not really prevention, rather it would be to delay it. There are a number of things or action that you can take to delay the hormonal imbalance.
  • Eat well: avoid junk foods and eat more of homemade farm foods. These would supply you with the appropriate amino acids and vitamins required for production of the sex hormones such as testosterone well into the old age.
  • Exercise: sex if high energy activity. You therefore have to keep the body in a good shape to defer the onset of the male sexual dysfunction in menopause.
  • Spice up your sex life: going out for nights in camps and other unique places would spur the desire for sex.
  • Treat diseases or manage them appropriately: illnesses such as diabetes are known to reduce libido in men if not managed properly.
  • See a medical doctor: speak about your sexual problem to your physician. If there is a medical condition it can be reversed. Also visiting sex therapists can help, they know something that you do not know.

Is Male Hormone Replacement Therapy Safe

The male hormone replacement industry has been hit hard recently by continued scandal in professional sports. For companies that specialize in treating low testosterone and other male hormone deficiencies, having continued bad publicity in the media have made many men question what type of association they want to have with companies that provide hormone replacement therapy services. Leaders in this industry have been answering customer calls about the safety of hormone treatment programs for years.
For purposes of this article treating men with hormone replacement therapy will be reserved to treating the cause of symptoms of andropause, also called male menopause. Below are symptoms commonly associated with andropause:
- Depression
- Sweating and hot flashes
- Decreased male sex drive and erectile dysfunction
- Fatigue
- Poor concentration and memory
- Muscle and joint aches
- Mood swings
If you believe you have andropause, you can confirm the potential diagnosis with a blood test.
For years the public has been aware of a menopause in women. It has only been in recent time the term "andropause" is beginning to get the full attention it deserves. The most common cause of andropause is low testosterone levels, which can be easily diagnosed with a blood test. Other symptoms of andropause are similar to a women's menopause, which is a reason why andropause is sometimes called "male menopause."
There are a lot of sources for treating the symptoms of andropause and among untrained professionals that do not work with andropause patients on a daily basis, they can at times, do more harm than good. It is very important that you find a qualified physician.
OTC (over the counter) remedies tend to be ineffective for men who are showing symptoms.
Your Family Doctor can Misdiagnose Andropause Symptoms:
It seems counterintuitive that your family doctor can do more harm than good, but it is true when it comes to diagnosing and treating the symptoms of andropause. He may try to treat your symptoms individually such as a prescription for erectile dysfunction, e.g, Viagra and another prescription for depression rather than correcting the cause -- hormone deficiency such as testosterone and thyroid. Treating the cause will correct the symptoms .
Treat Andropause with Male Hormone Therapy:
Treating andropause with male hormone replacement therapy is safe when diagnosed properly and monitored regularly. Testosterone replacement in the form of testosterone creams and testosterone supplements is a safe method to treat the low testosterone deficiencies that are the source of andropause. Other treatments may include, thyroid, HGH (human growth hormone), an estrogen blocker and other supplements that are appropriate to your individualized plan.
What to look for in a Male Hormone Replacement Therapy Provider:
1. Look for a male hormone replacement therapy program that is tailored to your specific and individualized needs.
2. Ensure your hormone program is under the supervision of a physician that is trained in hormone deficiencies in men.
3. Monitoring of your hormone levels. The original test for andropause should only be the first in a series of tests. You will want to have your blood tested periodically to ensure the current program is optimized for your individual needs.
4. Experience. Be sure the entity with whom you work has a solid track record. If they are trying to sell you hormones -- be careful. If they are telling you what they do and how it relates to you needs in an informational frame work -- be hopeful and encouraged.

Thursday, February 17, 2011

Overcoming Male Menopause With Natural Supplements

In our society, mid life crisis has been thought to be a rite of passage for most men for quite some time. When a man reaches his middle years, he may start thinking about his younger days in a wistful manner. Moodiness, a change in his usual behavior patterns, and symptoms of depression may be exhibited, and he may just appear to not be himself. Mid life crisis is probably a label that not accurately define what men are experiencing at this time of their lives. The symptoms are really more serious than "mid life crisis" suggests. Are you aware of the term male menopause ? Many men who have heard of male menopause will sneer at the very thought of this possibility, even more so if they think someone is referring to them, regardless of the reality of the situation. This article discusses the reasons people disregard it, the important reasons for taking it seriously, and how supplementing your diet with human growth hormone supplements, such as Provacyl, can be beneficial.
Many men think that the very thought of experiencing male menopause is somewhat emasculating. All things considered, this is reasonable. Men do not menstruate, yet the definition of menopause is "cessation of menstruation," something that doesn't apply here. They don't menstruate. So, something that never started cannot end. The term "andropause", which refers to the hormone androgen, is a much more accurate term for this phenomenon. This hormone is very important in males and females.
The kind of menopause that women experience is very similar to andropause in men. As males and females are essentially very dissimilar, they will experience the process quite differently. However, the number of comparable symptoms may surprise you. As mentioned before, mood swings have been observed in andopausal men, as with menopausal women, which is why the phenomenon has often been misinterpreted as a mid life crisis. An increase in weight is commonly symptomatic; middle aged men experience andropause, and the rate of metabolism slows, as the pituitary gland reduces its production of human growth hormone. A noticeable lack of energy occurs that affects daily activities and those performed in the privacy of the bedroom. The risk of depression, insomnia, which is very common, and problems with concentration are all symptomatic.
For quite some time, women have had different hormone replacement therapies available to them for minimizing or eliminating the symptoms of menopause. The was little or no treatment protocol available to andropausal men, because, andropause was not recognized as an issue of any consequence until recently. Currently, there is an assortment of supplements containing human growth hormones, which can behave similar to estrogen supplementation in menopausal females. Human growth hormone supplements, such as Provacyl, provide stimulus to the pituitary gland. This stimulates it to naturally produce more human growth hormone. Human growth hormone is present in all humans. We produce less HGH as we age, and this is reflected in the symptoms experienced in menopause and in andropause. The symptoms are reversed when HGH production increases through treatment with supplements such as Provacyl.
Andropausal men who take Provacyl for treatment of their symptoms, find that they have significantly more energy... for all sorts of activities Their metabolic rate increases, making it easier to build muscle and lose weight than before treatment. They will also have more stable temperaments and feel calmer and more relaxed.

What You Can Do About Male Menopause

For the people that are reading that title and think that it doesn't exist, you are actually wrong. Male menopause is real, and it is called Andropause. It happens around middle age, just as it does with women, and it has many of the same symptoms that female menopause has. This includes weight gain, hormonal changes, low energy, fatigue, emotional changes, and lack of sex drive.
The difference between menopause and andropause is that for men their testosterone levels decrease over time and not all of a sudden like women. It may start at around age 30 and continue until they have little sex drive and a lot of fatigue. This is what men usually notice because they are used to having a high sex drive. Instead of thinking that it is just age and you have to get used to it, it is time to do something about it.
You do not have to resign yourself to living a life without sex and testosterone levels. You should first consult your doctor to see if your levels of testosterone are extremely low. Depending on what they say you may be prescribed testosterone replacement therapy to raise the levels and get you to feeling like you used to. Although it does help to raise the testosterone, it comes at a price. You can have side effects such as acne, sleep problems, prostate growth, as well as other things. You may want to consider something more natural that can accomplish the same thing. Natural supplements are available that work with your body and not against it.
There is a hormonal balance supplement which is herbal so that it nourishes and supports the reproductive system. It brings back your sexual function and gives you back your libido. It also helps to enhance your sex life by giving you more pleasure and higher sensations of feeling during sex. It has worked for a long time to bring out a product that works well to make you feel young again. It is considered one of the best herbal supplements on the market.
Along with that you may want to consider another product that helps other aspects of your life as well. With a human growth hormone as well, such as an HGH replacement supplement, you can help to produce more testosterone which helps you feel more youthful, as well as giving you higher energy levels, and even more sexual benefits. It is a master hormone of sorts that can help you sleep better, exercise more, feel better, and even think better. Within the first month of taking it you may even notice you have lost weight and become much more fit then before.
All in all, when you are trying to get out of the stage of menopause you have to do something about it. Don't let this stage of your life bring about a lack of self confidence or depression. Just as women can do something about their menopause, men can also feel instant relief by taking herbal products of their own.

