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Andropause, sometimes referred to as male menopause, may have a mythic status due to many men's "don't ask , don't tell" unwillingness to acknowledge the condition. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), "male androgens progressively decline with age." This male hormone deficiency , andropause - or "male menopause" really exists.
Between the ages of 40 and 55, men can experience a condition similar to menopause due to a decline in male hormone (androgens) levels, primarily testosterone. Body changes occur gradually and may be accompanied by symptoms similar to those of menopause. Symptoms of male hormone deficiency include:
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Accelerated aging of the heart
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Changes in attitudes and moods
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Decreased physical agility
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Depression
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Erectile dysfunction
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Fatigue
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Lack of sex drive
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Loss of competitive edge
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Loss of energy
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Rapidly falling level of fitness
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Stiffness and pain in the muscles and joints
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Although andropause may demonstrate a low absolute level of total testosterone, it is better indicated by a deficiency of free testosterone, the form of testosterone that is most bio-available to the body. Triggers for andropause symptoms that add to the normal effects of aging seem to include:
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Excess alcohol use
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Inactivity and lack of exercise
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Infections
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Overweight and obesity
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Stress
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Vasectomy
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This form of male hormone deficiency is correctable by establishing baselines with the proper blood tests and using available drugs and nutritional supplements.
See our Compound for Male HRT section for more information on andropause treatments
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