Mayo Clinic Asks: Is Male Menopause (aka "Andropause") Real?

Is "male menopause" real? Absolutely says the Mayo Clinic but the term is somewhat misleading because it is quite unlike the more dramatic female counterpart. In men, the hormone changes occur gradually, over a period of many years and the effects are subtle--often not noticed until later in life. For this reason, many prefer the term "andropause".

As men turn 40 their testosterone levels begin to decline gradually at a rate of about 1 percent a year though there is significant individual variation.

From the Mayo Clinic:

Signs and symptoms of low testosterone can include:

* Reduced sexual desire * Infertility * A decrease in spontaneous erections (such as during sleep) * Swollen or tender breasts (gynecomastia) * Loss of body and pubic hair * Small or shrinking testes * Height loss and thinning bones * Reduced muscle bulk and strength * Hot flushes and sweats

Other signs and symptoms can include:

* Decreased energy, motivation and self-confidence * Feeling sad or depressed * Poor concentration and memory * Sleep apnea or other sleep problems * A low red blood cell count (mild anemia) * Increased body fat * Diminished physical or work performance

If you have problems and think it might be andropause consult your doctor. There are treatments, including hormone replacement therapy. There are also alternative therapies including widely available supplements, but the Mayo Clinic notes that to date "none has been proved safe and effective for aging-related low testosterone."

One of the most important reasons to be up on andropause is that the symptoms can be something else entirely and some of these are potentially severe medical conditions including liver disease, kidney failure, or an overactive or underactive thyroid.

For additional information, Amazon link to Jed Diamond's book: Surviving "Male Menopause. A Guide for Women and Men"