Wednesday, February 16, 2011

Male Menopause - The True Facts

It used to be thought that only women experienced the menopause, usually around the age of forty or more when the menstrual cycle stops taking place and pregnancy is no longer possible. All manner of emotions are felt during this time as the hormone levels of the female body drop and this is often known to bring on depression, hot flashes, irritability and quite extreme mood swings.
These days, however, it would appear that men also go through a similar situation. This is referred to as the male menopause or the andropause and it happens when men reach between forty five and sixty years of age as production of testosterone, the male hormone decreases. This does not, however, prevent the male from continuing to have children.
The idea of the existence of the male menopause has exposed the myth about men being ageless as far as sexual activity is concerned. In fact, unlike women who tend to experience mid life crises during the menopause, many men seem to adapt the attitude that life is just beginning. This is the reason that the male menopause has raised so many controversial issues both socially and within the medical field too.
So what are the true facts of the male menopause? Is the male menopause real or simply a way of getting even? What symptoms are likely to be experienced if the condition is genuine and which outside elements contribute to the condition? Most importantly, can it be treated? The answers to the above-mentioned questions along with clarifications of some of the controversial issues connected to this phenomenon can be found by reading on through this article.
The Male Menopause - Reality or Fairy Tale?
It is fair to say that the male menopause does, in fact, exist. Nonetheless, the degree of intensity by which it affects men is not the same as women. The symptoms detailed below are experienced at varying levels from hardly noticeable to quite extreme.
Symptoms
Many of the physical and psychological symptoms experienced are similar to those felt by women during their menopause. Hot flushes, loss of strength and endurance, irritability, lethargy, mood swings, libido reduction and erectile dysfunction, along with insomnia and a loss of bone and body mass are just some of the issues which may arise in men between forty and sixty years of age going through the male menopause.
How to Cope with the Male Menopause
It's really no easier coping with the male menopause than it is the female menopause but finding new ways to alleviate stress, say by massage, yoga or taking up and new sport or hobby will certainly improve matters. It's also advisable to eat a balanced diet trying to reduce your alcohol and caffeine intake, take regular exercise and get plenty of quality sleep as these things will all help you to cope with the menopause a little easier.
Menopause Treatment
TRT or to give it its full name, Testosterone Replacement Therapy is often an effective method of treating symptoms such as tiredness, depression and a reduced libido. However, there are potential side effects with TRT, for example, a risk of prostate cancer so a full and thorough medical check up should take place prior to opting for this kind of treatment.
Many men have to face the reality of going through the male menopause, but remember, if you are unlucky enough to be one of those who suffer with intense symptoms, there is no need for despair as there are several things you can do to help you get through this difficult time.

Tuesday, February 15, 2011

Know Menopause and Symptoms

To know menopause and symptoms, one should understand healthy and normal menopause symptoms and unhealthy health conditions.
To know menopause and symptoms means realizing that as a woman ages, the reproductive system will slow and eventually shut down. The woman's regular menstrual cycle will become lighter and less frequent and will eventually cease functioning. This menopause symptom is normal and expected when the woman is in her late 40's or early 50's.
The problem is -- a woman should know menopause and symptoms that mean there are underlying health problems, the most common being a condition called 'hormone imbalance'. Certain symptoms of menopause are signs that health problems exist that should be corrected. If not, the woman is at higher risk for more serious health problems.
Here are examples of such symptoms:
1 - A craving for sweets and/or carbohydrates, accompanied by fluctuating blood sugar levels
2 - Hair growth on the face
3 - Loss of hair or thinning hair
4 - Sluggishness, lack of energy
5 - Urinary tract infections or yeast infections
6 - Fibroids
7 - Weight gain, especially in the hips, waist and stomach, with no change in dietary habits
To know menopause and symptoms, one should know that many women in the western industrialized countries experience one or more of these symptoms of menopause much earlier than the average age of menopause which is about 51 in the USA. A crucial question that should be answered is -- what is a leading cause of menopause symptoms in women?
The answer is related to hormone imbalance. Hormone imbalance can be caused by stress, obesity, poor nutrition, excess estrogen and the lack of ovulation and progesterone. Is it possible to know menopause and symptoms and the role of hormone imbalance in causing premature menopause symptoms? The answer is -- YES!
There is an online test for a woman's hormone health related to menopause and symptoms that can indicate hormones are out of balance. The most frequent condition is too much estrogen and too little progesterone, the two basic hormones required for a healthy woman. This health test has been developed by a leading womens health clinic, it is used in their practice every day, it's available to women online and is free.
If you're a woman in your 30's, 40's or older and you sense your health is not what it should be, take the womens health test online and see what the clinic recommends for your health situation. Understanding what is healthy and normal and what is not is vital when the issue is your energy, your health and well-being.

Low Testosterone Treatment to Get Over Male Menopause

Male menopause is not something out of a fiction book. Low levels of testosterone results in a lot of changes in your body as well as behavior. Andropause or Male Menopause are the terms that are used to describe this medical condition that is associated with a drop in your Testosterone levels.
More and more men are now experiencing a drop in their T-levels. It seems to be an increasing trend. It is known that almost 15 mill men over the age of 30 in US alone have low testosterone levels and what is disturbing is that they are not even aware of this.
One of the most common sign of low testosterone levels is a drop in libido or sex drive. Often men wonder, why they lose their interest in sex. Sex is something that they almost always found exciting. However, things take a downward trend with age and there are times when you do not even feel like talking of sex. Not just this, it is also extremely common for men to experience erectile dysfunction and the main reasons behind this can be a drop in your testosterone levels.
Sudden weight gain and a belly bulge, reduced stamina and energy, loss of lean muscles, depression and mood swings are other effects of low T-levels.
If you have been experiencing some or all of the above, its time to consider low testosterone treatment.
Low Testosterone Treatment
Testosterone injections can help increase the level of testosterone in your body almost immediately. You need to take such injections are per the advice of an expert doctor and under his supervision. Such injections can result in an immediate rush and men love the sudden feeling of well being. However, this does not last for long and more importantly, it comes accompanied with a lot of side effects.
Such injections can be quite painful. In fact, you can feel the pain even weeks after you have had the injection. Not only this, it can also result in adverse changes in blood lipids.
Besides such injections, there are testosterone tablets and gels that can also help boost your T-levels but even they are not free of side effects.
Natural Treatment to Boost Testosterone
Fortunately, testosterone is a hormone whose production in your body can be increased naturally. A healthy and active lifestyle can play a major role in ensuring optimum testosterone production in your body. Regular and intense workouts, adequate diet, proper sleep and rest, reduced stress etc., are some of the key factors that can help boost your testosterone levels.
In addition to the above, natural testosterone supplements can also be a big help.
Such supplements pack in the most effective testosterone boosting herbs and other nutrients that stimulate leydig cells in your testes to produce more testosterone. 
The best part is that such supplements do not have any side effects. They are 100% natural and do not require a prescription. They can ensure a whole body makeover for men so that you get back your raging libido and rock solid erections. Not just this, such supplements can also make you get a more fit, muscular and leaner body with reduced fat and increased muscle.

Monday, February 14, 2011

For Male Menopause Treatments

Male menopause, also andropause, is a reality of life for men as they age. Many men suffer low testosterone levels after the age of 45. The best remedy for male menopause, however, is not necessarily testosterone injections. For many men, all that is needed is diet.
Unlike menopause in women, menopause in men is a process of gradual decline without clear beginning and end. Males lose interest in sex. They lose physical agility. They feel tired all the time. There is no single medical test that can identify the onset of andropause, but there are symptoms that usually relate to changes in male hormone levels. Men can ask themselves these questions:
  • Do you feel tired after eating?
  • Do you have problems with attention, focus, and memory?
  • Are your breasts larger than they used to be?
  • Are your erections smaller than they used to be?
  • Do have less interest in sex than when you were younger?
  • Does your non-erect sex organ seem smaller than it used to be?
  • Do you need a lot of sleep even when you are not physically active?
  • Have you been treated for broken or fractured bones?
The more questions men answer "yes," the more likely there is an underlying hormonal issue. All of these symptoms all can be tied to declining levels of testosterone. Testosterone replacement, however, is not the first line of treatment.The first line of treatment for men's midlife decline is diet. That's because fat cells make estrogen. The more fat a man accumulates, the more estrogen his body makes. The fat cells in a man's buttocks, by the way, destroy testosterone 1000 per cent faster than belly fat.
Hormone production in the fat cells is not a continuous process, so symptoms may get better and then get worse. The first thing to do, however, is to lose weight with a low-calorie diet to deprive fat of the fuel it needs to make female sex hormones.
Just do it gently. Fat cells are reservoirs for xenoestrogens, the chemical compounds in our polluted environment that mimic the effects of the hormones in women's bodies. These include the growth hormones fed to industrially produced cows, pigs, chickens, and turkeys, the phthalates used to make plastics, and a variety of paints, solvents, and plasticizers, as well as gasoline.
You don't want these chemicals pouring into your system faster than your liver can detoxify them. That's why men need to lose weight naturally and at a reasonable rate. If you choose to lose your pounds fast, at least choose natural methods.

