Men don't go through menopause in the way that women do, where their hormones rapidly decrease within the span of a few years. However, men do experience decreased testosterone production during a more gradual period. The process, called andropause, sometimes mimics female menopause with its symptoms of flushing, insomnia and depression.
Signs
Weight gain, decreased libido and hair loss on the head, groin and the rest of the body are other signs of andropause.
Midlife Crisis
"Midlife crisis" is a term pinned to male menopause since there are men who experience an emotional crisis as they reach middle age. However, a man doesn't have to have his testosterone drop to have a midlife crisis.
Onset
According to MayoClinic.com, testosterone starts to drop in men after they turn 40.
Verification
A man needs to have a blood test done to confirm that his testosterone is low, since symptoms like deteriorating memory or reduced energy are also signs of aging.
MIsconceptions
Andropause doesn't always cause symptoms or discomfort; there are men who don't notice any particular problems related to this issue as they age.
Coping
A healthy diet and a regular exercise routine can relieve some effects of low testosterone. The medical community is at odds about whether testosterone replacement therapy is a safe and effective treatment for the condition.
Tags: