What is Andropause?
Men between the ages of 40 and 55 can experience a phenomenon similar to female menopause called andropause. Unlike women, men do not have a clear-cut cessation of symptoms to mark the transition. However, andropause might be distinguished by a drop in hormone levels, specifically testosterone. The bodily changes occur gradually in men and may be accompanied by changes in attitude, mood, energy level, sex drive and physical agility.
Studies indicate this decline in testosterone can actually put one at risk for other health problems including heart disease and weak bones. Since andropause may occur during a period in life when many men begin to question their values, accomplishments and direction in life, it’s often difficult to realize these physical changes are related to more than just external conditions.
Unlike menopause, which generally occurs in women during their mid-40s to mid-50s, men’s “transition” may be much more gradual and span many decades. Attitude, psychological stress, alcohol, injuries or surgery, medications, obesity and infections can contribute to its onset.
Although a decline in testosterone levels will occur in virtually all men with age, 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.
Is This a New Phenomenon?
Yes and no. Andropause was first described in medical literature in the 1940s. But, the ability for physicians to diagnose it properly is fairly new. Sensitive tests for bioavailable testosterone weren’t available until recently, so andropause was underdiagnosed and undertreated for a long period. Now that men are living longer, there is heightened interest in andropause, which will help advance our approach to this important life stage.
We Have the Diagnostic Capability!
Another reason andropause has been underdiagnosed over the years is that symptoms can be vague and may vary among individuals. Some men find it difficult to admit there’s even a problem. And often, physicians do not think of low testosterone levels as a possible culprit. With new blood testing methods available, there is an increased interest in men’s aging. The comprehensive services and programs at Fountain of You help you be all you can be. Men haven’t always been proactive in their health, and we’d like you to take a healthier stance now.
Each comprehensive plan of care enables you to have a better understanding of your body and what you may be experiencing. We believe knowledge is power. Dedicate yourself to taking an active role in your health today.
Initial and Continued Physical and Laboratory Monitoring
Men aren’t always proactive in their health. However, the better you understand your body, the faster you notice changes and the quicker you can begin fighting back. At Fountain of You we draw a very extensive lab panel evaluating the thyroid, blood count, cholesterol, liver, kidneys, adrenals, nutritional labs, vitamin levels, growth hormone levels, testosterone levels and homocysteine levels to get a baseline level. In an initial 3 hour consultation with Dr. Zipper the patient learns all of his levels and what to do to optimize both the levels and his overall health.