Male Menopause - Erection Effects

Though it's rarely spoken about, males can also experience menopause. About 40 percent of men between the ages of 40 and 60, suffer from male menopausal symptoms, which are somewhat similar to female menopause symptoms.
This form of menopause found in men is known as andropause, and also referred to as male midlife crisis, which is brought on because of a decline in the production of testosterone. It is generally advised to seek medical help if you suspect that you may be experiencing male menopausal symptoms, just to make sure that there isn't anything else wrong that may be showing the same symptoms.
When men are between the ages of 40 and 50, they begin to experience a gradual decline in testicular function. This decrease leads to a decrease in hormonal levels as well, which in turn dampens the testosterone production in the male body. When this happens, male menopausal symptoms begin to take effect. The difference with males going through menopause however is that women will have their child bearing days brought to an abrupt end, while men will only have a decline in the function their testes.
Andropause symptoms are rarely as severe as female menopausal symptoms. It is still advised however that a doctor is visited just to be on the safe side if you suspect that you may be experiencing any symptoms. Conditions such as lupus, mumps, diabetes and testicular injury are known to show the exact same signs as male menopausal symptoms.
Fatigue is generally the most prolific of Andropause. This fatigue can be very severe and may lead to the individual feeling sorry for themselves, and at times even lead to depression. Joint pains, though not always present, can be a sign of male menopausal symptoms. The changes in hormonal levels can also lead to hot flashes, and insomnia, which are very similar symptoms to that experienced by a woman. The most troublesome of all symptoms however for men is the decreased sex drive. The decrease in testosterone production and hormonal levels is the reason for this and this lowered sex drive along with a lowering ability to maintain an erection can lead to severe depression in men.
When a man reaches this stage of inability to maintain an erection, the level of depression can be very severe and can lead to thoughts of suicide. This is why it is called male midlife crisis and counseling and medical attention should be sought immediately. At this stage, men are usually found to be highly irritable and it is important for the family to understand this.
Many men experience weight gain as they get older and are not as active as they once were, but this can also be a sign of male menopausal symptoms, and should not be ignored.
As much as it may be ignored, male menopausal symptoms are very real and attention should be paid when someone is suspected of going through this. Andropause is a very real part of male aging even though doctors might put more emphasis on female menopause symptoms.

Monday, February 7, 2011

Reasons Behind Male Menopause

6S78X5QXB2HW  Male menopause or Andropause is a result of plunging testosterone levels in men. Testosterone is the hormone that regulates a lot of vital body functions in men. It is the hormone that is responsible for giving you your definitive male characteristics such as deep voice, facial and torso hair, aggressive behavior, higher muscle mass and strength etc., It is also the hormone that regulates sex drive and sexual function in men.
However, like other hormones such as HGH and DHEA, testosterone production also declines with age. Testosterone levels begin declining at about 1% a year after the age of 30. Though this decline is gradual, the effects can be felt sharply by the time you reach 40.
Some of the effects of this decline includes low sex drive and sexual or erectile dysfunction, irritable behavior or mood swings, lack of concentration etc., Since these symptoms are quite similar to what women experience during menopause, this phase in a man's life is being called the male form of menopause or Andropause.
However, there are conflicting opinions about this phenomenon among experts and doctors and this is largely because not all men experience these symptoms.
A healthy diet that consists of foods that can boost testosterone production and an active lifestyle can help increase your T levels and help you overcome symptoms of male menopause.
Though the major reason behind this fall in your T levels is age, there are certain factors that aggravate this decline. Some of them include lack of physical activity, stress and depression, smoking and alcohol abuse etc.,
To overcome these symptoms it is required that you bring about a few healthy changes in your lifestyle. I have already stated the importance of a good diet above. Foods that can enhance testosterone production include those that are rich in zinc and some great examples include oysters, animal protein such as lean meat, dairy and poultry products etc.,
Moreover, it is also important to include essential fats into your diet since they help in the production of this male hormone. Some foods that are rich in essential fatty acids include oily fish, nuts etc.,
Moreover, regular exercises, adequate sleep, reduced levels of stress are some major testosterone boosters.
Over and above, you can have some nutritional supplements that are formulated with age proven herbs and can help increase you T levels without the side effects of replacement therapy.
Find out more about Male Menopause and how to overcome it naturally with lifestyle changes and food supplements.

How to Cope With Male Menopause

As much as you would like to believe that its only women that suffer from menopause I'm afraid to have to bust your bubble men do to. There is such a condition called the Male Menopause. This condition is also described by some as being a mid-life crisis. The symptoms are similar to what women experience. Just like women when men go through mid-life crisis they also can suffer with symptoms of depression and lose interest in sex.
Men usual experience Male Menopause when they reach their late 50's to early 60's. Some of the symptoms of Male Menopause are;
• Depression
• Constantly sad
• Anxious
• Loss of interest in sex
However, because of the decline in testosterone levels in men who experience male menopause, depression will occur. You have to consider that male menopause will also cause anxiety and loss of interest in sex. To alleviate the symptoms the person experiencing these symptoms should consider male menopause treatment such as hormone replacement therapy for men. This treatment is usually for men who have low testosterone level.
This treatment will significantly decrease the effects of male menopause but is not a cure. However, by going through the testosterone replacement therapy, it will help you get rid of depression. It will also help you with your erectile dysfunction condition and will significantly improve your sex life.
With testosterone replacement therapy, you will have your sex life back again and feel more like your former self. If course you would not just jump in and get yourself treated with testosterone replacement therapy you would first consult your doctor who would conduct a series of tests to determine if your testosterone level has declined and thereafter then decide whether indeed this is the right course of action for you.
Once you have been diagnosed with having Male Menopause the doctor would then recommend a professional who is able to administer and supervise the treatment as it is necessary for you to have the right dosage of testosterone in order to have maximum effect while getting rid of the side effects.
There are four different methods of administering the testosterone replacement therapy;
• Injection
• Oral capsules
• Patches
• Implant
The Professional designated to administer the testosterone replacement therapy will let you choose which method is right for you and which method you are most comfortable with.
Always remember that testosterone replacement therapy should only be done with the supervision of a qualified professional in the field of the testosterone replacement therapy. This is important in order to give you the best effect possible while minimizing or eliminating unwanted side effects.

Saturday, February 5, 2011

Male Menopause - Is Andropause Fact Or Fiction

The issue of male menopause is a hotly debated one but the evidence is strong that men also suffer the same menopausal-like symptoms that women do. The only difference is, while menopause signals the end of the reproductive stage of a woman's life, in men, this is not the case.
So should men and menopause be used in the same sentence? The fact remains, men can produce sperm well into their seventies and eighties and this is where the debate rages. If a man can still father children at this time of life then how can they possibly go through menopause?
The problem in identifying male menopause is there is no defined period that a man can experience it. In women, it's usually in their forties when the big "M" can come knocking at their change of life door. Apart from some isolated instances of women going through it at a much younger age, the general awareness stage starts in their forties.
Andropause
This is a term which is often used in place of male menopause. So what is it? Well, it's associated with the decline in a man's testosterone levels. This is usually as a result of aging and men have reported many symptoms associated with menopause such as:
- sexual issues
- fatigue
- depression
- mood swings
The difference between the testes and the ovaries is the former can still produce sperm at a later age. The similarity is, men can also experience testosterone decline at about the same time women begin the reproduction shut down.
Testing For Male Menopause
So how do you know if male menopause may be affecting you? The most logical step is to see your doctor who will first conduct a physical exam and then discuss the symptoms you may be experiencing.
It doesn't end here though because there are other factors which may come into play. The symptoms may be associated with other conditions which could be contributing. Your doctor will need to test your testosterone levels and will more than likely call for blood tests.
Treatment may include testosterone replacement therapy however, as is the case with hormone replacement therapy for women, there are side effects possible so discuss these with your doctor. One of the more likely ways to combat symptoms of male menopause is making lifestyle changes.
This could include an exercise regime or simply altering one's dietary habits. Depression can be a major issue during andropause in fact, many believe it doesn't get the attention it should. Treatment for depression should be strongly considered and your doctor will guide you in this area.

Know Menopause and Symptoms

To know menopause and symptoms, one should understand healthy and normal menopause symptoms and unhealthy health conditions.
To know menopause and symptoms means realizing that as a woman ages, the reproductive system will slow and eventually shut down. The woman's regular menstrual cycle will become lighter and less frequent and will eventually cease functioning. This menopause symptom is normal and expected when the woman is in her late 40's or early 50's.
The problem is -- a woman should know menopause and symptoms that mean there are underlying health problems, the most common being a condition called 'hormone imbalance'. Certain symptoms of menopause are signs that health problems exist that should be corrected. If not, the woman is at higher risk for more serious health problems.
Here are examples of such symptoms:
1 - A craving for sweets and/or carbohydrates, accompanied by fluctuating blood sugar levels
2 - Hair growth on the face
3 - Loss of hair or thinning hair
4 - Sluggishness, lack of energy
5 - Urinary tract infections or yeast infections
6 - Fibroids
7 - Weight gain, especially in the hips, waist and stomach, with no change in dietary habits
To know menopause and symptoms, one should know that many women in the western industrialized countries experience one or more of these symptoms of menopause much earlier than the average age of menopause which is about 51 in the USA. A crucial question that should be answered is -- what is a leading cause of menopause symptoms in women?
The answer is related to hormone imbalance. Hormone imbalance can be caused by stress, obesity, poor nutrition, excess estrogen and the lack of ovulation and progesterone. Is it possible to know menopause and symptoms and the role of hormone imbalance in causing premature menopause symptoms? The answer is -- YES!
There is an online test for a woman's hormone health related to menopause and symptoms that can indicate hormones are out of balance. The most frequent condition is too much estrogen and too little progesterone, the two basic hormones required for a healthy woman. This health test has been developed by a leading womens health clinic, it is used in their practice every day, it's available to women online and is free.
If you're a woman in your 30's, 40's or older and you sense your health is not what it should be, take the womens health test online and see what the clinic recommends for your health situation. Understanding what is healthy and normal and what is not is vital when the issue is your energy, your health and well-being.

Thursday, February 3, 2011

A Guide to Andropause Symptoms

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.

How to Get Over Male Menopause Naturally

It is not just women who undergo hormonal change in their bodies with age. Men too experience a drop in their testosterone levels as they advance towards middle age. Since testosterone is the hormone that controls a series of vital body functions is men, a drop in its production leads to a lot of changes in their body as well as behavior.
Andropause or male menopause is a result of a drop in your testosterone levels. Men, generally, begin losing testosterone at about 1-1.5% a year after the age of 30. This sums up to a loss of 10-15% by the age of 40 and this is when you begin feeling the effects.
One of the most disturbing effects of Andropause is low libido and erectile dysfunction. It can out any man under a huge amount of stress.
Another disturbing effect is mood swings and irritable behavior. Testosterone is a hormone that can affect your mood levels significantly and lack of testosterone in your body can lead to depression as well.
Not just this, low testosterone can also make your bones weaker. Men with low testosterone levels often find it difficult even to bend or stoop.
One of the ways to get over male menopause is with the help hormone replacement therapy but HRT has so many negative effects that it is best to stay off it. Thankfully, testosterone is a hormone whose production can be increased naturally in your body.
Here are some simple steps to beat male menopause:
1. Begin Exercising
Have you ever noticed men who workout regularly are not just in better shape but also look younger, healthy and happy.
This is because exercise is not just great for boosting testosterone levels and blood circulation in your body but is also great to beat stress.
Short and intense workouts work the best when it comes to boosting testosterone production in your body.
2. Reducing Stress
Chronic stress can affect your health in multiple ways. Not only does it affect the state of your mental health and well being but is also bad for your testosterone levels. It tends to increase Cortisol level in your body that inhibits testosterone production.
Lowering stress can give boost to your testosterone and energy levels.
One of the best ways to beat stress is with the help of yoga and deep breathing exercises.
3. Natural Testosterone Supplement
Natural testosterone supplements have become extremely popular among men. These supplements are a perfect combination of herbal extracts and other natural ingredients that stimulate the production of testosterone in your body.
Unlike HRT, these supplements do not have any side effects.
They can ensure a complete body makeover for men. Not only do they ensure a robust libido and harder erections but also help lift your mood levels. They can also strengthen your bones and increase your energy levels tremendously.
Not just this, such supplements can also help boost your HGH levels so that you can overcome age effects.

Wednesday, February 2, 2011

The Male Menopause Myth and treatment

It's commonly known that women going through menopause experience hot flashes, night sweats, moods swings, irritability, insomnia and weight gain, but these same symptoms are known to occur in men as well. They generally occur in men in their 40s to 50s, thought to be due to slowly decreasing testosterone levels, along with other symptoms such as loss of sexual desire or functioning, depression, memory loss, or chronic fatigue. But what if I told you that I see young men in their 20s coming in to see me with the same exact problems? What I've discovered is that it's really not mainly a hormonal issue, but a problem with their breathing. Let me explain.
What I've noticed in all these young men is that they all have in common a relatively narrow upper airway. When examined with a thin flexible camera, the space behind their tongues is very narrow, about 2-3 mm wide. This is mainly due to smaller jaw structures and dental crowding. Whenever someone with this anatomy starts to fall asleep, his tongue muscle starts to relax, and in deeper levels of sleep, it relaxes almost completely, leading to partial obstruction, and awakening. Once awakened, the man turns over. In most cases, they usually don't like to sleep on their backs for this reason. Most people compensate very well by sleeping only on their sides or stomachs.
However, if there's anything that narrows the upper airway, either due to inflammation (allergies or a cold), or structurally (fat), the tongue collapses much easier and the person gets less efficient sleep due to multiple arousals. Inefficient sleep leads to an imbalance of the involuntary nervous system, leading to what are called "vasomotor" conditions, such as sweating, heart palpitations, and temperature fluctuations. So is a young man with a predisposed anatomy is slowly gaining weight, he may experience all the above "male menopause" symptoms.
If these obstructions last for more than 10 seconds, they are called apneas. If you have more than 10 to 15 apneas every hour, then you may be diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea. Untreated obstructive sleep apnea can lead to depression, anxiety, weight gain, erectile dysfunction, memory problems, hypertension, glucose intolerance, going to the bathroom often, heart disease, heart attack and stroke. The physiologic stress state that's created also can lower one's thyroid and testosterone levels, making it seem like he may have either hypothyroidism or low testosterone.
So in a sense, the male menopause phenomenon does happen, but not for the reasons that you may think. The word menopause literally means cessation of menses. Since men don't have periods, this is not an appropriate word. Instead, it should be renamed something alluding to the progression of a sleep-breathing disorder.

Male Menopause Symptoms Can Be Very Real

Male menopause (or Andropause,) is a condition of gradual changes in hormone status. Male menopause afflicts some men between the ages of 40 and 60 of age. The hormone imbalance has the biggest impact on testosterone and cortisol (the stress hormone).
So as men age, they become experience a range of andropause symptoms that are the same symptoms that women experience in menopause. But menopause in women represents a well-defined period in which hormone production stops completely. Testosterone decline in male menopause is a slower process. Many psychological signs can manifest as a result of experiencing the various physiological male menopause symptoms.
Andropause Symptoms These male menopause symptoms include:
  • Erectile Dysfunction
  • Muscle Loss
  • Decrease in libido or Sex Drive
  • Mood changes, Irritability, Fatigue Sleep Apnea, Depression
  • Weight Gain * Urinary Problems
  • Hot Flashes in Men
  • Gynecomastia (male breasts)
  • Hair Loss
The imbalance of even one hormone causes imbalance in other hormones. Men may not experience all of the above symptoms of andropause, but instead commonly experience a combination of symptoms. While these symptoms are signs of andropause, they may also be symptoms of other conditions like adrenal fatigue and poor thyroid health.
Male menopause symptoms relief Contrary to popular opinions, none of the listed andropause symptoms manifest signs of old age. These male menopause symptoms may reduce through bioidentical hormone replacement therapy which is also called as androgen replacement therapy. This method is a lifelong treatment, since testosterone deficiency is generally a permanent condition. But, as with hormone replacement therapy in women, testosterone replacement therapy does have some potential risks and side effects. For example, some resources found that replacing testosterone may cause prostate cancer and increase the risk of heart diseases.
Natural male menopause solutions Alternative to hormone replacement therapy are natural ways. It is possible to manage testosterone levels naturally. The following three options constitute a good, safe way to start.
Exercise
Researches reported that regular exercise at least twice per week can increase muscle strength by more than 30 percent, while also boosting bone density, speeding up metabolism and pushing up production of testosterone and other sex hormones.
Nutrition
To reduce male menopause symptoms diet should contains enough good carbohydrates, protein and good fat. Studies found that protein helps maintain lean muscle mass. Lack of carbohydrates can lead to decreased serotonin levels and consequently, irritability. It also takes a certain amount of fat to keep testosterone production at healthy levels. Some studies show that alcohol decreases testosterone levels.
Supplements Vitamins B group can help with stress and boost energy.
Vitamins stabilizes production of stress hormones.
Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA)
The number one over the counter dietary supplement for male menopause treatment is dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA). This supplement builds block for sex hormones that the body naturally produces, but tends to decline rapidly with age. Some studies suggested that it's ingredients derived from yams can improve skin, sex drive, mood and strength in aging men.
Fish oil
Fish oil or omega-3 supplements is also popular supplement used for male menopausal symptoms. It have been shown to improve cognitive function, boost energy and prevent heart attacks. L-arginine L-arginine is an amino acid that helps dilate constricted blood vessels associated with erectile dysfunction.
Herbs
Herbs such as ashwagandha and ginseng are very benefit for hearth of male sexual energy.
A lot of men feel uncomfortable speaking about their menopause symptoms. So they often do not treat them. Early diagnosis, hormone replacement therapy and supplements can significantly improve male menopause symptoms.

Tuesday, February 1, 2011

Male Menopause and What You Can Do To Stay Vital

Andropause occurs as a result of plummeting levels of testosterone, the dominant male hormone. This hormonal function starts to decline gradually as men age. Just like menopause, when decreasing levels of estrogen (the most dominant female hormone) play havoc on the female body - it can apply to men as well. Because of this condition, symptoms such as the loss of libido, impotence, and depression may present themselves.
Let's shy away from Andropause for a second and focus on testosterone. What comes to your mind when you think of the word: testosterone? Body builders hugging their 10 lb jars of whey protein before a pose down? Mark McGwire and the bottle of andro found stored in his locker? Pumped-up, muscle-packed men strutting the boardwalk in Venice Beach?
Testosterone is much more than defining the idea of an alpha male. This hormone regulates numerous processes in the male body besides sex-related functions and muscle building. Blood sugar controlled to normal levels, the regulation of cholesterol, oxygen uptake, enhances the immune system, and helps to create healthy, strong bones.
All of these are all attributed to the work of this one hormone. Metabolic processes are also speeded up, like cell production and cell growth. In addition, Testosterone appears to help in mental concentration, improves mood and is reported to prevent depression and even Alzheimer's disease. Testosterone isn't simply an ingredient found in steroids that pack muscle mass. It is an integral part of the human body that helps shape, build, and maintain bodily processes.
Andropause is responsible for plummeting testosterone levels. Before learning more about testosterone, let's examine how Andropausal men's bodies work and result in this decline. Testosterone is developed in the brain. The pituitary glands in the brain produce a hormone called luteinizing hormone responsible for giving one special order to the testicles: produce testosterone! Remember, the brain does not produce ¨T.¨ It regulates the glands which produce the hormones that send receptor messages directly to the testes.
The combination of failing testes and the inability of the pituitary gland to send messages to the testes is the reason for testosterone decline. If the pituitary gland is not secreting enough of the luteinizing hormone, the testes will not function. On average, 5 grams of testosterone are made daily. The secretion of this hormone is prominent during certain times of the day, most notably in the morning and sundown. Semen is also affected - less is produced as we age.
¨T¨ hormones work by connecting themselves to proteins in the blood. These proteins follow through the bloodstream and reach the vital areas of the body where the hormone works. A small amount of testosterone does not attach themselves to any protein - these are called free testosterone.
This free hormone is the most impactful hormone in your system. When Andropause comes to fruition, more testosterone attach themselves to proteins, leaving less of the free testosterone available. As you can see, proteins can have a reverse effect on us as well! It is a paradox - a hormone working too hard does more damage than good!
As men grow older, androgen levels start to decline. Remember guys, estrogen is to women as androgen is to men. Androgens are produced in the adrenal gland (located above the kidneys) and in the testicles. These hormones are responsible for producing sperm, promoting sex drive, aiding with erectile function, and helping determine the gender of an unborn child. If you are a bodybuilding enthusiast, please note that lack of androgen will affect your muscle build, causing decreased muscle mass and loss of strength.
No amount of whey protein, creatine, or glutamine can remedy this problem. Instead of building six-pack abs, you will have increased body fat in the areas you need it least. Squats (total body building exercise) and deadlifts (compound exercise that works the back) are nearly impossible to perform, as Andropause can cause osteoporosis (loss of bone tissue) and back pain.
This should not deter you from having a daily exercise regimen, however. Exercise has been scientifically proven to lessen the effects of testosterone loss and your routine should be altered to accommodate this as you age.
There are also alternatives such as testosterone cream that can help you regain your sex drive and stamina. With the right nutrition, including diet and exercise, Andropause can be a comfortable passage.

Herbs to Control Male Menopause

Although it is not regularly discussed, male menopause is a real medical condition experienced by men from their 40s to 60s. Men, just like women, suffer the effects of lowering levels of hormone production in the human body. These symptoms include depression, thinning hair, diminishing sexual ability, irritability, and feelings of doubt. While these symptoms may seem overwhelming, there are several treatments that can help alleviate these symptoms.
Plunging levels of testosterone is the main cause of these symptoms. DHEA is a hormone that is naturally produced by the adrenal glands. It is converted into testosterone by the pituitary glands. DHEA supplements have been safely used by athletes for years to burn fat, and it is a safe way to boost sagging levels of testosterone for men suffering from male menopause. DHEA is widely available in most health food stores.
Amidren is a supplement designed specifically to treat the symptoms associated with male menopause. Amidren is a five stage male hormone modulation formula. The main purpose of Amidren is to raise hormone levels while still retaining hormonal balance. There are no side effects associated with Amidren, but it is recommended that you consult your doctor before starting Amidren. This product is not available in stores, but it can be purchased online from several outlets.
Black cohosh supplements can be used to treat depression, anxiety, and night sweats that are the result of male menopause. Black cohosh reduces the lutenizing hormones that result in night sweats. Some people who take black cohosh experience headaches and an upset stomach. It is not recommended to take black cohosh for longer than six months because black cohosh may alter liver enzymes and impact regular liver function.
Ginseng is one of the best herbal treatments for male health. It is often used to help people cope with stress. However, it has also been proven to help enhance male sexual performance. In fact, ginseng has long been used in Eastern medicine in order to treat diminishing sexual ability. Ginseng can be easily found in most grocery stores and health food stores. You can also purchase fresh ginseng root and ginseng root tea in many markets. Ginseng is safe for regular use and there are no side effects associated with ginseng usage.
If you are interested in an herbal treatment for male menopause, consider seeking the advice of your doctor or homeopath. They can best direct you in order to find the best male menopause treatment for you.

Monday, January 31, 2011

Male Menopause and Mid-Life Crisis

For years, many have dismissed the changes that middle-aged men experience both mentally and physically and simply attributed them to mid-life crises. However, we now know these changes are more than just circumstance or because of other extraneous factors, but instead, are largely due to an inevitable decline in male hormones, resulting in andropause, the male equivalent of menopause.
Unfortunately, andropause is often misdiagnosed, or never treated or addressed at all due to the vagueness and wide variety of its symptoms. During the middle-age or mid-life years, most men are settled, have established themselves and have reached a point of stability that instead of being comforting, may cause some to question choices they've made, reevaluating their lives and accomplishments.
This mid-way point through one's life also causes many to think about an end to their youth, growing older, retirement, and their own mortality. Also, during this period of time, parents are aging, or needing our care at the same time our children are growing up and leaving the nest. All of these events and situations that are seemingly causing classic signs of mid-life crisis may actually be directly related to a decrease in hormones such as androgen and testosterone.
Unlike their female counterparts, men are able to reproduce well past andropause, although sperm quality and production may still be seriously affected. Testosterone, necessary for the production of healthy sperm, usually begins to naturally diminish after a man reaches the age of 40.
Symptoms of andropause may surface as early as the mid 30s, or in some men, as late as their 60s, but are most common during the 40s and 50s, and include the following:
- Difficulties with memory, alertness or concentration.
- Decreased muscle tone, weight gain, and an increase in body fat.
- Changes in urinary function or habits.
- Lack of energy or strength, decreased desire for physical activity.
- Mild to moderate depression and or irritability.
- A diminished sex drive coupled with a decrease in sexual function or ability.
- Changes in hair growth or loss, as well as noticeable changes in skin quality.
- Hot flashes, similar to those experienced by female's during menopause.
Treatment for andropause may involve the use of hormone replacement therapy, known as HRT, for men who are experiencing more severe symptoms of the condition. HRT may be useful for improving mood, relieving depression, increasing energy, and reducing anger or irritability. Many men who have received hormone replacement therapy including testosterone also report an increase in their libido as well as a decrease in insomnia or sleep problems.
For most men, a holistic or natural approach such as lifestyle changes, including diet and exercise, are usually all that is necessary to control symptoms of andropause. Experts recommend a diet rich with fiber, vitamins and minerals, particularly C, D, E, and zinc, which can be found naturally in foods such as leafy green vegetables, or through supplements.
These small changes not only help to reduce signs of andropause, but also offer many physical benefits for the body in general. A regular exercise program, at least three times per week, helps to reduce stress, increase heart rate and blood circulation, and also boosts the body's natural immune system.

The Truth About Male Menopause

The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism that discovered our testosterone levels have been steadily declining at a rate of about 1% a year since the 1980’s.
Put simply, that that means the average 65 year old man living in 2002 has testosterone levels about 15% lower than the same 65 year old man living in 1987. And that news spells trouble for real men everywhere!
Because when you couple their findings with the decline in testosterone levels that occurs naturally with male aging – we’re forced to face a very serious male health condition known as Andropause which literally means “the end of being a man”!
A problem that’s compounded by the fact that as your testosterone levels drop, your estrogen levels rise. So if you’re not doing something now to combat this epidemic by the time your 60 there’s a very good chance you’ll have less testosterone than your wife and more estrogen than your granddaughter.
And along with this devastating form of  Male Menopause come a slew of serious male health concerns that can rob you of everything that makes you a Real Man…
* A Positive Attitude
* Erectile Function
* Healthy Libido and Ejaculatory Power
* Robust Energy Levels and Manly Strength
* Lean Muscle Mass and the Ability to Burn Body Fat
* A Smooth Functioning Prostate and Strong Healthy Bones
Some men even develop female characteristics like breasts, and even worse, recent clinical studies suggest that men with lower testosterone levels are at an increased risk for heart disease and high blood pressure. So there’s an awful lot at stake here!
That’s why in recent year’s testosterone therapy has become one of the most popular alternative treatments for an entire shopping list of men’s health concerns.
But if you’re like me and the idea of a weekly injection of testosterone sends shivers down your spine - fear not there is a natural alternative. And, compared to the cost associated with testosterone injections, they’re practically giving the stuff away!
I’m talking about a natural plant compound called Diindolymethane or DIM for short.
DIM is an all natural plant compound found in all cruciferous vegetables – like broccoli, cauliflower and cabbage that helps balance the male/female sex hormones (testosterone and estrogen) in your body.
Here’s how it works – first DIM stimulates your body to more efficiently metabolize estrogen into estrogen metabolites or “good estrogen”.
This results in less free estrogen (bad estrogen) in your blood stream which allows your body to produce robust amounts of testosterone for maximum manliness!
Secondly, DIM helps your body’s metabolism produce the most beneficial mix of your vital sex hormones.
Probably the best method I know of to get or maintain a lean muscular physique, have amazing sex, super charge your immune system, increase your energy levels and improve your mood – at any age!
The only problem is to get the kinds of benefits from DIM that I mentioned above you’d have to consume massive amounts of fresh vegetables every day.
So I highly recommend finding a high end potency supplement that contains DIM – they can be found in most any high end health food store. The one I recommend is called Mandro RX.
Mandro RX not only contains therapeutic amount of DIM but it also has a slew of proven estrogen fighters that’s have been clinically show to reduce the production of estrogen in men and help naturally stimulate their production of testosterone.
Taken regularly this one simple supplement can reverse the feminizing trend plaguing American men today – and get you back to living life like a Real Man again.
But in the mean time, don’t forget to stock up on the broccoli and cauliflower. And make sure you don’t over cook them – and don’t boil them – steaming them is the surest method to keep all their vital nutrients intact.

Friday, January 28, 2011

Male Menopause Symptoms Real or Myth

If you are a male aged between 40 and 45, and suffering from depression, a loss of self-confidence, lack of purpose, irritability, fear or general moodiness, you may just be experiencing the so-called male menopause. It is sometimes known as a mid-life crisis and it can have serious and far-reaching effects; it can also occur at just about any age between 35 and 70. Strictly speaking, men can't have a menopause, as it's defined as the point at which periods stop happening, but the name has stuck.
The male menopause has been considered a myth for some time, but recent research suggests that it is just as real as the female version. There is no doubt that most men in their mid-40s experience some or all of the feelings associated with it. These feelings are often intensified by those dramatic events that tend to occur in middle life, such as the break-up of a marriage, financial concerns, career dissatisfaction or children growing up and leaving home.
Male menopause symptoms may be caused by a deficiency of the androgen hormone (testosterone) that men tend to suffer in mid-life; leading some to call the condition the andropause. It's estimated that by the age of 70, androgen levels in men are only about 10% of what they were during youth. This deficiency leads to one of the symptoms that most concern men during their middle age - a loss of interest in sex, although just getting older can have that effect as well.
Whether all the symptoms of male menopause are caused by this deficiency is still open to debate, although a decrease in testosterone levels also increases the chances of heart disease in a man, as well as increasing the chance of injuries due to decreased bone density. A blood test can determine whether testosterone levels are too low and need to be treated with testosterone replacement.
It's estimated that around half of men in their 50s and almost two thirds of men aged over 60 have at least some of the male menopause symptoms that are more commonly associated with women - night sweats, aching muscles and loss of sex drive. Other male menopause symptoms include irritability, general fatigue, and loss of purpose and a vague feeling of dissatisfaction. Some men become depressed and even suicidal. Some of these male symptoms are fairly similar to those of puberty, causing some to give the condition the nickname of "middlescence".
One problem with the male menopause is that it is something that most men would rather not discuss - especially when it comes to a loss of interest in sex. In fact many men are not even consciously aware of it, despite having some or all of the signs. Some symptoms of male menopause can be treated to some degree, although there is really no sure remedy for the vague feelings of restlessness and dissatisfaction that characterize this type of problems. Perhaps the remedy is simply to accept what is happening to you as a normal sign of aging.

Male Menopause Facts

Male menopause is also called andropause. It is marked by decreasing levels of hormones. The male hormone is Testosterone and acts to make and release sperm. It also is responsible for sparking the sex drive and keeping muscles strong.
Not every man will experience andropause. There is no known reason why this occurs. There is also no known reason why men who do become andropausal, do so. Testosterone levels will likely peak at around the ages of 18-25 in many men. Somewhere in his mid 20's a man's testosterone may begin to drop very slowly. For most men, the levels stay at a healthy level allowing men to potentially become fathers well into their 80's. By the age of 40, some men will see a major drop in hormone levels. Half of all men by the time they turn 50 will experience seriously reduced testosterone that can trigger a number of health issues.
The cause of male menopause is dissimilar to female menopause. For women, estrogen levels drop off and then completely stop. This causes the many symptoms that you may experience during menopause. A man's fertility does not disappear totally. Sperm production continues which allows a man to be able to father children well into their 80's as has already been mentioned.
Andropause creates symptoms for men that are unpleasant and that are very much like those for women with the exception that they are not as severe. The symptoms include the typical hot flashes, night sweats, exhaustion, and body aches. They also will have mood swings, irritability, depression, and listlessness. Your libido may decrease and you may begin to have trouble with having a strong erection and keeping it. Men like women might lose confidence in their ability to enjoy sex. A visit to the doctor can be very beneficial for you.
You, like many men, will not go for treatments because they don't like talking about what's happening to them. Doctors' have not taken male menopausal symptoms very seriously. Symptoms can be difficult to diagnose in men but research studies are changing that.
Treatments for andropause include TRT- testosterone replacement treatments. This helps to raise testosterone levels to a healthy level. Once testosterone levels are at a good level you and many men will likely see less symptoms. Erectile dysfunction may not always benefit from TRT but there are other options.
Men, it will be beneficial for you to understand andropause and your over-all response to symptoms. As with women, your symptoms may fluctuate in intensity. Ladies, if a man you know suspects that he is andropausal, support him and encourage him to talk to his doctor.
Men also will have the option to use natural products including herbal supplements. Herbs that are known to have beneficial effects on male menopause symptoms are used.
A specific amount of each ingredient is blended to become a specific formula. High quality supplements have each of the ingredients tested at the molecular to determine and prove their benefits and how they interact is observed in order to be sure they are compatible. They will also have been made to meet pharmaceutical standards. The herbal ingredients are standardized herbal extracts. All of this helps to guarantee their safety, their efficacy, and potency.
Conclusion
Men do in fact experience their own menopause called andropause. Like the symptoms for women, they can include hot flashes, irritability, and decreased sexual functioning.
Few seek treatment out of embarrassment and because until recently, doctors did not believe male menopause was real. Hormone replacement therapy is possible, though for men it would be testosterone that is being replaced. These treatments come with serious side effects and as a result they seek out natural products such as herbal supplements. They are safer with minimal side effects if any at all.
You should discuss taking supplements with your doctor before purchase because some herbs could influence the performance of prescriptions you may be taking for other issues. Male menopause (andropause) is very real and there is treatment.

Thursday, January 27, 2011

Male Menopause Depression

There are many different things that we may have to go through as we get older. When we were younger, our bodies functioned fairly well for the most part and our chemical levels were consistent and healthy. As you get older, however, a drop-off in the hormonal levels of the body may cause a lot of different problems. In females, this tends to come on fairly quickly and is usually described as menopause. Male menopause is also our reality that many men need to face and is a result of a lack of testosterone in the body. Not only can it cause sexual problems, it can also cause male menopause depression.
Of course, there are a lot of different symptoms that accompany male menopause. Some of the most common symptoms include a lack of sexual appetite, decreased testicular size, mental illness and, of course, male menopause depression. There are several different ways in which this type of depression may be treated but first, you need to make sure of what is truly at the root of your menopausal depression. As a matter of fact, it may not be a lack of testosterone at all.
There are plenty of diseases which can mimic these types of symptoms in the body including diabetes and kidney failure. Unless you truly know what is at the root of your particular problem it will be almost impossible to treat it effectively. As a matter of fact, if you don't treat the underlying condition you may only make the condition itself worse. Your doctor will be able to determine why you are experiencing these particular problems. It may be that you are having a problem with testosterone production which is causing this male menopause depression but it may not be menopause based.
Of course, if you are experiencing a lack of testosterone and it is causing you to be depressed there are some ways to fix the condition. One of the first things that you should try is raising the levels of testosterone in your body again. Doctors do this through administering testosterone therapy but this may have some adverse side effects of its own. A good plan of diet, exercise and supplementation can help to build the levels of testosterone back up in your body naturally. Not only will this help you with your male menopause depression, it will help you to be able to feel better naturally.

Is Male Menopause real

We all know that women experience menopause, a time when their menses stop, at some point as they pass age 40. Their female hormone, estrogen, decreases, menstruation ceases, and women start to experience a variety of symptoms, some of them uncomfortable.
Did you know, however, that men actually experience a similar hormone-decreasing event in their lives, about the same ages that women experience theirs? That's right, they do. It isn't really a male menopause though because, obviously, men don't stop having menses - what really happens is their male hormone, testosterone, starts to decline. In fact, 2-4 million American men have low testosterone levels and only about 5% of them are being treated for it!
Some health researchers have referred to this decline in testosterone in men as low T (testosterone)". However, it does share some of the same symptoms with female menopause, i.e., fatigue, depression, weight gain, changes in cognition, sleeplessness and irritability. Sound like fun? No, not much! What can you do about it? Well, first of all, let's make sure you're not contributing to the problem by adding hidden estrogen to your life!
Some Reasons for Hormonal "Change" in Men
In our modern world of convenience foods there lies a culprit that could be creating hormonal havoc for all of men, women, and children, alike. That is, plastic and the xenoestrogens it contains. Plastic water bottles, microwave food containers, milk and juice cartons, just about any kind of food or drink you can imagine is likely available in a plastic container.
Plastic microwave containers are the worst as when they are heated they release these environmental estrogens right into your food! You eat the food and your body absorbs all these added female hormones in your fat cells. In men, these abnormal stores of estrogens in fat cells start unbalancing a man's testosterone levels and can start to give him feminine traits such as enlarged breasts, low sperm count, increased belly fat, and inability to maintain an erection. Our overuse of plastic today may explain the seeming epidemic of men with low testosterone levels.
Other reasons for low T in men are:
Age - men start to experience a natural decline in testosterone levels around the mid 40's through the mid 60's.
Certain illnesses - diabetes, other endocrine disorders like low thyroid.
What Are The Symptoms of Low Testosterone?
Unlike a women's menopause, men really don't stop producing testosterone and sperm as women stop producing estrogen and eggs. More accurately, male testosterone slowly declines over a period of years. Unlike women whose eggs die off in menopause, men still retain sperm and can father a child well into their 90's or older!
I have male patients as young as age 30 come in with symptoms of low testosterone levels, but the majority of my patients with these complaints are men from about age 45 onward. These symptoms include:
• Fatigue
• Erectile dysfunction
• Sleep disturbance (not enough, too much)
• Sweating
• Depression
• Weight gain, especially belly fat and increased breast fat
• Decreased stamina
Treating Low Testosterone in Men
After doing a simple blood test to determine the level of testosterone a man has, if it is found to be too low, there are a few treatment options available. They include:
Testosterone injections - there is concern amongst some health researchers that giving older men testosterone replacement may increase their risk of prostate cancer. However, I think the benefits far outweigh the risk and the National Institute for Cancer backs me up here. They stated that there is no real evidence that higher testosterone levels actually cause prostate cancer.
Natural testosterone boosters - optimal nutrition, diet rich in monounsaturated fats like those found in nuts, olive oil, avocados, good fiber intake (20-25 grams a day), zinc, Vitamin B12, DHEA, high protein, low glycemic index foods all increase testosterone. Limit alcohol; exercise at least 4 times a week.
Testosterone boosting supplements - Supplements like Chrysin reduces estrogen in your body. Maca, a root used by Peruvian Indians for aiding fertility, increases testosterone levels and sperm count. Tribulus terrestris, saw palmetto, gingko, Korean ginseng, Mucuna pruriens and Muira puama are all natural herbal testosterone boosters.
Though many of my older male patients complain of symptoms of decreasing testosterone, "low T" is a very treatable, common condition amongst men. In fact, there are even television "ads" about it! Whether you opt for testosterone injections or try to stay natural in your approach by using diet, exercise, and herbal supplements, there is no reason in today's world for a man to suffer with symptoms of low testosterone.
If you suffer from some of the symptoms noted above, contact your doctor and ask for a testosterone level test. If low, try the natural testosterone boosting tips listed here before you start to consider testosterone injections. I think you'll like how you'll feel and look!

Tuesday, January 25, 2011

Easy Way to Recognize Male Menopause Symptoms

The existence of andropause is recognized by some of the best researchers in medical science, including the international medical community.
In fact, a recent World Health Organization (WHO) report, states that male androgens progressively decline with age. The study tested androgen levels at age 25 and by age 70, androgen levels were only 10 percent of what they were during youth.
The impact of decreasing androgens is known as andropause, also called male menopause or PADAM; Partial Androgen Deficiency in the Aging Male. It is a normal part of aging, although, for some men it is accompanied by a gradual and undesired decline in their sexuality, mood and overall energy. Sometimes it can even expose men to more serious health risks.
As with women, andropause in males begins at a time when life often offers some of its greatest rewards.
What is Andropause?
By the time men are between the ages of 40 and 55, they can experience a phenomenon similar to the female menopause, called andropause. Unlike women, men do not have a clear-cut signpost such as the cessation of menstruation to mark this transition. Both, however, are distinguished by a drop in hormone levels. Estrogen in the female, testosterone in the male. The bodily changes occur very gradually in men and may be accompanied by changes in attitudes and moods, fatigue, a loss of energy, sex drive and physical agility.
What's more, studies show that this decline in testosterone can actually put one at risk for other health problems like heart disease and weak bones. Since all this happens at a time of life when many men begin to question their values, accomplishments and direction in life, it's often difficult to realize that the changes occurring are related to more than just external conditions.
A gradual hormonal decline unlike menopause, which generally occurs in women during their mid-forties to mid-fifties, men's "transition" may be much more gradual and expand over many decades. Attitude, psychological stress, alcohol, injuries or surgery, medications, obesity and infections can contribute to its onset.
Although with age, a decline in testosterone levels will occur in virtually all men, there is no way of predicting who will experience andropausal symptoms of sufficient severity to seek medical help. Neither is it predictable at what age symptoms will occur in a particular individual. Each man's symptoms may be also different.
Is this a new phenomenon? Yes and no. In fact, andropause was first described in medical literature in the 1940's. So it's not really new. But, our ability to diagnose it properly is. Sensitive tests for bioavailable testosterone weren't available until recently, so andropause has gone through a long period where it was underdiagnosed and undertreated. Now that men are living longer, there is heightened interest in andropause and this will help to advance our approach to this important life stage which was identified so long ago.
Increased diagnostic capability Another reason why andropause has been underdiagnosed over the years is that symptoms can be vague and can vary a lot among individuals. Some men find it difficult to admit that there's even a problem. And often physicians didn't always think of low-testosterone levels as a possible culprit. So these factors often led doctors to conclude that symptoms were related to other medical conditions (i.e. depression) or were simply related to aging and often encouraged their patients to accept that "they were no longer spring chickens".
This situation is changing. New blood testing methods are available and there is an increased interest in mens' aging among medical researchers. So much attention is being focused on andropause that major efforts are underway to quickly share emerging scientific information with the international medical community.
Causes
Starting at about age 30, testosterone levels drop by about 10 percent every decade. At the same time, another factor in the body called Sex Binding Hormone Globulin, or SHBG, is increasing. SHBG traps much of the testosterone that is still circulating and makes it unavailable to exert its effects in the body's tissues. What's left over does the beneficial work and is known as "bioavailable" testosterone.
Andropause is associated with low (bioavailable) testosterone levels. Every man experiences a decline of bioavailable testosterone but some men's levels dip lower than others. And when this happens these men can experience andropausal symptoms.
These symptoms can impact their quality of life and may expose them to other, longer-term risks of low-testosterone. It is estimated that 30 percent of men in their 50s will have testosterone levels low enough to be causing symptoms or putting them at risk.
Bioavailable testosterone declines with age
Importance of Testosterone
Testosterone is a hormone that has a unique effect on a man's total body. Testosterone is produced in the testes and in the adrenal glands. It is to males what estrogen is to females.
Testosterone helps to build protein and is essential for normal sexual behavior and producing erections. It also affects many metabolic activities such as production of blood cells in the bone marrow, bone formation, lipid metabolism, carbohydrate metabolism, liver function and prostate gland growth.
Why is testosterone so important?
Andropause is often underdiagnosed because symptoms can be vague and can vary a lot among individuals. Some men find it difficult to admit that there's even a problem. And often physicians didn't always think of low-testosterone levels as a possible culprit.
So these factors often lead doctors to conclude that symptoms were related to other medical conditions (i.e. depression) or were simply related to aging and often encouraged their patients to accept that "they were no longer spring chickens".
But this situation is changing. New blood testing methods are available and there is increased interest in mens' aging among medical researchers. In fact, so much attention is being focused on andropause that major efforts are underway to quickly share emerging scientific information with physicians worldwide.
Impact of Low Testosterone
When there is less testosterone available to do its work, the testosterone target-organ response decreases, bringing about many changes.
There is great variability in testosterone levels among healthy men so not all will experience the same changes to the same extent. But typical responses to low bioavailable testosterone levels include:
* Low sex drive
* Emotional, psychological and behavioral changes
* Decreased muscle mass
* Loss of muscle strength
* Increased upper and central body fat
* Osteoporosis or weak bones and back pain
* Cardiovascular risk
Why should andropause be taken seriously? Apart from the impact that andropause may have on your quality of life, there are other longer-term and silent effects of andropause that are harder to track: increased cardiovascular risk and osteoporosis.
In a healthy individual, bone tissue is constantly being broken down and rebuilt. In an individual with osteoporosis, more bone tissue is lost than is regenerated. We've all heard of women suffering from weaker bones, or osteoporosis, after menopause. In men, testosterone is thought to play a role in helping to maintain this balance. Between the ages of 40 and 70 years, male bone density falls by up to 15 percent.
Unfortunately, with advancing age and declining testosterone levels, men, like women, seem to demonstrate a similar pattern of risk for osteoporosis. What's more, approximately one in eight men over age 50 actually have osteoporosis.
The incidence of hip fractures rises exponentially in aging men, as it does in women, starting about 5 to 10 years later. In Canada, 20-30 percent of osteoporotic fractures occur in men. The incidence of fractures has been increasing in men, whereas it seems to be stabilizing in women - likely due to their lifestyle changes, calcium supplements and hormone replacement therapies (HRT).
Low bone density puts one at risk of frequent fractures, associated pain, and in many cases, loss of independence. Wrists, hips, spine and ribs are most commonly affected.
Two important consequences of osteoporosis are often seen as a slow but progressive rounding of the shoulders as well as a loss of height and back pain. Particularly devastating seem to be hip fractures, up to one third of patients never seem to regain full mobility.
It is now well accepted that women's risk of atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries) increases after menopause. Estrogen replacement therapy seems to reverse this trend.
New evidence suggests that a similar phenomenon occurs in men as their testosterone levels diminish with age. While research is not as complete as for women, the clinical findings point to an association between low-testosterone levels and an increase in cardiovascular risk factors in men.
*A cause and effect relationship has not yet been established in large clinical trials. Further clinical research is needed into this important area of study.
Testosterone Replacement Therapy
In many instances, testosterone replacement in men with andropause can be highly effective and beneficial. It's not for every man, of course, even those who show symptoms may have other health problems at the root of it all. Still you should discuss with your doctor if you would be a good candidate for testosterone replacement therapy.
What should I expect from testosterone replacement? In various clinical studies, very good responses to testosterone have been reported for men with low-testosterone and they include:
* Improvement in mood and sense of well-being
* Increased mental and physical energy
* Decreased anger, irritability, sadness, tiredness, nervousness
* Improved quality of sleep
* Improved libido and sexual performance
* An increase in lean body mass, a decline in fat mass
* An increase in muscle strength (hand grip, upper and lower extremities)
* Potentially, a decrease in the risk of heart disease
With testosterone therapy, one's attitude improves, reinforcing self-esteem and self-confidence at work, as well as an increased energy at home and in social activities. Most men will feel more vigorous, experience improved energy levels, mood, concentration, cognition, libido, sexual performance and an overall sense of well-being. These effects are usually noted within 3 to 6 weeks.
Other potential benefits include maintenance or improvement in bone density, improved body composition, muscle mass and muscle strength, as well as improvement in visual-spatial skills.
Lifestyle
Of course, any ongoing strategy to reduce the symptoms and risks of andropause should incorporate lifestyle approaches such as optimal diet, regular exercise, stress-management and the reduction of tobacco and alcohol intake.
Understanding Risks
There are several conditions in which you should never use testosterone replacement therapy. These include:
* Breast cancer (in males)
* Prostate cancer
In some other cases testosterone replacement therapy may not be right for you. If one of the conditions below is applicable to you, your doctor will decide whether (in your specific case) testosterone replacement therapy is the right solution.
* Liver disease
* Heart or blood vessel disease
* Edema (swelling of face, hands, feet, or lower legs)
* Enlarged prostate
* Kidney disease
* Diabetes mellitus (sugar diabetes)
To help your doctor determine your best treatment plan, you should also discuss the following:
* If you have ever had any unusual or allergic reaction to androgens or anabolic steroids.
* If you are an adult male who plans to have children; high doses of androgens may cause infertility.
* If you are bedridden.
* If you are now taking any other prescription or nonprescription (OTC) medicine, especially anticoagulants (blood thinners).